Dumb question about 4" pads

03Black1.8t · 07-08-05, 06:32

I just received some 4" pads from TOTL. Does anyone every use these over the 6" pads. I find it harder to concentrate over a smaller area because the entire pad is not loaded fully. Seems like the 4" pad loads better and you can see where the product is going?

a.k.a. Patrick · 07-08-05, 07:20

Just sounds like your not use to the 6"-7" pads......The 4" pads are more or less used for problematic areas and situations, not really for entire detailing jobs.

JustinTRW · 07-08-05, 08:11

I use 4" pads for the entire car often, as it allows the PC's power to be concentrated. The smaller pad also accepts more pressure before the pad begins to bog down, which means you can generate more heat. IMO it's much more effective method.

The first reason I switched to a 4" pad and 3.5" backing plate was that my Elise hardly has a flat surface on the entire body. The smaller, flexible pad allows the buffer to move more freely and conform to the curves. It's easier to get into tight spaces.

Another benefit I've noticed is that when applying LSPs with a finishing pad, you don't waste a lot more product than you would with a regular applicator.

After becoming comfortable with the smaller pads, I started using it on my sedan, and that has gone well too.

Haven't found any disadvantages yet. Perhaps you can do large panels faster with a larger pad, and perhaps more evenly, but it hasn't bothered me. Open to hearing opinions though.

- J

Nick M · 07-09-05, 05:18

I use them more over my 6" pads and prefer the smaller pad on the PC for the same reasons as JustinTRW above.

Applying LSP's is a breeze if I'm not in the 'apply by hand' mood

MorBid · 07-09-05, 09:52

I have some of those pads from TOL and use them alot on my Audi A4. They come in handy on pillars, bumpers, trunk lid any place a 6" or bigger pad either won't fit or isn't as effective.

mtwedt · 07-09-05, 10:10

I use mine for the tighter areas on the car. I also use them with a short nap MF bonnet to buff the trim on my CR-V after applying VM to it. I had at least 10 weeks of deep black low gloss trim in Oregon rain on a garaged daily driver using this technique. I think they are also superb for focusing the power of the PC on specific defects in the finish, ie,,,localized scratches, etc... I have never regretted my investment in these pads and backing plate. They also attach to the Wolfgang Polishing Pal and I would imagine the one just out from Pinnacle. I also consider this one of the best purchases I have ever made.

the other pc · 07-09-05, 08:32

The only real disadvantage to using 4” pads on an entire car is that it would normally take far longer than with 6” pads.

But, as you well know, the Elise is a very small car with practically no flat surfaces and lots of weird contours. If the 4” pads work better for you stick with them.

PC.

Alfisti · 07-09-05, 09:05

Like some of the others, I use the 4" pads for tight areas and spot repairs on deeper scratches/marring. They can do almost rotary-like polishing.

I have no problems using the 6" pads (most are actually 6.5 - 7") and I simply don't have the time to spend on the smaller pads on large areas.

If the larger pads are a problem then try using true 6" pads, like the SFX 6" which feel much smaller and still allow you to generate concentrated heat/pressure.