Rotary novice needs practice

R

rmaurin

New member
Hi All,



I have been using a PC for a few months. I kind of got the hang of it. Not a pro...but pretty good. I think I understand what the machine is capable of.



I just got a Makita rotary. Nice machine. I would like to learn how to use it before I put it close to my car.



Since I donâ€â„¢t have a spare car or junk trunk lid to practice on, I looked around my home for something to polish. My wife gave me the OK to use the washer and dryer.



I installed a 6-inch Megs polishing pad with DACP. Started at 1000 RPM and went to 1500 RPM. It did not make a dent on the scratches. I then tried the Megs cutting pad and Diamond Cut. Same speeds. Both polishes dusted and the top of the dryer was very hot. Scratches looked exactly the same. I thought at least that I would have burnt the finish since I am a rookie. Oh well.



Have you had success with your washer/dryer as a rotary test bed? The finish on my dryer is now very shiny...but still scratched. Is it because the porcelain is hard as granite? Or did I do somthing wrong? Any other things to polish around the house? What did you practice on?



Thanks

Rich Maurin
 
Could very well be.



Often times a body shop will give you a scrap panel or two for free! I'd highly recommend trying to get on to practice on.



HTH
 
You have a great machine and it's not as dangerous as people think. Just remember, medium speed and no or very little pressure. Let the speed, pad, and polish do the cutting. As for washing machine, I've never tried it on one so I can't say. Also, try the menzerna line of polishes, they are great for rotary's and you can renue them with water, and moisten applicator with water prior to using, that is a benefit when using your machine. Stay away from high speeds and pressure and you'll be alright. I'm not sure about the "continuous pressure pads" i'd do a search before buying this type of pad. I don't use them so I can't say. I like 2000 to 3000 rpms, for polishing.
 
rmaurin said:
Hi All,



I have been using a PC for a few months. I kind of got the hang of it. Not a pro...but pretty good. I think I understand what the machine is capable of.



I just got a Makita rotary. Nice machine. I would like to learn how to use it before I put it close to my car.



Since I donâ€â„¢t have a spare car or junk trunk lid to practice on, I looked around my home for something to polish. My wife gave me the OK to use the washer and dryer.



I installed a 6-inch Megs polishing pad with DACP. Started at 1000 RPM and went to 1500 RPM. It did not make a dent on the scratches. I then tried the Megs cutting pad and Diamond Cut. Same speeds. Both polishes dusted and the top of the dryer was very hot. Scratches looked exactly the same. I thought at least that I would have burnt the finish since I am a rookie. Oh well.



Have you had success with your washer/dryer as a rotary test bed? The finish on my dryer is now very shiny...but still scratched. Is it because the porcelain is hard as granite? Or did I do somthing wrong? Any other things to polish around the house? What did you practice on?



Thanks

Rich Maurin
Click to expand...



If you goto a junk yard you can get some 1 off body skins for cheap. I know I have been to a few junk yards that have "No Clue" piles they sell to be used as scrap. Or Split Fiberglass / Plastic panels from accidents that they simply throw away. I see this as a decent option for practicing...
 
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