UDM, 1st time usage...

s8nv2 · 08-05-07, 10:01

I purchased a UDM last week and was able to use it this weekend. A big thanks to Lynn who sent me a replacement backing plate, as my unit did not ship with one. Thankfully I got it on Saturday.

I've never used a machine to polish or was before, so this was an interesting experiment.

I used NXT Wash w/ a Sonus mit, Claymagic Claybar, Sonus 1, 2, and 3 polishes, and topped it with Megs #21 sealant. I have to say the machine was louder than I expected... but it was nicely balanced. I did notice at high speeds 5-6 the machine vibrated quite a bit. To the point where my hand went numb. Also the power switch thing got a little annoying. I was aware of the problem, but I did turn the machine on by accident a few times. There was no product on the pad so I didn't get any sling. It was mainly when I was picking the machine up after I had wiped/buffed down an area. It was an annoyance but it wasn't that horrible.

My car has *bad* red paint. Namely surface oxidation on the hatch, and some minor bits showing up on the rear QP's. Then again it's 13yr old neglected [before I purchased] paint. I was apprehensive to really get too aggressive w/ the polish #1 polish and the orange pad. As I progressed along w/ the polishing steps and got familiar with the machine I finally got the hang of it. I have to say proper lighting helps... at 1st I was using *way* too much product. Eventually I got the hang of it and let the machine do a lot of the work for me. Through all the steps I definitely tackled a bit of the oxidation. It's definitely a lot less visible. Next time around I'll definitely do a better job... especially with use of the #1 polish.

I was happy with all the products that I used. I was definitely happy with the #21. It was very very easy to work with. It reminds me a lot of Megs #26. Next wash I'll probably do a quick wash, QD, and then top it with #26.

I know the UDM is supposed to be better than the PC. That lil' bugger must vibrate like a mofo & be loud as hell if the UDM is supposed to an improvement.

for the UDM. And I'd like to post pics... but they are nothing to brag about. Namely because of my learning on the fly.

Give Lynn a raise... I've had a problem with 2 orders and they were corrected in less than 24hrs.

phamkl · 08-05-07, 10:54

When at high speeds try relaxing your grip a little bit. With my left hand, the one on the unit's head, I hold just enough to guide the machine while I let the bottom rest on my right hand's fingers. When I first tried it, I grasped the machine tightly because I thought I could get more control out of it but I decided to try an airgunning trick, called the artillery hold, where you hold the rifle (machine) just enough to be able to aim (guide) it. When I want to apply a lot of pressure, I just open my left palm and lean on the machine so that vibrations are absorbed by my entire arm rather than mostly in the hand and fingers.

You'd just that kind of hold for a spring air rifle where the gun undergoes two different vibrations where the spring uncoils, and then rebounds. Because of this, holding onto the rifle tightly causes discomfort and terrible accuracy. I figure the random orbital movements are somewhat similar. It's helped me but, YMMV.

s8nv2 · 08-05-07, 11:26

Thanks for the tip, I'll keep that in mind. I was almost tempted to put on some gloves to help lessen the vibrations. I wonder if more of a molded soft rubber handle would be better than the hardened one. Either that or some sort of dampening between the handle and the unit. Dunno.

It doesn't detract me from using the machine... it just makes me wonder how the PC is.

vandit23 · 08-06-07, 08:52

Got mine, today, as well!!!! I needed it for the hood of my GS350 which was badly marred by a carwash "detailer." Dude left horrific holograms on the hood, and it's been embarrassing drving around with them on a $60K car. ANyway, got some polish from Chemical Guys, and used the UDM with Green CCS pad, and in about 30 minutes, BEAUTIFUL!!!! I was pretty impressed how quickly the UDM broke down the polish...After examining the work under direct sunlight, it was like I could dive into the paint...I am sure it was a combo of the machine and polish, but WOW!!!!
Now, I have to do the entire car, which I am looking forward to...It was fun.

As for the Power switch, it did turn on a few times accidentially, but not a really big deal...I wonder if I got the updated power switch...How do you know?

Overall, ver happy with the device.

VTechFan02 · 08-06-07, 09:09

I just ordered mine as well from Danase. As far as I know the new power switch has not been released yet. I believe in the UDM announcement thread that DavidB laid out his plan to introduce all the upgrades (switch, longer chord...) all at once in about a month but check to be sure.

Can't wait to get mine and try it this weekend with Four Star MCC and SMR!!
Thanks Danase!!

-Frank

Scottwax · 08-15-07, 05:37

Take the handle off and just put your hand over the head of the UDM. Using my PC that way definitely reduced the vibrations.

Bigpoppa3346 · 08-15-07, 06:14

Quote:

Originally Posted by Scottwax

Take the handle off and just put your hand over the head of the UDM. Using my PC that way definitely reduced the vibrations.

Agreed. I never notice vibrations anymore, although I do use a PC or UDM pretty often (around 3 times a week). It doesn't seem loud to me either, but the noise is a lot less noticable if your garage door is open or you are working outside.