Polish Build-Up on Foam Pads

Z28GSXRTim · 04-05-05, 10:23

I finally got a new backing plate for my PC. What a world of difference! Now it seems that my pads get caked up with polish after doing a few panels. I really don't want to have 2-3 pads dedicated to 1 formula for 1 car. My question is, what is the best way to remove this build-up and not harm the pad?

TIA

TOGWT · 04-05-05, 10:51

A word of caution when using foam pads, check the pad face for residue build-up, when loaded with dried product they have an abrasive action that could be detrimental to the paint finish. Clean residue from pads often with a soft horsehair or nylon brush, metal may damage the foam

Don't use too much product as this is wasteful and will also 'clog' the foam and if it's allowed to dry will become abrasive and could cause scratching
JonM

Prometheus · 04-05-05, 11:41

Usually, if i start seeing some build up on the surface of the pad, I take a little brush I have with stiff plastic brissles and *gently* run it across the pad. Going in all directions (or you can hold the brush still and just spin the pad) it will get the caked product off. Whatever you do, DONT LET IT DRY! You will still have product underneath, but once you can start seeing individual pores in the foam I stop. If you continue, you will not get much additional benefit in my experience. I usually try to do this after every 2-3 product applications. Hope this helps

Asonyexec · 04-05-05, 12:02

This happens to me with only certain products. I just take the extra time to remove the pad and rinse it out in the sink. After the rinse I will squeeze it out in a terry towel, slap it back on the PC and give it a few spins to dry it out.

It may take 2-3 panels before it cakes on but that's my process.

EnduroExpertFSR · 04-05-05, 12:26

this happens to me and i brush my pads out after every single panel

thestingrayboys · 04-05-05, 12:35

Hi all,
After having detailed for many years, my best advice for cleaning your pads is this: Wash them out and spin them dry. I find I like to use the pressure washer fanned out into a wide spray pattern. This wont damage the pad and is very thorough. I then spin it dry (horizontally) over top of a 5 gallon pail. Spin it slow at first, and then speed it up as it gets dryer! I like to use 3-4 pads per car so that I don't have to keep getting up to clean them. If you can get away with it, 3-4 pads will be enough to do the whole car. Now you can clean them together and they will be ready for the next job. If you are using Farecla, you will clean them a lot more often, but 2 pads are enough for sure. I hope this helps someone!

ps, if you don't have a pressure washer, run luke warm water in the sink and clean them under the running water. It takes longer, but still works.

thestingrayboys · 04-05-05, 12:40

Hi,
I should have added this to my last post. I personally dont like brushing the pads. It really does reduce the life of them dramatically. Water is the absolute best way to clean them! I am a huge fan of the Meguiar's foam and the Farecla foam pads. They are quite a bit more money than others, so I am very good at getting them to last.

Tip: As your "aggressive" pads get worn down, they become good "polishing" pads. The cell structures break down and are no longer able to cut properly. This can save you some money!

MichaelM · 04-08-05, 06:28

Definitely wash your pads after use, simple water is fine. I also use one of these every panel or so:

You can find it @ www.propercarecare.com

termigator · 04-08-05, 06:47

Is caking on the pads a big problem? It's never happened to me before. You might be using too much product. I'm not sure though. I slop it on the polish pretty liberally myself.

Z28GSXRTim · 04-08-05, 07:05

I've never had the problem until last weekend. I don't know if it was because I had a bad backing plate that wasn't holding the pad securely, or if I was using too much or too little.

BTW- I was using 3M 39009 and an orange power pad. When I get home, I'll see if I can find the picture of the pad to show you what it looked like.

BigLeegr · 04-08-05, 07:14

I brush mine out if there's just a bit of residue (differs depending on product). If I find that the brushing doesn't work, I use a dregreaser called Red Rocket (64oz. for 99¢!!!!) Works well...and CHEAP!!!