Just a side note...1st time polishing = Use someone else`s car. Don`t "learn on your car".
A paint gauge is a must.
HighLine Meter II Paint Thickness Gauge (or equivalent) is good.
You can measure in Mils or Microns. I prefer Microns and try to remove minimal amount of cc.
If you are not using a PTG you are polishing blind! This particular paint was pretty swirled out.
I just did a
2017 Chevrolet Camaro SS - A Miracle Detailing - CQuartz Professional
It had a VERY thick PTG reading and as soon as I began correction I had red on the mf pad.
Yes, there is red color/tint in this particular Camaro clear coat. It sure makes you stop!!!
I switched to Carpro 5" flash pad with M101. Swirls gone and no red. (see thread).
Important: Every paint is different! I do a test spot with a medium/light machine speed.
I use a slight down pressure on the machine head. I do not push or press down hard.
The most important factors...in order...are product, pad, machine, user (technique).
There are different abrasive technologies S.M.A.T. and DAT and product/pad work times.
It may look great when you are done and then you`ll have clear coat failure in 3-6 months.
I may try 3-4 different compounds and 3-4 different pad types to find what works.
Remember: When you remove clear coat there is no putting it back! Be gentle!
Use the least aggressive method to get the job done!
You may find that Essence with a Carpro Gloss pad may be enough to do the trick.
Even so, I would start with that to "learn" the machine and the feel of pad and polish.
Prime the pad, 3-4 pea sized drops,
clean the pad after each section and reapply peas.
