DA Pads clarification needed

[magnus]

Got the PC DA Polisher with the one W8006 (Polishing Pad) as well as the WDAV99-B Kit with two W8006 (Polishing Pad) and one W-9006 (Finishing Pad).

First, a comment. For spending over $200 for the PC, I think Meguiar's should throw in the WDAV99-B kit. It recommended so often on the website, this forum, and their magazine, that it should just be part of the kit.

Now, my question. If the Polishing Pads are used for the paint cleaner (consumer or professional) at what stage should the Finishing Pad be used at?

If wax is nothing more than a protectant, what purpose is there to use a DA and pad? No more gloss is going to come from using a DA and wax, correct?

Should the Finishing Pad be used after the Polishing Pad at the polishing stage? In other words, use the Polishing Pad with polishing liquid, then do it again with the Finishing Pad and liquid? Or jus the Finishing Pad alone after polishing?

I was hoping to finish my '66 Mustang the weekend, but the DA backing pad almost shredded on me, after its first use, only going about 2/3 through the paint cleaning stage. I wasn't too happy to find that my local retailers didn't carry the backing pad, and the pro shops weren't open on Sunday (in my area). I'm waiting for Meguiar's customer service to respond to my email. If I can find something, I guess I'll start all over this weekend...

Thanks for your answers!

[Tim Lingor]

Hey Magnus,

Sorry to hear about your problems with the backing plate. I am sure Meguiar's Customer Care Center will take care of you!!

Generally, I prefer to use a Polishing pad when I am applying a product that cleans the paint. ie.removes swirls, oxidation etc. An example would be #83 DACP etc.

Once the swirls have been removed, I apply a glaze like #7 Show Car Glaze or #81 Hand Polish with a W-9006 Finishing pad. At his stage of the game, you are not trying to remove defects. Instead you are trying to bring the finish to its Maximum Potential. You will find that the PC will allow you to apply very thin and even coats. As such, you will require far less pressure on the finish to remove the product. This REALLY helps avoid instilling swirls back into the finish. The PC provides a uniform, thin coat of product applied with an even pressure.

Finally, yes using a PC to apply a sealant and/or wax does make a difference IMHO! For one, as I mentioned above, it will allow thinner coats, thereby allowing easier wipe-off and less chance of instilling micro-marring back into the surface. The other benefit is using the PC, and a clean W-8006 Pad with a Meguiar's Ultimate Microfiber Bonnet over it. This combo tends to remove the residue easily but also "polishes" the surface so-to-speak. I have found that you obtain a deeper, richer look to the finish.

I hope this helps!
Tim