Got a Buffer... How the !@#% do I use it??

[Tri4X2]

Seriously guys... I decided to bite the bullet and bought a buffer for the first time. I know there are probably hundrends of threads on here about it... but what is the best way to use it? Suggestions on Waxes?

I bought a Craftsman and have the high end wool pads, but I REALLY don't want to screw up the Hull!!!

[02ProstarSammyD]

Are you trying to wax, polish, compound, etc? Need more info on goal

[Tri4X2]

Just need to wax the booger.... she is a 2010 who is always covered and looks great... just want a great shine before I put her back on the lake

[stt]

Good video with info :

http://www.adamspolishes.com/t-Detai...Polishing.aspx

[ntidsl]

I'd suggest a polish.

[ntidsl]

then wax...sorry...if you want. Depends on the polish. I always start the year with a Strbrite polish with PTEF. Then i use a weekly spray on wax just to make her smell good and keep shiney.

I was very hesitant to go to polish rather than wax but once I did I was sold. Some will tell you that polishes dont protect and while that may be true for some polishes it is not for others.

[Patrick Hardy]

Start off your learning curve real slow and easy, you do not want to burn your boats gel coat. A good wash, polish and then wax using your buffer and the boat will look good. Be careful though, the detailing world is a lot like your average MC owners on this site, a very expensive and OCD forming habit. Good luck!

Originally Posted by stt

Good video with info :

http://www.adamspolishes.com/t-Detai...Polishing.aspx

+1 on the Adams call. I have been using his products for years. He makes awesome products, great customer service and fast delivery.

Here is his website link -http://www.adamspolishes.com/default.aspx

And his link to his great product usage videos - http://www.youtube.com/view_play_lis...DEE23BA74E253F

[sheckski]

what about compound / finish? i have already done the 3,m heavy compound. Now onto the 3m finish but the directions seem to suggest applying and buffing off in one go. Perhaps my wool pad is too damp, but so far that is just not happening.

Suggestions / instructions?

Thanks

[Tri4X2]

by the way.... I fried the Craftsman this afternoon. Porter Cable 7424XP is on its way tomorrow. Pick her up at 10:30am

[catamount]

You're only using one compound per pad, right?

You should have one pad for the heavy compound, one for the light cutting, one for the polish, etc. You never want to mix them.

The autogeek videos are VERY good tutorials on the 7424. Check them out here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q70g83mnTn4