Why does it take so long with cutting pad and Optimum Polish

zimmerDN

New member
I was trying to remove swirl marks on a Accord and Corvette with my DAS orange cutting pad. I did 3 very slow passes 2 times across a 2x2 area, took me about 15 - 20 mins. After the first time the marks were still very much there and after the second time it looked better but 50% of the marks remained. Why?



I applied enough polish I believe as there was a clear film of polish as i was working on the panel. I applied just enough pressure to see the PC starts to bog down. The pad wasn't caked because it was fresh. :think:
 
Optimum has a really long working time, and for this reason, I don't use it with PC - it just takes far too long to break down and I have to say I don't think the results are that great either. I prefer to use #80/#83 or SSR2.5.



Have yet to try it with a rotary though which is what I think it was developed for.



Ben
 
a.k.a. Patrick said:
Try the compound.........Its really more of a SMR anyway........



Totally agree, the polish is *very* mild to *me*. I find that the compound is about the same as DACP, maybe a *touch* stronger.



***DISCLAIMER**** I have only used it twice thus far.
 
I had a chance to use OCP on black, and while i agree it didnt have much bite, while looking closely at the paint with a flash light, it produced a really, extremely, clear and glossy finish.



I did the same thing with some other polishes and they were not as clear under direct light with my nose 2 inches from the paint.





Perhaps an IPA wipedown would make them all even, but it was interesting none the less.
 
Heres a little treat for those of you who like the Opt polishes....3 for the price of 2:

Take 2oz of Opt polish, add 2oz Opt Compound, mix thoroughly with each use. Now you have a light compound, and a heavier polish for those of you who have found its taking too much time to work.....And your regular Polish (for light needs) and Compound (for heavier needs).
 
Is OCP more PC-friendly than the OP? In that does it break down more easily? (I like that its supposed to leave a nice finish..I currently use SSR 2.5 and love it but wouldnt mind not having to follow up with a milder polish..)
 
Its as user friendly. You wouldnt follow up with OC though, OP would be the better choice, thats my routine......2.5 leaves such little to clean up anyway, and OP cleans that right up.....OC can be used as last stage polish also with the right technique and pads.....
 
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