You may be right about not cleaning the pad and surface often enough. When I watched the video for the Griots, they show dry sanding all the grits with a fairly high speed and rarely stop to clean the pad. Maybe I need to slow the machine down and clean the pad and surface more often. (or go back to wet sanding the whole way) I am curious if the type of paper makes a difference? (silicone carbide, aluminum oxide..ect) The ones I get say they are made for plastics and other surfaces. I don't know if all types break down the same as you use them or if some are more aggressive during that period of time that could cause my swirls. I have a feeling though that you are right about the build-up of dust causing it. I was concerned about that when I bought the 3" griots because its slowest speed is 3,500rpm whereas the 6" griots runs 2,500 to 6,800. I may just return the 3" and exchange for the 6".
As for me getting lots of work, its just luck. I only do headlights on the weekend, so I try to line up a few every weekend if possible. I have two used car lots and just sell myself whenever I am out and about to people I talk with. I've tried just sticking my business card on windshields at Walmart and other places, but I've watched from a distance and most people just throw it away. It works much better if you can actually explain to them the entire process that you do and how it can benefit them. Thats ALL people want nowadays! Whats in it for them?! You gotta convince them that NOT doing their lights now will cost them more money later and the outcome will be less favorable. You also have to remind them how much NEW lights cost and how much better they will be able to see at night when your done. Lastly,...pick the right prospects. Young people who are fixin up their ride are good choices....nice cars with crappy lights..work well........the crappy cars with crappy lights don't buy....lol