Rupes` speed settings

[tinman]

Hi. A friend gifted me witha Rupes polisher (LH 16EN) sans the manual. I think it`s a great alternative to my Makita 9227c since it`s a mini polisher hence lightweight. What I want to know is there anyone out there who knows the corresponding rpm values of the speed settings in the knob? I tried contacting the manufacturer to no avail. All I can get is that the speed range is between 700-1700 rpm (that does not sound right )



thanks in advance

[Mizzuri]

good to see someone else using a Rupes. They are probably the best buffer available.....



I have the LH22 and it varies from 900 to 1900rpm and has 6 speed settings so Im guessing



1 = 900

2 = 1100

3 = 1300

4 = 1500

5 = 1700

6 = 1900



i find that the rupes buffer is so much smoother and vibration free that its easier to use at 1700rpm than the other dewalt buffer i have at 1300rpm. You will not be dissappointed with this machine.



If the machine is 700-1700 rpm then move the speed ratings correspondingly ie. 1=700, 2=900 etc

[tinman]

Mizzuri,



could you pls guide me with the speed setting you use whem:



compounding with Meg red pad (or other compounding pad)

using #83 / red pad (meg-compounding)

#83 / yellow pad (meg-polishing)



also could you pls give your recommendtions for the speed settings when using the buffer. I have the following supplies:



#83, #80, 3M MG, 3M FI II RC, AIO, 3M wool pad, #9. thanks

[Mizzuri]

If im using a wool pad I keep the rpm around 1300-1500. I find that the pad is aggressive enough without the extra heat.



For a foam compounding pads bewteen 1400-1600. For polishing I like to work the polish more so I get get rid of all trace marring from the previous cutting step so I use a slower speed of about 1100-1300.



Swirl removal is usally a bit different. I start off slow to work the polish in about 1100, speed it up to break it down about 1300 then slow it right down to 900 can spray a bit of water so I can leave a bit of polish on the paintwork so I dont introduce any extra maring. I think people call it buffing with a wet edge. you will find that buffing with a finishing pad will be the hardest to learn, try to more polish than less and really take your time and work it in.



Good luck

[tinman]

what polish do you use that is water friendly? I only have #83, #80, #9 and 3M MG and 3M PI II RC at my disposal.

[Mizzuri]

I have all of these polishes except for 3M FI II RC but have used other 3m products, all of which have not be bothered with a little spray of water.



If you are concerned you can used QD and give it a try, if it works for you then great, if not try something else. The Meguiars products have more polishing oils so they can be worked longer so maybe water is not nessesary.

[tinman]

thanks a lot