Starting out...

[mdd05]

Hi,
I just got a Porter Cable 7424 and am looking to find the most appropriate setup for me. Does anyone have recommendations on which pad I should get as the second pad so that I don't need to use the same pad for the polish and the wax. Also, which polish, wax and clay bar should I get?

It will be used for a new dark colored car (sparkling graphite). I haven't got the car yet, so I don't know if there will be much damage yet, but let's assume there will be very little.

So far I think I should use #80 as a polish and probably #20 or #26 for the wax/sealant. The tool came with a single pad, but I am not really what type it is. I think I go with the consumer quik clay detailing system.

I'd like to stick to a 3-step clay, polish, wax system if possible. Any suggestions?

[farmboy]

The pad that comes with the PC is nothing great. You should call meguiars and order a backing plate and a 3-pad deal. The backing plate and pads are quick change with velco. The pad kit comes with 2 polishing and 1 finishing pad. This will cost you around $50.

I will recommend Quik Clay, #80 and #21 for the 3-step. It will look great.

[Michael Stoops]

Listen well to Farmboy, his advice is excellent. Use one of the yellow polishing pads with the #80 and a tan finishing pad with #21 and you should be loving the sparkle in the graphite!

Work the 80 with around 15 lbs of pressure on speed 5 until it starts to look almost clear on the finish, then wipe it off - don't let it dry! Apply the 21 using speed 3 and spread it nice and thin. Pop on your second polishing pad, wrap it in a microfiber bonnet, and remove the 21 on speed 5. Actually, a burgundy cutting pad is best as a base for the microfiber bonnet, but you can get away with the polishing pad.

This combination on your color will look stunning. It does on my Graphite Metallic car.

[mdd05]

Thanks

Thanks for the input, it's very reassuring. I'm really excited about receiving my product (and new car) and giving it a try. I'm a little concerned about polishing away my clear-coat with the #80. Can I use it say once or twice a year, and just do a clay and wax the other times?

[searle]

#80 is actually for removing swirls and/or slightly damaged surface marks. #82(machine) or #09(hand) are even milder and you might want to make them your regular clean/polish, and reserve #80 for spring/fall or when you actually have real swirls to remove.

If you dont have any visible marks to remove, you might want to go even milder with consumer line DC1 paint cleaner.

But, #80 should still be fine for periodic use (but not regularily every week or even every month). Just my personal opinion.