Ordered My 1st PC -- Just Jump Right In Using It?

E55 · 12-31-05, 11:54

I'm new to detailing (started in mid August when I bought my 1st "nice" new car). I knew I would get a PC eventually, I was just waiting for the right time. Well that time came a few minutes ago whren I received email from Autopia saying that they had a 2-day only 25% off sale. I couldn't pass it up, so I placed my order.

But, now I'm wondering whether I can just start using it immediately on my new car? Assuming I'm careful about which pads/polish I use, do I need to worry that I'll screw my paint up somehow? Should I practice on something 1st? My wife's car ? One of our cats

?

I'd appreciate some advice for a PC virgin regarding 1st usage. TIA.

Oh, yeah, there is a photo of my new Beast below (if I did it right). Sorry for the poor quality, but it was taken with my cell phone.

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Hook

cwcad · 12-31-05, 12:05

That is a good deal! Should have everything that you need. Whatever product that you choose just use the PC slowly and carefully. Never let the PC stay in one place. Use small amounts of product. keep your pads clean. Try to use as little pressure as you can to get the job done.

One more thing...have fun doing it!

Setec Astronomy · 12-31-05, 12:39

That's good advice from cwcad, another couple of things; make sure the car is clean so that you don't get any grit, etc. trapped between the pad and paint, and think about masking more things off than you would when working by hand (like throwing an old bed sheet over the windshield when working on the hood to prevent splatter).

Sarcazmo · 12-31-05, 12:44

I jumped in and did my xB. While not as nice as your car, I found that I would have to try VERY hard to screw up my paint.

Just make sure you prep the surface I.E. clay, and start with less than you need. For example, if the swirls look bad, start with a mild polish/pad and then if you need something heavier, go heavier.

wickedwrx02 · 01-02-06, 01:26

Nice car! We'll be learning together I just placed my order too!

Neothin · 01-02-06, 02:11

Don't be afraid to use the PC. It's a machine that can give amazing results safely. Be smart about using it, even though you haven't used a power buffer before you're going to have an idea about what might hurt things and what might not. Just be smart and if you have any questions, someone is always online here lol.

E55 · 01-02-06, 02:35

Quote:

Originally Posted by wickedwrx02

Nice car! We'll be learning together I just placed my order too!

I'll return the compliment about the nice car

I must admit I'm nervous about screwing up my paint. But, I have time to read more, as I don't expect to have a free day when it's nice enough to do the entire process or a while yet ...

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Hook

docker · 01-02-06, 02:47

Just Do It !

I, too, just started using a PC and love it. I was afraid of hurting my car that I left the thing in the box for a couple months before getting up the nerve to use it on my new cars. I laugh at how chicken I was...

Anyway, squirt some polish on that puppy and let'r rip... follow some of the caution that others are throwing out to ya, follow your instincts grasshopper, and you'll be a champ in no time.