Machine waxing - is anything really gained?

Danforz · 03-13-07, 09:08

From what I've read, the benefits of machine waxing include a more even layering plus less product used. Besides that, I haven't come across much more steering me in this direction... does anyone know any other reasons why one would apply wax via machine?

clnfrk · 03-13-07, 09:52

Simple... much faster and less effort. I just recently purchased an air powered 5" dual action sander from Northern Tool that I hook my pads onto and use for waxing. I used it for the first time yesterday and loved it! Fast and smooth. Also, its the perfect size to work around trim and such.

BigAl3 · 03-13-07, 09:57

for myself, using the pc and 4"pads to apply the lsp, is the way to go. you use less product, there's more even pressure being applied into the finish through out (able to work it into a thin coat, and removal is a breeze), and your hand/arm doesn't get tired...

smprince1 · 03-14-07, 04:47

For me, I can get a much thinner application of the LSP which makes removal easier. Seems more even also.

Danase · 03-14-07, 05:37

Quote:

Originally Posted by Danforz

From what I've read, the benefits of machine waxing include a more even layering plus less product used. Besides that, I haven't come across much more steering me in this direction... does anyone know any other reasons why one would apply wax via machine?

Basically what everyone else is saying is correct. You get even coverage, apply it faster, and a thinner layer which is easier to remove.

MichaelM · 03-14-07, 06:50

What applicators are you all using to apply by hand?

You can get very similar layers as a machine by using 6.5" flat foam finishing pads and velcro hand holders. Time should be similar as well, maybe a couple of minutes more by hand but not much.

Accumulator · 03-14-07, 10:42

For some reason I get thinner applications by machine with *waxes* but not with sealants

When I apply paste waxes by machine I get a slightly better finish and slightly better (more spherical) beading. Can't really verbalize what looks better about it but I think I see something. No, I don't think I'm just seeing what I want to see

I figure it's all those orbits-per-minute and a more uniform/thorough working of the wax down into the pores/micro-fissures of the paint. This seems especially true with "pastes that turn liquid" (e.g., #16) and "hard" pastes like 476S. And I suspect that the carrier agents flash off differently when applied by machine- the Cyclo is a pretty aggressive way to apply wax and I work it until it's almost gone (often using a pseudo-spitshine method where I work it until it's basically gone and then apply more).

And there's just something that I find subjectively satisfying about applying/removing wax via Cyclo