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DA Microfiber Correction System Class
Tuesday May 17, 2011
Our first early evening class dedicated to the DA Microfiber Correction was a big success, thanks to all those who attended last night.
After some classroom instruction where we discussed the use of the system, its unique components, and the differences between using it and traditional foam pads, we stepped out to the garage for some hands on demonstration.
This is what we were faced with correcting:
With the DMC5 cutting disc attached to the G110v2 buffer and the speed set to 4 (4800 opm) we quickly reviewed before getting to work.
Initial priming of the pad is critical for the compounding step. Here you can still see some clear areas on the disc that need further priming before real correction can be done.
Cleaning the pad regularly is critically important when using this system. Don't get lazy, don't cut corners. Clean the pad!
Another important aspect of pad handling is to remove it from the backing plate so as not to damage the foam. Since you're using a good deal of pressure with this system it's very common to generate a fair amount of heat on the backing plate/disc interface. Just yanking the disc off the plate can lead to premature failure of the disc. Get you ringers under the hook & loop attachments and then pull up to remove the disc. This will greatly add to the life of the disc, so take an extra second and make sure you aren't just ripping it off the plate.
So where did these two simple steps get us?
While this is obviously a huge improvement in the finish, truth be told the paint on this vehicle was very delicate and even the finishing wax left a bit of a haze. Keep in mind that this system was not developed to be a concours finishing system but rather a quick way to do overall correction in a production environment. But as a weapon in an enthusiasts detailing quiver, or a tool in the collection of a pro, it can get you through some seriously bad defects pretty quickly, and with the huge safety factor provided by the DA. And there's no reason why you can't remove the defects first with this and then follow up with something like M205 on a foam finishing disc if you have to. But you really only have to on very delicate paints - most of the time the two steps alone will get you a fantastic finish all around.
After this we let some of the attendees cut loose and give the system a try.
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