New pad prep and care

Q

qbmurderer13

New member
Hey guys im about to use my porter cable for the first time. Is there anything I need to do to the pads like a brush or spray before I start using them. Also whats the best way to keep the pads in the best condition besides cleaning after every use? Thanks
 
+1 I'd like to know as well.

Also, how do you clean LC CCS pads, as I've heard diff. brands have diff. cleaning methods.

Sorry to hi-jack, but I didn't want to start a thread on such a minor question.
 
I use XMT polishing pad conditioner to prep a pad before using it. Any QD will work too though. I only use the XMT stuff because it came free with a kit I bought from Autogeek a while back.



For cleaning, I use DP polishing pad rejuvenator. Also from Autogeek. Again, this is not a *necessary* product. Almost any mild soap and brush agitation will work well. But the DP stuff is SOOOOOOO easy. You soak the bads, scrub them with a brush, and then rinse like crazy. They come out like new every time.



Always dry your pads velcro side up.
 
My routine is the same for both foam and wool, new and used. I prepare a small bucket of cool water and add a small amount of DP pad cleaner or Optimum Power Clean-just a weak solution. As I am finishing up with a pad I toss it in the bucket to soak. I use a weak solution and cool water so any adhesive is not degraded.



At the end of the day I squeeze all pads under this solution to remove as much polish/LSP as possible and set them aside, when done I dump this solution and prepare a stronger solution and one by one work each pad in this solotion, squeezing never bending the pad, then a rinse under running cool water and squeezing out as much water as possible. When all are done, I give em a spin on the rotary or DA to get ot the remainder of the water. After that they are placed on a vinyl covered rack, velcro up, for the final drying. Then they go to the appropriate Plastic container for storage. Some place each pad in their own zip-loc bag. Hope this helps!
 
Sounds like quite a process lol So if I lightly mist them with any QD before use that should be alright? Also I think I might invest in a grit guard pad washer. Looks like an awesome and easy product.
 
Before I use any (new/used) pads, I rinse the new pads with water. Then I put it on the Dewalt and let it spin dry. Watch out for the splatter. You can avoid this by pointing the foam downwards.



After I finish using any pad, I rinse the pads with water. I squeeze the pads (don't twist/wring the pads) and continue to rinse until the water that comes out is clear. Then I put them in the foam cleaning powder solution. Let the foam soak up the solution a couple times, and let them sit for a while.
 
BTW you should clean your pads after your done. Get a spur to clean after each panel that you are polishing.
 
Theres really no pre prep for using new pads. All I can see one doing is to put it on the PC and give it a whirl for a few seconds to shake of any sanded particles. Other then that, when your all done, theres nothing technical or mysterious that needs to be done when cleaning. Saturate with water, add some dish soap or APC (diluted), massage into the pores, rinse and repeat (if necessary). I usually fold up and squeeze excessive water out of, then drop them in a clean bucket. Keep out of sun!
 
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