[Phlogiston]

Sam, the solvents in any lacquer product partially melt the existing layer of material. This is more so on lacquer that is months old as compared to 40 years old. So the "coats" blend together or bond together. BUT the toner coat is VERY fragile and can be easily scratched. This is why I never sand a toner coat, not to mention the disaster it would bring as far as light and dark spots. Put on the toner and then add several clear top coats before doing anything else.