Polishing & Waxing weekend project

[marekli]

I recently purchased a Makita polisher that came with 2 pads (one thicker and wooly, the other thinner). I also purchased 3M Finesse polishing and Collinite wax (recommended by someone to me). Since I never have done anything like this (I am good with sanding wood but not with fiberglass) I spent an hour just trying out the thicker pad with the polishing compound on the side where there is a bit more oxidation. I noticed I was getting quite tired since the tool is quite heavy.The boat is covered usually on a trailer so most of the oxidation is on the sides just above the water line... how do you guys go about this, how many steps, how many rpms etc?

 

[jakedaawg]

Re: Polishing & Waxing weekend project

I'm sure you will get a lot of different answers. I do a lot of "wheeling and waxing" each seeason. I start with 2000 wet/dry paper to remove the heaviest oxidation. I then use the wool pad with 3M heavy duty rubbing compound. I then work with a foam pad and use other 3m compounds down to machine glaze II or III. Four steps. Some times you can skip one of the compunds. With the heavy duty I usually run about 900 RPM. For the machine glazes I step it up to 1100 or so. The fith and final step is a good marine wax w/HPDE or whatever the initials are. I happen to like the "Starbrite Boat Wax" with a foam pad.

 

[Scott Danforth]

Re: Polishing & Waxing weekend project

do a search, this topic has been answered many times.

the amount of oxidation will determine your steps.

I myself do not polish higher than 1500 RPM on a 7" pad, or 1300 RPM on a 9" pad