Rotary, 5-1/2-inch pads, low speeds

[Mary S]

Hi just curious if anyone has heard of this technique of buffing, using a rotary with 5-1/2-inch pads, speeds at a maximum of 900 RPM.

Given the way the rotary works, the innermost 5-1/2 inches is going to be cutting more slowly than the outer parts of a larger pad (7 to 8 inch).

This is the way I was told they taught the rotary at a particular training program.

I guess if I had any 5-1/2 inch pads I could try it and let you know what happens. All I have now are 4, 7, and 8.

It would seem to be rather non-aggressive, but maybe that would be good. I just can't picture how effective it would be, that you couldn't do more than use a finishing polish this way. You probably could't do any high-test correction at those speeds. But then, it would be pretty hard to burn through the paint too.

Anyone else heard of this or tried it?

[Mary S]

Re: Rotary, 5-1/2-inch pads, low speeds

I found this on auto detailing network. This is a good site, it has lots of articles by some of the big names in detailing.

http://autodetailingnetwork.com/

"Craig’s idea of using slower speeds with smaller flexible pads has revealed a much safer, easier way of refinishing paint with extremely high-end, professional results. The use of this new system will enable even the newest rookie to perform professional results on just about any paint finish. “The pads are getting smaller, the speeds are getting slower and thanks to Meguiar’s, the chemicals are getting more user friendly with greater results” states Craig.

The old way of using the high speed buffer, changing speeds for different pads, and the use of larger, dangerous cutting pads and hard backing plates has become a thing of the past. Using these new buffing techniques, pads and Meguiar’s chemicals Craig has perfected buffing without the worry of damaging paint. His new technique is getting unparalleled results on almost all paint finishes.

Using the rotary buffer at a slow speed of 1000 to 1200 rpm’s and the all new soft flexible backing plates, along with the choice of extremely small flexible pads, Craig has created a revolutionary new system that is sure to make the professional paint reconditioning expert excited.

High-speed buffing and paint reconditioning will never be the same again. Be sure to check out The Total Pros all-new High-Speed Buffing Techniques and we are confident you will soon see that paint finishing has definitely been made easy."

[Michael Stoops]

Re: Rotary, 5-1/2-inch pads, low speeds

You can use any size pad on a rotary, and you are spot on that the smaller the pad the less cut you'll get - all else being equal.

If the method you describe is the way a particular group likes to introduce people to the rotary, then so be it. We've run even 4" pads much faster than 900rpm though, especially when working to pull out sanding marks from a small area that a 7" or larger pad simply can't reach. As part of our Pro Headlight and Spot Repair Kit we introduced four different 4" pads and the backing plates needed to use them on either a rotary or D/A. The pads and backing plates are also sold separately. They're great for working on A-pillars, windshield surrounds on convertibles, or any narrow or tight spot where you just can't comfortably get a large pad.

[Mary S]

Re: Rotary, 5-1/2-inch pads, low speeds

You can use any size pad on a rotary, and you are spot on that the smaller the pad the less cut you'll get - all else being equal.

If the method you describe is the way a particular group likes to introduce people to the rotary, then so be it. We've run even 4" pads much faster than 900rpm though, especially when working to pull out sanding marks from a small area that a 7" or larger pad simply can't reach. As part of our Pro Headlight and Spot Repair Kit we introduced four different 4" pads and the backing plates needed to use them on either a rotary or D/A. The pads and backing plates are also sold separately. They're great for working on A-pillars, windshield surrounds on convertibles, or any narrow or tight spot where you just can't comfortably get a large pad.

I think you are right, this has to be just a way to safely get people accustomed to the rotary. He mentions using Meguiar's products in the article I quoted, now the Smart University is aligned with Smart Wax, and the product sounds similar (but pricier, and no volume quantities). Many vehicles don't need more correction than say 205 can give, but if they do, this isn't going to be aggressive enough, unless you are going to spend all day on it.

The 4" pads are great.