Can I use what I already have?

D

dmw650

New member
Hi. I am new to machine polishing and have some questions about getting started. The posts in this group are great. They have been a huge help on what I need and how to get started.



My car is a 2004 BMW Convertible and it has some swirls that I want to remove. I tried hand applying swirl-x but that wasn't enough.



I have a lot of other power tools and it seems like some could also work for detailing.

1) Bosch random orbit sander. 5" velcro backing plate. It's rated for ~3.5 amps. It takes quite a bit of force to bog it down.

2) Pneumatic (air) 3" random orbit sander with two backing plates. One is just under 3" and the other is 1.5".



Is it possible to use these and just purchase the pads? What size for each tool? Is this just folly and I should give it up and buy a buffer?



Thanks,



David
 
I haven't really tried many of the otc products for removing swirls by hand such as ultimate compound, swirl-x, and so on. I believe O'Reilly carried Megs #9 Swirl remover 2.0 at most locations, but I think it's meant for use with DA or Rotary to break down the polish. As far as using the Bosch orbital, I can't say if it will be alright for using on your car without really seeing it. I personally use a pneumatic DA to do some work where my rotary isn't needed, so there's still a chance it could be alright. But, if it turns out to be OK, I would look into ordering some decent pads for it from LC. The smaller 3" may not be too great if you're trying to cover a whole car, I usually use those for headlights and in tight spots. Hope that helps you out some and welcome to Autopia!
 
dmw650 said:
Hi. I am new to machine polishing and have some questions about getting started. The posts in this group are great. They have been a huge help on what I need and how to get started.



My car is a 2004 BMW Convertible and it has some swirls that I want to remove. I tried hand applying swirl-x but that wasn't enough.



I have a lot of other power tools and it seems like some could also work for detailing.

1) Bosch random orbit sander. 5" velcro backing plate. It's rated for ~3.5 amps. It takes quite a bit of force to bog it down.

2) Pneumatic (air) 3" random orbit sander with two backing plates. One is just under 3" and the other is 1.5".



Is it possible to use these and just purchase the pads? What size for each tool? Is this just folly and I should give it up and buy a buffer?



Thanks,



David
Click to expand...



I'd try what you have.



The 5" backing plate would be fine for use with 5.5" pads, and various online vendors sell those (sorry, don't know which ones as I use different sizes).



The air sander's larger pad oughta be good for use with the 3" Griot's Garage pads, and maybe some other brands too. Check here first: We Are Car Care -- Car Wax, Car Polish, Auto Detailing Supplies, Car Buffers & Car Accessories Store



Swirl-X might still be too gentle, but give it a try. Using the machines makes it a whole 'nother ballgame. Generally, stuff that works OK by hand will also work OK via random orbital; they're just "fast hands that don't get fatigued".



Oh, and Welcome to Autopia!
 
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