This is what I picked up ... I may need to get some small deep cutting pads and compound, but I'm starting with this:TDIinMA, did you give the 3M a shot?
I finally pulled the trigger on this kit and added a six pack of 4" cutting pads and a 3.5" backing plate for tighter areas as the scratches are all over both cars:
Meguiars Porter Cable XP Ultra Polish Kit with 5.5 Inch Pads FREE BONUS
Kit Includes:
Porter Cable 7424XP Variable Speed Polisher
Porter Cable 7424XP Wrench
Porter Cable 7424XP Counter Weight
Dual Action Flexible 5 Inch Hook & Loop Backing Plate
32 oz. Meguiars Mirror Glaze #105 Ultra-Cut Compound
32 oz. Meguiars Mirror Glaze #205 Ultra Finishing Polish
3 CCS 5.5 Inch Orange Light Cutting Foam Pads
2 CCS 5.5 Inch Gray Finishing Foam Pads
2 Cobra Microfiber Detailing Cloths, 16 x 16 inches
I think it's safe to say that you have made an improvement but you still have a long long way to go. You need a more aggressive cut and if you ultimately go through the clear it needed to be wet sanded and re-cleared anyway. Go for it!After about five passes on the left side on the hood you should be able to see the difference. The scratches are not readily visible, only when you get real close and put your head down near hood level.
Yes, that is my thinking as well. I'm pretty sure I can get it to an acceptable level without having to go that route (in fact, it's close to that now). We shall see...I think it's safe to say that you have made an improvement but you still have a long long way to go. You need a more aggressive cut and if you ultimately go through the clear it needed to be wet sanded and re-cleared anyway. Go for it!
That's just the 105. I do need to work on my technique. I started with an "X" pattern of moderate amount on speed five. Then after a couple passes of slow, steady work I got a bit impatient and switched to a 4" orange pad and did some at 6. But when I did this I noticed the compound was beginning to break down much faster. I then quit and ordered the more aggressive cutting pads and also read that the passes need to be slow and consistent. I think I went too fast here.Is that with just the compound or is that with both compound and polish? Remember to move slowly with your passes and keep a even pressure. what speed did you use on the 7424?
Gonna get those tomorrow probably, or I may wait till I can do the entire car.no problem do you have any before and after pictures?
Thanks!Wow, you did a pretty amazing job! From the photos, you can not even see scratches in the after shots.
Seriously .. it's a lot of work, but the results are well worth it. Thanks again for all the advice. You really helped a lot.Congrats and welcome to another addiction. Lol