Questions from 1st time PC user

[ChiefRes]

I used my PC for the first time today (posted pics in the Click n' Brag.) Overall it went well, but I had some issues some of you can help me with.



1. How do you polish narrow areas like the A-pillar? I'm using 6.5 inch LC pads, and I didn't want to run up between the trim pieces in such a tight spot. I ended up doing spots like this by hand with OP. Should I tape up the trim and go for it?



2. Should I be going to speed 6 on every panel? I would start on 3, work the product in a bit, then speed up to around 5 until the product was almost invisible. It seemed like speed 6 was a bit much, but I was never sure that I was "working" the product enough. I was a little scared to work it in too much and start buffing it dry.



3. I used AJT as an LSP, and it went on so easy. Almost too easy. Should I let it sit a bit before buffing it out? I would wait maybe 30 seconds then buff it out. If this stuff provides any protection at all, I'm never waxing again! Just too easy.



4. What's a good product to clean up rubber trim pieces after you get polish on them? Chrome pieces? I've got some 303, but I didn't try it. I need something to clean up the trim.



5. Finally, do I need to "freshen up" the car any when I wash it now? Should I hit it with a coat of AJT after every wash or is this overkill? How many times per year do you guys do a full machine polish? Seems like once or twice would be plenty depending on driving conditions.



Thanks for the help!! I couldn't have done this without the great info found on this board!:woot:

 

[bsdsys]

I used my PC for the first time today (posted pics in the Click n' Brag.) Overall it went well, but I had some issues some of you can help me with.



1. How do you polish narrow areas like the A-pillar? I'm using 6.5 inch LC pads, and I didn't want to run up between the trim pieces in such a tight spot. I ended up doing spots like this by hand with OP. Should I tape up the trim and go for it?

I would deffinately tape things up, makes cleanup much easier and gives you more time to concentrate on completeing the detail. I would get you a set of 4in. pads and that would work great on those areas.

2. Should I be going to speed 6 on every panel? I would start on 3, work the product in a bit, then speed up to around 5 until the product was almost invisible. It seemed like speed 6 was a bit much, but I was never sure that I was "working" the product enough. I was a little scared to work it in too much and start buffing it dry.

Sounds/Looks like you were doing fine. When I use the PC I always spread the product in a 2x2 area on about 2-3 then kick it up to 5-6 to really work things in and get the best results. As long as you put enough product on and pay attention you will be fine.

3. I used AJT as an LSP, and it went on so easy. Almost too easy. Should I let it sit a bit before buffing it out? I would wait maybe 30 seconds then buff it out. If this stuff provides any protection at all, I'm never waxing again! Just too easy.

Haven't had any experience with AJT but different waxes and sealants act differently to how long you should wait to remove. As for the protection, there are some good carnuba waxes out there that do provide good protection and some comparable to sealants but in general for protection, go for a sealant.

4. What's a good product to clean up rubber trim pieces after you get polish on them? Chrome pieces? I've got some 303, but I didn't try it. I need something to clean up the trim.

I have been happy with using Klasse AIO to clean rubber trim and apply your choice of protectant/dressing on there afterwards. I have heard many good things about Poorboys Trim Restore so that might be something to consider. I am about to place a big order in a couple weeks and that will deffinately be on my to try list.[/QUOTE]

5. Finally, do I need to "freshen up" the car any when I wash it now? Should I hit it with a coat of AJT after every wash or is this overkill? How many times per year do you guys do a full machine polish? Seems like once or twice would be plenty depending on driving conditions.

As for the longevity of the AJT, I can't answer that but as far as waxes goes but like I said before some are better than others and you need to try things out and see what makes you happy. In general waxes will last a couple weeks maybe longer depending on driving/storage conditions as you already stated and sealants will generally last 2-3 months. [/QUOTE]



About doing a complete polish on the car. This goes back to the driving/storage conditions of the car. Keep the car clean and maintained on a weekly basis and practice good washing techniques. This will help the longevity of the sealant/wax in it's self. Apply your wax every 2-3 weeks and apply a sealant every 2-3 months unless you like me and try out things on a weekly basis and are always finding new things to use. Hope this helps.



Bryan

 

[ChiefRes]

Thanks alot, Bryan. Taking care of the car the last few years really made the machine polish today not so difficult. I formally used P21S exclusively, so the sealant thing is a new ballgame for me. I think I will pick up some 4'' pads and the Klasse AIO. The trim on the Acura is by and large chrome, but there is still a fair amount of black rubber around the doors and moonroof. I think I'll tape next time for sure!

 

[bsdsys]

You will find alot of uses for Klasse AIO. Great product. You might also look into buying a waterless wash like PB's S&W and grabb some S&G while your at it. Both great products and worth every penny of it.

 

[Broom]

You will find alot of uses for Klasse AIO. Great product. You might also look into buying a waterless wash like PB's S&W and grabb some S&G while your at it. Both great products and worth every penny of it.

On this note, can one use PC using the Klasse AIO and SG? How did you apply it - spray it on? It seems hard to calculate considering the AIO and SG are very soluble and not as thick as others.

 

[sixty7mustang22]

I generally never bump the PC all the way up to 6. I usually stick to 5 or right inbetween 5 and 6.



As for the small areas, you need to get some 4" spot pads. They are great for small areas on the body, but they are also great for polishing headlights.