pads for step 2???

[pitt1717]

so reading up some and new to all this as with my other posts I'm looking to get a GG6 for my first DA. Having a 17 explorer because of all the plastic at the bottom I'm going to add both the 5 and 3 inch backing plates. I was looking at the griot pads but LC thin seem to be favored. I don't think my truck needs heavy correcting but there are light swirls and want a deep wet look. heres where I'm stumped.
I think ill be safe getting the orange pads for the initial correction and red pads for sealant/wax. I'm confused on step 2, should I get the white or black pad? do I need both?
For the 3 inch plate (actual size is 2.75) I'm going to stick with griot and get the orange,yellow,black that they offer. this will be for the pillars, small sections of the bumper and between the roof rails and windows.
how many do you think I should start with for each? am I even on the right track? all the info in stepping up to a machine is overwhelming but the end results I see here seem to be worth the chase.

thanks

still can't even decide on the actual product yet argggggg

 

[BudgetPlan1]

Orange and white generally. About 6 each per vehicle. Wolfgang Twins work well...Total Swirl Remover and Finishing Glaze.

 

[dlc95]

I really like the lake country tangerine hydrotech, or green and blue ccs for polishing.

Other than that, I have used the blue buff and shine a lot. It's actually very similar to the green ccs, and yellow meguiars.

 

[Crispy]

I use the ThinPro pads and they work well with 3 " size.

Orange for cutting

White for polishing

Red for fine polishing or waxing.

I like the way the pads tend to leave more product on the surface and generate less heat especially on plastic bumpers.