what is spring

"pjhusa" (pjhuskinja)
03/20/2016 at 17:08 • Filed to: None

it is cold.

DISCUSSION (10)

Svend > pjhusa
03/20/2016 at 17:35

Softy. I’ve been outside in my shorts and T-shirt washing cars in this several times before now.

AM3R shamefully returns > Svend
03/20/2016 at 18:45

I feel like a kid on Christmas

Kinja'd!!!

Svend > AM3R shamefully returns
03/20/2016 at 19:37

Very nice fella.

A few tips,

Don’t over tighten the backing plate to the machine,

Make sure the pad is well centred onto the backing plate (or you’ll get a lot of vibration coming threw),

Make sure to correctly prime the pad ( a few drops at random intervals to start with, then introduce the pad to the paintwork and gently with the power off or on a low setting spread the polish on a small area before starting),

Always have the pad flat to the paintwork or the machine may take off from you, cause excess vibration or wonder away,

But mainly, don’t be scared of it, keep a firm hold but at the same time don’t tense up your arms,

And start with a soft pad and work up to find what you need for what you want to do (paint can be very soft up to very hard, I did a blue VW Polo the other day and a soft nylon brush with degreaser marred the door shut, so start gentle).

AM3R shamefully returns > Svend
03/20/2016 at 23:57

Thanks for the advice, what you tell me really helps because I know I can trust it. I’m going rather easy at first to make sure I get it all down. Just a one step detail with optimum poli seal on white pads. My 335i is in rather nice shape so this should do it. My 328i is a little more used so that will be next and likely a 2 step detail. I’m already set with washing/claying.

Here’s how I think I’ll go at it,

1) tape car

2) prime pad, spread polish around, then 4 pea sized drops.

3) polisher on speed 1, spread around section.

4) go side to side, gradually making my way from top to bottom of section at speed 5-6, overlapping about 50%

5) repeat step 4 in opposite pattern

6) use microfiber to wipe area clean (spray with quick detailer to make wiping easier?)

7) next section.

Am I good?

Also, I know people say use 5 pounds of pressure, the machine weighs about 5. Do I just use the weight of the machine or should I physically apply 5 pounds on top of the weight of the machine when polishing?

Thanks so much Svend, I’ll be sure to take lots of pictures so I can share the process with oppo. You are very encouraging.

Svend > AM3R shamefully returns
03/21/2016 at 00:30

Stop it, you’ll have me blushing. Lol.

I place of step 6 with the QD, use a IPA (about 12.5% should do), CarPro Eraser, Gyeon Prep, or similar to remove any residue and oils.

You want to apply only slight pressure, let the weight of the machine do the work.

I’ll take some pics tomorrow for some tips on taping up and masking areas if you wish.

AM3R shamefully returns > Svend
03/21/2016 at 00:37

Will do. I feel like the taping isn't gonna be toooo hard. I'm just curious whether or not I should tape the shadowline trim (gloss black) surrounding the Windows. They could definitely use a polish.

Svend > AM3R shamefully returns
03/21/2016 at 00:59

Yes. Tape anything non painted plastic or rubber (rubber being the worst offender).

I'll do a couple of quick shots when I get home in an hour or so.

AM3R shamefully returns > Svend
03/21/2016 at 01:12

Thank you Svend! Last question: I don't have a garage, is it okay if I polish outside not directly in shade?

Svend > AM3R shamefully returns
03/21/2016 at 02:43

I’m going to start another post titled ‘Paging AM3R’ rather than keep on someone elses post.

Svend > AM3R shamefully returns
03/21/2016 at 03:43

Here you go. a link to the other post.

http://oppositelock.kinja.com/paging-am3r-1766101317