Having an issue...

JL6er · 06-29-07, 10:55

Hey guys. So Ive been working with the Makita now for a few hours....and it definitely is bringing up the shine on an old truck, but Im noticing that the machine keeps trying to move itself - in whatever direction it wants- its its almost uncontrollable. It doesn't matter what speed i am on...But I haven't passed 1500 rpm.

This issue isn't so much of a "hopping" like many complain about...that hopping action only seemed to occur if there was not enough product on the pad.

Anyways, I certainly havent burnt any paint (yet), but I have no idea about holograms, considering the truck is flat white and its cloudy as hell out....ugh

Anybody know what im talking about regarding the machine trying to move in all different directions and it being very difficult to control??

Danase · 06-29-07, 10:57

What pads and size are you using?

tod071 · 06-29-07, 11:08

Keep the machine parallel to your surface. Sounds like its not parallel and uneven, causing the jumping. For me, most times the butt needs to be lifted. And yes, do make sure your pad has enough polish. Try spritzing it as well.

tomstin · 06-29-07, 12:00

What works for me is to shift the pressure slightly to the 12 - 3 o'clock position. That seems to make it easier for me to control where it goes versus a mind of it's own. Give that a shot.

JL6er · 06-29-07, 12:59

Thanks, tomstin, i'll attempt the 12-3 o'clock position.

Also, when polishing, do you guys always use that "Arc" method of motion or is it ok to move the polisher in different directions.

Because I know with my PC, I generally keep it moving in up and down motions, but often times, I just go all over the area in lots of other different paths without any problem. Since rotary is much different, I dont know if that even smart to attempt...

JL6er · 06-29-07, 01:01

Quote:

Originally Posted by Danase

What pads and size are you using?

Well, I *was* using the provided backing plate and a Meguiars 6 inch Red pad.
But I actually just received my new flexible backing plate, so im going to try that out next.

Do you think the rigid backing plate that the Makita came with may have contributed to this problem of mine?

WCD · 06-29-07, 08:02

I used to think that hopping was caused by too little product, but after attending Auto Int's program, it was too MUCH product that caused this--I know exactly what you are talking about. I never go above 1250 RPMs and move in a slow up and down and then across and sometimes a third motion diagnal. The last time I polished with my Makita I used much less product and it moved so much better across the paint..try a spot. Also, make sure yo are cleaning the pad about every 2-3 applications- AutoInt stressed that many guys think they can polish the entire car because it's the same pad and product, but even the pads get dirty quickly so run it with a brush that will release the dried product sending a dust cloud out in front of you- works fast and well.

Good luck, Rob

Dent's & Details · 06-29-07, 08:18

You said that it was an old truck. If it is a Single Stage paint it will be very griping.
If your pulling color off the car it's SS.

This will cause excess pulling and your buffer will be harder to control.

SVR · 06-29-07, 08:48

Yesterday I managed to do a 2 by 2 ft panel with one pea sized drop of blackfire 106FF
that's amazing. I was using three or four

JL6er · 06-30-07, 04:57

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dent's & Details

You said that it was an old truck. If it is a Single Stage paint it will be very griping.
If your pulling color off the car it's SS.

This will cause excess pulling and your buffer will be harder to control.

hmmm...this could very well be the explanation.
It is an old truck. And the flat, white, SS paint probably isn't helping matters much.

Thanks for that insight...makes sense.

Mo1nk · 06-30-07, 07:04

Quote:

Originally Posted by JL6er

hmmm...this could very well be the explanation.
It is an old truck. And the flat, white, SS paint probably isn't helping matters much.

Thanks for that insight...makes sense.

Have you ever used a floor polisher? Keep it flat, and let it float. What the poster said about too much downward pressure on the handle is a very common unintended initial tendency. And try to move it around with your upper body. Don't try to force it around with your hands.

Also, just curious, did you clay this car first?

JL6er · 06-30-07, 04:39

No, the truck was not clayed, and it was definitely in some pretty bad shape. But it actually came up pretty nicely.