Paint type?

[KawBoy]

I wouldn't recommend a Rupes for your first DA for the simple fact that you will be locked into > 5.5" pads. This is assuming your not buying a Mini to go with it - then your talking $$$.

Once you get into this, you will realize most cars have smaller areas that require 3-4" pads to polish successfully. IME you would be better served with getting a Griots 6" DA with a 2 & 7/8" / 3.5" and 5" BP.

Some of these areas are:

- window pillars
- bumper covers
- head/tail lights
- around door handles
- around emblems
- trunk key area

That will give you what you all the sizes you need to tackle all the areas on all cars. You will obviously need pads as well.

You've got a point here... I actually didn't know I wouldn't be able to use the RUPES 21 or 15 in those areas. I have two cars; a 2012 M3 and a 2013 Elantra, with an M4 coming by March or April next year. These are the cars I'd be using the machines on.
The Griots 6 would take care of everything in just one machine? I am assuming the results would be the same as a Flex or Rupes.
Thank you and I apologize for all the questions.

Brgds.

 

[Mike@DedicatedPerfection]

Mike,
I wasn't thinking about using OEM RUPES pads and liquids; rather Wolfgang or Menzerna. I thought about the RUPES just because I've heard they are one step above the others, which may not be true. Do you use a Flex?
Thank you again.
Brgds.

I do use the 3401 and PE14 rotary. Below is a technique I developed for the 3401.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum...rning-3401-menzerna-products-hybrid-pads.html

It also works well on the PE14.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum...ity/80973-utilizing-smack-technique-pe14.html

The 3401 has quite a bit more power than what people think it does.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/flex-polishers/81208-flex-comparision-pe14-vs-3401-a.html

 

[KawBoy]

I do use the 3401 and PE14 rotary. Below is a technique I developed for the 3401.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum...rning-3401-menzerna-products-hybrid-pads.html

It also works well on the PE14.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum...ity/80973-utilizing-smack-technique-pe14.html

The 3401 has quite a bit more power than what people think it does.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/flex-polishers/81208-flex-comparision-pe14-vs-3401-a.html

Jesus Christ, Mike; is there anything you haven't done with these things yet?
I was taking a good look at the M3; it does shine like brand new; looking from a few feet away you wouldn't be able to see a single blemish. Those damn water spots. And the windows... looks like it there was a film on them.
I guess a polisher is a matter of personal preference, but as a newbie, I just don't have a preference.

swanicyouth pointed out about the size of the pads; I am still kind of lost, have no idea what to get.

For the M4, I should probably send it to you before BMW ships it to me.

You guys are great. Thank you for taking my questions and answering them. I really do appreciate.

Brgds.

 

[Mike@DedicatedPerfection]

Jesus Christ, Mike; is there anything you haven't done with these things yet?
I was taking a good look at the M3; it does shine like brand new; looking from a few feet away you wouldn't be able to see a single blemish. Those damn water spots. And the windows... looks like it there was a film on them.
I guess a polisher is a matter of personal preference, but as a newbie, I just don't have a preference.

swanicyouth pointed out about the size of the pads; I am still kind of lost, have no idea what to get.

For the M4, I should probably send it to you before BMW ships it to me.

You guys are great. Thank you for taking my questions and answering them. I really do appreciate.

Brgds.

Rofl!!!! Can you tell I am infatuated with Flex tools!? Well with good reason. I prefer German autos over everything, I live in Germany and travel the unlimited Autobahns and plant my foot as often as I can, I am within 50 miles of the infamous Nurburgring, and I have toured the Flex facility.

http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/flex-polishers/78281-smack-tours-flex-tools-gmbh-germany.html

http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum...-smack-tour-mentioned-flex-tools-website.html

I am also infatuated with Menzerna polishing products. Surprised? I just received the new hot off the press products from Menzerna that was released at the passing AutoMechanika in Frankfurt. These will make it stateside first quarter '15 per Jeff Silver president MenzernaUSA.

Ok enough bragging. Back on Topic.

If you have water spots and etchings that you need to remove, I would start off a bit heavier such as Menzerna FG400. Then follow that with SF4000. Have the M4 stop by. It will be in good hands for sure. I will put a shine on it like nothing else. :xyxthumbs:

What color are you getting?

 

[KawBoy]

Mike,

I agree with you about German cars; I even have (overseas) an "Italian" car that is actually German (I am sure you know which brand I am talking about).
Once, long ago, we had here in the US our Autobahn, in Montana. You probably remember that. Long ago though, but I've never had the opportunity to drive up there. I have, however, been to the Autobahn; nothing like it!
Nurburgring is something else... nothing like the "ring".
Back to the topic: She the M3 does have water spots and they are indeed etched; however, the pain is so shine and looking so good (despite the water spots). I am just afraid of using something too harsh, but rather going with something mild. I would probably start with the SF4000 or the Wolfgang thing and take it from there. I am now considering the Flex over the Rupes. Decisions, decisions...
I am yet to decide on the M4 color. I am divided between Austin Yellow, Yas Blue or Mineral Grey, but something tells me it will be Grey. I am almost out of the Yellow. I am going to keep the E92 Alpine White as I really like the V8. How far are you from BMW delivery center?
Thank you much again.
Brgds.

