3M Rubbing Compound 05973 Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The 3M Rubbing Compound 05973 is a liquid abrasive designed for paint correction and auto restorations. It is formulated to efficiently remove sand scratches, stains, and surface blemishes from various paint finishes.

Image: Front view of the 3M Rubbing Compound 05973 bottle, showing the 3M logo, product name, and volume.

Key Features:

• Effective Formula: Helps remove sand scratches, stains, and surface blemishes.
• Efficient: High cut rate formulation designed to reduce compounding time.
• Versatile: Safe for use on clearcoats, lacquer, and enamel paint finishes.
• Economical: A high-performance compound suitable for value-focused shops.

2. Safety Information and Warnings

WARNING: This product may cause eye and skin irritation. Read carefully all cautions on the side/back panel of the product container before use.

For industrial/occupational use only. This product is not intended for consumer sale or use. It must be selected and used in compliance with applicable health and safety regulations and standards (e.g., U.S. OSHA, ANSI), as well as all product literature, user instructions, warnings, and other limitations.

Image: Back view of the 3M Rubbing Compound 05973 bottle, displaying detailed warnings and instructions in multiple languages.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid breathing dust, vapors, mist, or gas. Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including eye protection (safety glasses or goggles) and gloves, during handling and application.
• In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. Get medical attention if irritation persists.
• In case of skin contact, wash with plenty of soap and water. If skin irritation occurs, get medical attention.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not ingest. If swallowed, do not induce vomiting. Get medical attention immediately.

3. Preparation and Application

Surface Preparation:

Ensure the surface to be treated is clean, dry, and free of loose dirt, wax, or contaminants. For best results, wash the vehicle thoroughly and dry it before compounding. Mask off any trim or areas not to be compounded to prevent accidental contact.

Application Instructions:

1. Shake the product container well before use to ensure proper mixing of the compound.
2. Apply a small amount of 3M Rubbing Compound 05973 directly to the paint surface or onto a compounding pad.
3. Machine Application: For optimal results, use an electric buffer (1800-2000 RPM) equipped with a 3M compounding pad or a 3M white foam compounding pad. Work on a small section at a time, applying even pressure.

Image: A person using a rotary polisher with a white pad on a car's surface, demonstrating the removal of sand scratches and blemishes.
4. Hand Application: Apply with a clean, soft cloth or applicator pad. Rub in a circular motion with firm, even pressure.
5. Continue compounding until the desired level of defect removal is achieved. The high cut rate formulation helps reduce the time required for compounding.


Image: A person using an orbital polisher on a dark car's fender, illustrating the efficient application of the compound to reduce compounding time.

6. Wipe off any excess compound residue with a clean microfiber cloth.
7. Inspect the treated area. If necessary, repeat the process or move to the next section.

Image: A silver car, illustrating that the compound is safe for various automotive and industrial paints, including clearcoats, lacquer, and enamel finishes.

4. Storage and Maintenance

Store the 3M Rubbing Compound 05973 in its original container, tightly sealed, in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Protect from freezing and direct sunlight. Keep away from incompatible materials.

Ensure the cap is securely fastened after each use to prevent evaporation and contamination.

5. Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Compound Drying Too Quickly: If the compound dries on the surface before it can be worked, try working in smaller sections or slightly dampening the pad (do not saturate). Avoid direct sunlight or hot surfaces during application.
• Holograms/Swirl Marks: These can occur from improper technique or using an overly aggressive pad/compound combination. Ensure even pressure and proper machine speed. Follow up with a finer polish if necessary.
• Residue Remaining: If residue is difficult to remove, ensure you are using a clean microfiber cloth. A quick detailer spray can assist in wiping away stubborn residue.

6. Product Specifications

7. Manufacturer Information and Support

This product is manufactured by 3M. For additional product information, technical data sheets, or safety data sheets, please visit the official 3M website or contact 3M directly.

Manufacturer: 3M

Website: www.3M.com

For assistance with product selection and use, consult your on-site safety professional, industrial hygienist, or other subject matter expert.