level sanding

[SKBarbour]

I'm about to start level sanding the finish on my OM. It's waterbased KTM 9. Looking for suggestions on sandpaper grade and technique. On the test panel I did, I used 400 grit paper to level and worked up from there to polish. For leveling, I sanded with the grain. When I switched to the micromesh to polish, I sanded in a circular motion. Sound about right? I know this is probably basic stuff, but I want to make sure I'm using the best methods.

[tippie53]

I use nitro and that is a 2 layer spray so if you have a good bit of orange peel 400 wet maybe only to get 1/2 through the orange peel. if I am just finish level 800 wet can be pretty good. Best advice is start higher grit you can always go down a grade
john

[SKBarbour]

Thanks to all. I will try starting with 600 after scraping the drips ( i brushed ). I'll let you all know how it goes.

[naccoachbob]

I looked around for some 320, 400, and 600 grit online for wet/dry sanding. The only place I found was Amazon who gets their paper from Online Industrial Supply and the paper box says it's from USA1 Abrasives. The 320 was P320, not USA 320. The P320 is a European grade - which is equal to ANSI (american) grit about 240. It's clearly labeled on the back as P320, whereas the 400 and 600 do not have the P.
Do be careful that you don't mix those up.
The 400 and 600 I haven't really compared with other paper that I had, but will, to make sure I'm not scratching the heck outta my stuff.
I wanted to buy 50 sheets vice 5 sheets, since I go thru the stuff badly. Caveat emptor.
Bob

[tippie53]

you can find this a an auto parts store