Pad Life....

[mcmmotorsports]

How long do your Meguiar pads last?
How do you know when to replace them?
W8006 & W9006 specifically.
Thanks.

[DetailManiac]

Not long if you use the wrong backing plate like I did
Than they look like this:



Caused by the sharp edge of the backing plate that was too large
in diameter ( 150 mm. ) and came outside the Velcro at the back of
the pad ( that's only 135 mm. ) so that was a real good lesson

[Dragpakmach]

The pads will last a long time if maintained properly.The pad abrasive quality breaks down eventually.Most average use pads last a few years for the DIY.My pads get worn alot quicker and I use them to apply wax or sealant after the cutting ability is gone.Ive got a 8006 pad thats 3years old and I use it for applying #21 now.The best thing to do is compare a older pad to a new pad and you will feel the difference and know its time to let it go.

[mcmmotorsports]

Wow! I thought the life span even if taken care of was a lot less. Good to know. Thanks.

[steve-0]

ive learned this from extensive use with foam pads at my job. i buff every day mainly with foam w7000, and a 3m swirl remover pad. if you get them to work right they r great, but not for everyone because they get cupped from wear. try a mini grinder and flatten the middle while spinning the buffer wheel low speed. it rebalances the pad like new. i can probably get about 30-40 cars buffed on one pad! i have more to say about the subject, but i could write a book someday too

[gb387]

I have a finishing pad thats about 3 years old as well and still looks fairly good. My polishing pads wear a little more than the finishing pads. Either way I get my moneys worth out of them.