~One man’s opinion / observations ~
I hope this doesn't confuse the issues but I have always tried to find out not just “How it works, but also “Why� it works. With that in mind I probably respond with more detail than some think is necessary. But try to write my responses in a way that helps the reader to understand not only "How" to do something, but "Why" they are doing it.
Backing Plates:
Backing plates are fitted with Velcro to enable attachment of Velcro backed foam pads. To change the backing plate use the flat spindle wrench PN 69200 supplied with the machine, to hold the centre spindle and rotate the backing plate counter-clockwise to loosen or clockwise to tighten, turn the backing plate no more than a quarter-turn once seated, do not over-tighten.
Lightweight moulded flexible Urethane backing plates are superior to the more ridged and heavier backing plates commonly used. The reduced weight doesn’t produce a high torque for the motor to have to overcome. It also eliminates any high heat build-up when transitioning over contours or when working close to the edge of panels.
Advantages of Flexible, Urethane Backing Plates:
·The Velcro material is moulded into the plate eliminating delaminating.
·Lightweight ensures that no unnecessary torque is applied to the motor
·The flexible edge reduces spontaneous heat build-up when transitioning from flat to contoured surfaces. These plates are recommended for compounding, polishing and finishing water-based clear coats.
·Vastly reduced heat transfer keeps motor heat from being transferred to the paint surface.
·Reinforced inner construction uses steel struts moulded into the centre hub for superior strength.
Always use a smaller sized Velcro backing plate then the Velcro foam pad you are using (i.e. a 6-inch Velcro backing plate and a 6.5-inch Velcro foam pad) Never use a Velcro backing plate that is larger then the Velcro backed foam pad.
A 5-inch diameter backing plate when used with a 6.5 -inch foam pad allows a 0.75-inch ‘safety’ margin’ between the edge of the backing plate and the foam pad. To ensure compatibility of fit with a Porter-Cable the post adaptor should be a 5/16th-inch-24 threaded shaft.
To centre the foam pad on to the PC backing plate, set it upside down with the Velcro backing plate facing up (this is easier if the side handle is attached). Using the tips of your fingers as spacers against the edges of the backing plate. You can centre it with near perfect results most of the time
Foam Pad Types:
A flat pad gives you even pressure throughout. It takes more pressure to stop the spinning of the PC, so your finish comes out more even. You may find they have a little better feel to them than the VC pads. This style pad is best for medium polishing and finishing work; however, the VC pad does a better job at cutting.
A curved edge pads are great for working in tight spaces or a surface with lots of waves and narrow strips-such as the "A" pillar. The polish is applied to the outer edge of the pad and the PC is used at more of an angle. With this method, you are halfway between a flat and VC pad with surface contact.
This pad can also be used flat. In this case, you would apply more polish on the peak between the curve and recess. This technique would be similar to a VC pad.
The variable contact pads provide focused pressure around the edges of the pad. They concentrate the polish within a smaller surface area. Theoretically, one would never really use the centre of a variable contact pad. Because of this focused pressure, this type of pad is ideal for cutting.
However, the user must be aware that this increased pressure can cause the PC to stall. The foam pad is attached to the machine with a Velcro backing plate; product is then applied to the foam pad.
1.Clean foam pads soon after use, if left saturated for extended periods of time the chemicals used in polish will cause the foam to soften and deteriorate
2.Extend the usable life of foam pads by periodic cleaning, removing of caked on or hardened products residue by lightly brushing with a horsehair detailing brush (do not use metal or nylon as this will tear the foam)
3.Don’t stack or leave foam pads were other objects could crease or deform them
4.Ensure foam pads are thoroughly dry before storing them in an airtight (baggies etc)
Foam Pad Application:
Cutting Pad (* Yellow)- a firm, high-density foam with a medium abrasive cutting action, for use with Machine Polish, Swirl Mark Remover, Autoglym Cutting Polish (Speed number 4-5)
Polish / Waxing Pad (*White)-a softer less dense foam composition with a light abrasive cutting action. For use with a Swirl Mark Remover, Pre-Wax Paint Cleaner, Klasse All-In-One, or Autoglym Super Resin Polish (Speed number 4)
Finishing Pad (*Gray)-an ultra-smooth foam that has no abrasive cutting ability, for use with Klasse High Sealant Gloss, Autoglym Extra Gloss Protection, Zanio Z-2 or Z-5 or a Glaze (Speed number 3-4)
The colour identification are those used by Classic Motoring Accessories (CMA) All manufactures of foam pads use a different colour to identify the abrasiveness or cutting ability of their foam pads.
Wool Pads:
Are made from ¾-ich, 100% natural lambs wool (do not use synthetic wool) are usually used to level a paint film surface with a machine polish (compound) or to apply a polish to large areas (diamond plate, Aluminum trailers, etc.)
~Hope this helps~
Experience unshared; is knowledge wasted…/ Jon
justadumbarchitect * so I question everything *
