I'll try to chime in alittle here...
If the pad isnt spinning, your applying way too much pressure...but if you apply too much, the
UDM will sort of "bog" down...you can hear it in the motor...thats usually when the pad will stop spinning. Ive always learn to put about 10-15 lbs of pressure when polishing with my UDM.
Well I would first think 10 min...thats quite a long time...should take 1-3 min to break down...but there are variables there.
You will get some dusting...key word...'some' not a alot.
You need to build up your strength if you cant hold it with one hand...no offense, but that one arm reach will come in handy soon...you'll see! If you still cant manage, purchase the "OneGrip" over at showcardetailing dot com.(<---type that address in the URL box)
It helps relieve pressure off your hands...
Too much polish, maybe...if you put a full circle the first time...that should be enough to prime the pad...after that, you only need a couple dots to do a 1ftx1ft section.
I hope i was of some help...keep practicing though...you will find out what works best for you eventually...