Part 4:
FINAL POLISHING:
Once you’ve satisfactorily removed surface defects, prepare for final polishing. Install a
finishing pad (my preference is the Meguiar’s W9006 SoftBuff® tan pad). Prime the pad
(as previously recommended). DO NOT USE AN ABUNDANCE OF PRODUCT. For
3
polishing, a primed pad is essential to satisfactory results, while LESS working liquid
(rather than MORE) delivers the best finish. Use a slow to medium speed setting (1.5-
4.0/G100). You cannot overuse M105, as long as the pad stays moist (and it shouldn’t
scour).
Once your working cycle is done, evaluate the surface. If you feel the need to repeat
the polishing process, use the following method (random-orbital ONLY): Set the pad
into a microfiber towel, and turn on the machine. The microfiber will remove a majority
of the residue, oils, and paint from the pad. USE CAUTION- Make sure the towel does
not get caught in the drive mechanism!
Repeat the same process at least once more, but use a bit MORE pressure and even
LESS product during your second application. Some paints yield even better results
when the pad is simply cleaned, and NO ADDITIONAL PRODUCT is applied. There is a
learning curve involved when attempting to final polish paint with this method. Take the
time to give this step a chance. When done correctly, the final finish should be
stunning.
Occasionally, the surface may need an application of polish to further refine the finish.
M82 Swirl-Free Polish or M205 Ultra Finishing Polish have both performed well for
me.
When using Meguiar’s M82 Swirl-Free Polish:
This product features diminishing abrasives.
To apply: First, set the machine speed to a slow speed setting. As a starting point, use
a 3.0 setting for the G100/PC/UDM, or a 1.0 setting for the G110/220. Next, install a
fresh finishing pad (such as the Meguiar’s W9006 6.5â€� SoftBuffâ„¢ Finishing Pad) and
properly prime it. Allow the product to soak into the pad for approximately one minute.
Apply an adequate amount of polishing liquid to the pad (a thin circle of liquid applied
near the outer edge of the pad’s face, or an X pattern crossing the face will suffice).
Turn the machine on, and apply. Adjust buffer speed and downward pressure to a level
that allows the pad to rotate 1 to 3 times per second. Since this product features
diminishing abrasives, use less downward pressure as the working cycle advances.
When using Meguiar’s M205 Ultra Finishing Polish:
This product features non-diminishing abrasives.
To apply: First, set the machine speed to a medium speed setting. As a starting point,
use a 4.0 setting for the G100/PC/UDM or a 2.0 setting for the G110/G220. Next, install
a fresh finishing pad (such as the Meguiar’s W9006 6.5â€� SoftBuffâ„¢ Finishing Pad) and
properly prime it. Allow the product to soak into the pad for approximately one to two
minutes. Then, apply small drops of polish directly to the pad and massage in thoroughly
(typically, 5 to 7 half-inch drops will suffice). Turn the machine on, and apply. Adjust
buffer speed and downward pressure to a level that allows the pad to rotate 3 to 6 times
per second. Since this product features non-diminishing abrasives, consistent downward
pressure should be used throughout the application cycle.
Kevin Brown
the end