Got the same toy last week. Put it through some tests this weekend. I'm using the two pads that came with the machine.
I'm very new at all this, so my opinion should mean nothing to you. I used a 3m Compound product on my 67 Firebird. I did the whole car today using the lighter yellow pad. I tried the heavier white pad earlier, and just my opinion that the yellow pad would leave less swirls.
I do have many years experience with Grinders and Polishers of all differnent sizes, just no experience with Polishing Paint.
The Makita feels well made, the speed adjustments are really nice. It does get a little heavy as you hold it over the middle of the hood, but I'm betting you guys are all used to that.
I'm waiting until later in the week to make at least one more pass on the car to try to remove all the swirls. I'm going to go try and find some finer pads to use.
I saw you say you are going to use 6" or was it 6 1/2". Either way, I did a quick search on the Edge Systems, and saw the adapter needed for the Makita. In that section there was no choice for a Pad that small. They were all 7" or above.
I just joined this forum, I'll be posting some stuff looking for tips.
Thanks in Advance.
Hef