Rotary and smaller sections/panels

Ern · 03-21-08, 07:37

When you guys are using your rotary, how do you go about working on very small sections or panels? Im talking about areas that a 6.5" pad wont fit. Do you hase 4" pads? Ive seen areas where 4" pads wont fit.

Invigor · 03-21-08, 08:41

AT403MCK, Kit, Polisher, Micro, 3", 5 pcs.

these guys are cool beans!

Ern · 03-24-08, 06:39

Wow. $200. Anyone else care to chime in?

deathlok · 03-24-08, 06:46

4" inch pads would be just fine. I have found also some smaller (here in Greece). For even tighter you should rely on your hands :P

Twista616 · 03-24-08, 07:04

3" pads and a rotary isnt the greatest idea...especially in tight areas...and those tight areas are more than likely on expensive cars...lambos, ferraris...ect. If I cant fit a 4inch pad, Ill usually use my hands...if that doesnt work...ill improvise!

Ern · 03-24-08, 09:44

4 inch pads could scare me on the rotary. Ill give it some work on my test panels. I just ask because around fenders and such there are lips or small areas around doors or door sills.

2KLS1 · 03-24-08, 10:50

^^^Why would it scare you?

a73elkyss · 03-24-08, 11:28

I've been reading up on different machines/models/brands within Autopia before I make my purchase. But while looking over different web sites I did see a small 3 inch model Random Orbital machine.

How about Professional 3" Random Orbital from Griots Garage

I've never used this machine or brand, but would be interested in what others think?

raadkins16 · 03-24-08, 12:42

I have been using my Hitachi rotary more recently and decided to dedicate it to the large areas and less cury tight spots I have on my cars. Since I am new to the rotary I did not want to take the chance. I pull out my PC with 4 inch pads for all the tight areas as it is a bit safer (you still need to be careful) and can really do some great correction. I feel better about this. This works great for the weekend warrior or enthusiast who has no time constraints. Obviously pro's have the experience and need to get it done quicker. Many would say I should learn to use the rotary properly and do it all the tight spots as well, but just do what works best for you and keeps the paint as safe as possible!

Deisel Weisel · 03-24-08, 01:17

Newbie question: why are smaller pads less safe than bigger pads?

2KLS1 · 03-24-08, 02:11

Quote:

Originally Posted by Deisel Weisel

Newbie question: why are smaller pads less safe than bigger pads?

Well with a PC you're applying more pressure with a smaller pad even if you're pushing down with the same amount of force as with a bigger pad since the contact area with the panel is smaller. With a rotary I've actually read the opposite, smaller pads are safer.

Twista616 · 03-24-08, 02:28

Quote:

Originally Posted by 2KLS1

Well with a PC you're applying more pressure with a smaller pad even if you're pushing down with the same amount of force as with a bigger pad since the contact area with the panel is smaller. With a rotary I've actually read the opposite, smaller pads are safer.

Yes and No. No matter what your using, RO or Rotary, the smaller the pad the more harmful it is. With both the RO and Rotary, its takes less force the make the 4" pad spin a full rotation. Less force = more rotations. With more rotations, the heat created is much greater because the surface area the pad touches is smaller. Its hard to explain without showing...

Give it a try on a test panel...use a 4" pad and a 6.5" pad, hold it in one spot for a certain amount of time and see how hot each one gets. The 4" will probably burn thru and be VERY hot.