RPM selection

[rtbrick]

Lately, there has been several references to RPM speed when using a PC (or rotorary). Could someone layout some guidelines as what RPM setting to use in various situations (scratch removal, oxidation, swirls, bad swirls, polish, applying topcoat, etc). If not guidelines, then your personal preference.

[CharlesW]

Seems like I almost always use a setting of 4 - 4.5 for polishing or applying product.
With a PC.

[Beemerboy]

I have a Hitachi rotary with only two speeds fast and faster....no really 1900 and 3200 RPM. I use the 1900 for the paint, I know this is faster than mosty here would suggest but its all I have to work with currently.
I make sure to watch all the angles and pressure when using it.
For cutting oxdation I use a wool cutting pad on 1900 with 3m light cut compound that works really well. For polish I have some foam compounding and cutting pads for jobs that are heavy with swrils.

I have yet to have any problems but I have been using this one for years and understand who to work it. I`d say foind a car that you can play with and go at it. Just remeber to use common sence with the pressure

[Thomasfl]

I generally crank it up for scratches/swirls (5 or 6), polish`s around 4, waxes around 3.

[Tassadar]

Call up Enterprise Rent-A-Car. And rent a SUV for a week. Plenty of testing surface :D

[Ringo]

Go to junkyard and practice. I have an 11 year old son and that`s what I`m doing with him.

I fugure by next summer, he`s can start washing cars around the neighborhood to make a few dollars.

[onthespot]

Originally posted by Ringo
Go to junkyard and practice. I have an 11 year old son and that`s what I`m doing with him.

I fugure by next summer, he`s can start washing cars around the neighborhood to make a few dollars.

I take my 11 year old son with me on a lot of jobs. He`s very helpful, especially for things like cleaning wheel wells and lower panel tar spots. I`ve permitted him to wash my personal cars for practice (under close supervision of course)... By next year I`ll have him polishing...

On my job sites, after the job is completed - the customers pay me and kick him a five or even a ten dollar bill! The kid loves it! he`s been making money all summer.... Oh, and did I mention how much he loves to clean my shop vac??? He always manages to uncover a few dollars in coins when he cleans it. :cool: