Confusion! (What's the correct speed!)

ktorres1120 · 06-15-08, 07:46

Ok so maybe I got confused because some people use a PC and some a rotary but what is the correct speed we should be using? I have the MAKITA # 9227C POLISHER

and I know i'm fairly new at this but I'm starting out on older beaters before ever working on anything with value.

So this thing has 6 speed settings and goes up to 3k. I've read people saying to go at #6 without keeping it in one place but then others say dont go past around 1,500, which would be setting 3.

Is there a difference because some people are using a porter cable and some a rotary? I used mine yesterday at setting 3 so around 1,500-1,600 and kept feeling the paint but it never really got warm. At most it was slightly warm but hardly at all. I read here that it should get warm, but not hot. Am I doing this at too low of a speed?

Sorry if this is all confusing and vague.

D&D Auto Detail · 06-15-08, 08:05

PC= speed 6. For a rotary, 1500rpms (speed 3 in your case) is fine for a beginner.

SuperBee364 · 06-15-08, 08:24

Most polishes will have a recommended speed range on the bottle. Most of the time, you'll get the best results if you stay within the polish manufacturers recommended speed range. And with some polishes, they just don't work at all unless you follow their speed guide. The 1Z pro line is notorious for that. They say 1k max speed, and they really mean it; anything faster and they flash over fast.

Start by following the recommended speeds, then make adjustments as necessary. Personally, I rarely go over 1.2k when using foam, and never over 1.8k with wool. But I'm also a whimp.

D&D Auto Detail · 06-15-08, 09:15

Great point SuperBee. I guess what I meant to say is as a beginner you want to keep the rpms lower. Id say 1500 tops is good for a beginner. But like Super said, every product is different. Menzerna says 1200- 1800.

ktorres1120 · 06-15-08, 09:19

Ok great thanks! I'll check the bottle to see what it says. I was working on an old Civic hood in white the other day and it had a lot of scratches, swirls and everything else on it. I seemed to get the swirls out but there are scratches that wont come off. Maybe need to wetsand. Thanks for the info!