Rubbing compound on tank...trying to get some surface scratches out used rubbing compound...got worse any ideas...

 

If you get through the clear coat, you will need to have the tank repainted. Rubbing compound is pretty aggressive.

I would try a good cleaner wax first. If that won't do, Meguiar's Swirl Remover with electric 1200 rpm polisher. If it still won’t come out, use rubbing compound with an electric 1200 rpm polisher only as a last resort. You stand a good chance of going through the clear when you start buffing with rubbing compound.

Doug

 

Yeah, regular rubbing compound (you know the stuff in the green can) is too agressive for clearcoats. You might try some of the Mequires liquid compounds, but if you've ground down into the color, then you're gonna have to either live with it, or get it re-painted/clearcoated. Hopefully it wasn't a $3K custom painted tank.