3M™ Cavity Wax Plus

A: 3M™ Cavity Wax Plus Applicator Wands are designed to last for multiple uses. After each use, simply invert the can and spray into a clean towel to clear excess material from the wand.

A: As a collision repair shop, there is no way to replicate the complex multi-bath e-coating processes that OEMs use to protect against corrosion. Furthermore, common repair processes such as grinding and welding will compromise the e-coat applied by the OEM. This makes the proper application of cavity wax critical for protecting against internal corrosion and costly comebacks.

All automotive OEMs recommend applying corrosion protection material to internal and unprotected panels following repair and replacement procedures.

A: 3M™ Cavity Wax Plus was tested according to ASTM B117-97 specifications – a test where metal samples treated with Cavity Wax Plus were subjected to 1500 hours of continuous exposure to salt fog in a controlled corrosive environment. These treated panels showed no significant corrosion.

Also, 3M™ Cavity Wax Plus features a thick but non-hardening formula that will not chip, crack or peel and adheres to surfaces regardless of orientation. This material is self-healing, meaning it adapts as the metal in the vehicle expands and contracts. This maintains a protective film regardless of environmental conditions on the outside of the vehicle for reliable coverage that lasts.

A: In accordance with nearly all OEMs, 3M recommends applying at least three coats of Cavity Wax Plus to all unprotected metal surfaces. This ensures the self-healing material will provide adequate coverage for the life of the vehicle.

Another helpful guideline for using 3M™ Cavity Wax Plus is to estimate approximately. ¼ can per standard quarter panel, ¼ can per door panel, and less than half of a can for a lift gate.

A: The 24” and the 34” wands included in the 3M™ Cavity Wax Applicator Wand Kit feature small applicators built in at the ends which distribute the material evenly in a 360-degree radius. This ensures coverage on all sides of the cavity, regardless if you are able to visually inspect it. The additional 8” wand included in the kit delivers a powerful stream that is excellent for flooding and sealing joints.

A: 3M™ Cavity Wax Plus has been tested in environments near spray booth application areas with no effect on the painting application process. It has also been tested with no adverse effects on freshly painted panels that have been properly baked following paint company guidelines. If you anticipate the cavity wax will remain in contact with cured paint for an extended period, you should test it first in an inconspicuous area or mask off to prevent potential damage to the finish.
To clean cavity wax from paint, it is best to wipe off the surface using a mild solvent such as mineral spirits or a VOC-approved cleaner. Air dry paint system results may vary.

A: 3M™ Cavity Wax Plus should be applied after the paint repair has been completed and during the final assembly process. This ensures access to areas that may not be accessible later.