Using a D/A Polisher Over These Surfaces...?

[ChevyNick]

Hey guys, first off, I know this is more machine related but for the sake of many more views in this forum, I thought I would post it here. If this is a problem please let me know and I will not post D/A related questions here.

Alright guys, so I recently got a GG6 and bought the Meguiars backing plates and pads (yellow and black). My main reason I bought the polisher was to get rid of the swirl marks left by the good 'ol Drive Thru Car Wash... which might I say I haven't been through one in 4 months!!

Here are my 3 questions:

#1, is there any precautions I need to take when polishing over a stamping like this?



#2, should I worry about running the buffer over decal stickers and the pin stripe sticker? I taped the pin stripe off today as I wasn't sure.



#3, does anyone have any tips of taking close ups of red paint? I consider myself a pretty tech savvy person with cameras and all, but I cannot for the life of me get a close up picture of the paint (usually turns orange). I am thinking it could be because I am in the garage and the lighting is not ideal? And there is just no reflection in this picture unlike in reality where you can see the shelving units and each item from across the garage on this panel. I'm using my moms Samsung L200, maybe I should try my GoPro Hero HD video camera lol??

Thank you in advanced for the help guys.

[davey g-force]

Re: Using a D/A Polisher Over These Surfaces...?

Regarding the raised lettering, decals and pinstriping - I would tape those up and then do those areas by hand if they need it.

[Bjkearns]

Re: Using a D/A Polisher Over These Surfaces...?

Regarding the raised lettering, decals and pinstriping - I would tape those up and then do those areas by hand if they need it.

I agree that is going to be the safest route

try taking the pictures outside in natural light

[greg0303]

Re: Using a D/A Polisher Over These Surfaces...?

I would cover those stampings/ decals/ emblems with masking tape as well to prevent accidental damage. It only takes a second to run over some areas unintentionally and a repair cost may be quite big.

[Michael Stoops]

Re: Using a D/A Polisher Over These Surfaces...?

We'll back everyone up on the suggestion to tape off the trim, decals, stamping, etc just to play it safe. While you shouldn't have any real issues going over the stamping with the DA you still don't want to get overly aggressive during repeated buffing sessions on them. But if you find you need to give them a once over, even at speed 5 but with reduced pressure, you shouldn't have any issues at all. We would definitely ease up on the pressure though and certainly not dwell on those edges for long periods. When it comes to applying your wax, of course, you're totally fine taking the tape off the decals (as long as they're glossy, which they appear to be) and the stampings and hitting them with a finishing pad and your wax. You may have a bit of clean up along the edge of the decals, but a little bit of quick detailer and a soft brush should take care of it quickly - just don't load the wax on real heavy and then wait 6 months to clean up around the decals.