Rotary Polishing Thread!

[illestFX35]

Dont know if there is one of these threads but here it is! I have always been a fan of rotary polishing and I do love my Porter Cable 7424xp DA polisher... but its so fun to pull out my Makita rotary and play it old school. I am actually going to detail my car this Saturday so stay tuned for some pictures! Anyways I have a question for all of you that use Rotary polishers... On my BMW 3 series after the polishing stage I always some holograms in my paint. Using Meguiars M205 polishing compound actually gets rid of it but on the FX using any polishing compound with the same polishing pads, I never get holograms... not sure if it has to do with the soft paint or not.


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[GEE50FX]

Why do you like using your Makita rotary instead of your PC random orbital polisher. It is a lot safer with the PC isn't it?

 

[illestFX35]

Why do you like using your Makita rotary instead of your PC random orbital polisher. It is a lot safer with the PC isn't it?

It is very safe and forgiving with the DA polisher but with all the right materials washing, cutting, polishing, and waxing takes only about 1 1/2 hour to 2 hours. And there is a noticable POP in the end result with the rotary, especially with black cars. But the PC is still a great machine no doubt, but I prefer using the rotary.

 

[Cruiser]

A few years ago or so, I had this brilliant idea that I would want to try my hand on some serious DIY detailing and purchased a Porter Cable random orbital polisher. Fast forward 2+ years later. The PC is still in its original box still untouched. As for the DIY detailing, well as it is, that remains still a thought. lol

 

[WiND DANCE]

Holograms can come from amount pressure, time of work in an area, product break down speed, paint hardness, etc. BUT imho almost every rotary polisher/pad combo will leave holograms. Whether it's distinctively noticeable is another story. I like end a detail with a finishing pad on a DA. Always test in a small unnoticeable area to practice. I will say that Infiniti/Nissan paint is fairly soft. A rotary in a experienced hand is 3x quicker than a DA.

I love detailing and have done many cars. Every car manufacturers paint is different so experimenting first before applying to the whole car is key.

Start with a chemical strip after the polish like diluted 90% iso alcohol and distilled water. Using a heavy weave microfiber to remove any residue from the polishing agent to truly see your results. A lot of polishes these days have masking abilities which isn't the true finish. If there is marring or holograms finish with a DA. Then top with wax of your choice.