Curves and tight spots - Machine Polishing

[RedBull]

Hello guys,

 

I am a new member and a noob to machine polishing.  I am preparing to do the 2 step polishing system on my 2012 Camaro with my Porter Cable DA.  I have watched all the Adam's videos and I feel confident that I can do this.  However, as I watched the videos I found myself thinking that they are demonstrating polishing on the large flat areas and no examples of the curvier areas and tight spots.  

 

My question is do I lower the speed of my polisher in the curved areas and tight spots so I don't cause damage or am I good keeping the speed at 5?  If I do lower the speed will I get less correction and have run the polisher longer in those areas?

 

I would appreciate any help you guys can provide.

 

Thanks, Rob

[CMDChase]

I don't lower the speed, but what I do is to use 4" focus pads with my PC in small and curved areas. IMO if you lower the speed, you will not get the desired results. Good luck. You'll do fine.

[Chris@Adams]

I don't lower the speed, but what I do is to use 4" focus pads with my PC in small and curved areas. IMO if you lower the speed, you will not get the desired results. Good luck. You'll do fine.

Bingo!

[Team Adam's]

Bingo!

 

Bingo x2.  Ed's correct.

 

Lowering the speed on the PC will only slow down the correction process.  Since it's an orbital, there's no risk of any kind of strike-thru or burning the paint, even in tight spaces.

 

Grab yourself some 4" Focus Pads, those will help immensely in tight areas where the larger pads won't fit!

[Ricky Bobby]

My original PC 7424 is now dedicated to 4" pad duty only, since I also have a GG6 3rd gen which I use with 6" and 5" pads.

 

If running bigger pads around curves and compound areas you will find it hard to keep the pad rotating, the random orbital design is supposed to stop rotation on non-flat panels.  When the pad is not rotating you are not correcting.

 

If you step down to a 4" pad/plate combo you will have more chance of keeping the pad in contact with the paint and keep it rotating.

 

To be honest I'd just go to HF and get their 6" polisher for $50 and get the Adams 4" backing plate, and be able to switch machines in and out depending on what area you are working.

[RedBull]

That is some good advise guys. I will look to grab some 4" pads and backing plate. I appreciate the help, thanks.

[blakek]

i needed this too for some pillar work

 

thanks for the suggestion!!