 

[Mike@DedicatedPerfection]

Mike,

I agree with you about German cars; I even have (overseas) an "Italian" car that is actually German (I am sure you know which brand I am talking about).
Once, long ago, we had here in the US our Autobahn, in Montana. You probably remember that. Long ago though, but I've never had the opportunity to drive up there. I have, however, been to the Autobahn; nothing like it!
Nurburgring is something else... nothing like the "ring".
Back to the topic: She the M3 does have water spots and they are indeed etched; however, the pain is so shine and looking so good (despite the water spots). I am just afraid of using something too harsh, but rather going with something mild. I would probably start with the SF4000 or the Wolfgang thing and take it from there. I am now considering the Flex over the Rupes. Decisions, decisions...
I am yet to decide on the M4 color. I am divided between Austin Yellow, Yas Blue or Mineral Grey, but something tells me it will be Grey. I am almost out of the Yellow. I am going to keep the E92 Alpine White as I really like the V8. How far are you from BMW delivery center?
Thank you much again.
Brgds.

I know exactly what car you are talking about. Once the Germans acquired them the quality went through the roof and they no longer spontaneously catch fire like they used to.

Wouldn't it be ironic if the Italian polishers caught fire just like their automobile brothers? Surely wouldn't want that mess in my hands.

I do remember that but never made it up there. There is nothing like the Autobahn. I often get frustrated when getting into other neighboring countries where everything is limited and often much slower moving than here in Germany. Besides, I would much rather drive with the Germans than anyone else. They take driving incredibly serious.

Nurburgring, where to begin? Well to start it is the mecca for automobile driving. Nothing else compares to the Green Hell.

You can start off mild with either Menzerna SF4000 or Wolfgang Finishing Glaze on a white polishing pad to see where that gets you.

The decisions are endless my friend. Please take your time and research these tools. Ask me anything you like about any of the Flex tools. I had a bit of rotary experience years ago before getting into the 3401 and the dear driven aspect of the Flex really hit home with me. With this feature the tool will rotate no matter how hard you press down on it.

Go for an individual color! I really love the sound of that glorious V8 as well. A guy in my car club in Vegas has a white one with competition package, DCT, with full Akrapovic titanium exhaust and custom EAS tune for that setup. Man is that music to the ears.

I am roughly 6 hours from BMW Welt. BTW, never caught your name.

Best Regards,
Mike

 

[KawBoy]

Mike,

I agree with you about Germans and Italians, even though I am half Italian! I don't know much about the Germans driving habits, but I have to tell you that driving in Italy is fun!

Dr. Pain on another post, suggested the use of Spotless, which I bought but haven't had the time to try it. I also bought that Iron X. I guess I will try the Spotless next weekend if I have the opportunity to wash my car and see what happens. Regardless, I am going to get the Mezerna and probably the Wolfgang stuff as well. Car needs some cleaning after all.

Should I get a smaller polisher for places like swanicyouth suggested? I know nothing.

The car the guy at your club in Vegas has and mine are very similar. I also have Akra Evolution and all the packages plus the M Edition package. Will try to post pictures here if I manage to figure this one out.

Thank you again Mike! And BTW, my name is Fausto.

 

[Mike@DedicatedPerfection]

Mike,

I agree with you about Germans and Italians, even though I am half Italian! I don't know much about the Germans driving habits, but I have to tell you that driving in Italy is fun!

Dr. Pain on another post, suggested the use of Spotless, which I bought but haven't had the time to try it. I also bought that Iron X. I guess I will try the Spotless next weekend if I have the opportunity to wash my car and see what happens. Regardless, I am going to get the Mezerna and probably the Wolfgang stuff as well. Car needs some cleaning after all.

Should I get a smaller polisher for places like swanicyouth suggested? I know nothing.

The car the guy at your club in Vegas has and mine are very similar. I also have Akra Evolution and all the packages plus the M Edition package. Will try to post pictures here if I manage to figure this one out.

Thank you again Mike! And BTW, my name is Fausto.

Fausto,

I know what you mean about driving in Italy. Here in Germany everything is by the book no exceptions.

Dr. Pain (Claude) brought up an excellent suggestion on the use of Spotless. Wait till you use Iron-X and see the reaction on white paint!

It would be a great idea to pick up a smaller polisher for intricate areas. The mini Griots 3" (GG3) is great for this. Equip it with 3" pads.

Sounds like you have an incredible M3. Cant wait to see pictures of that bad boy!

Best Regards,
Mike

 

[KawBoy]

Fausto,

I know what you mean about driving in Italy. Here in Germany everything is by the book no exceptions.

Dr. Pain (Claude) brought up an excellent suggestion on the use of Spotless. Wait till you use Iron-X and see the reaction on white paint!

It would be a great idea to pick up a smaller polisher for intricate areas. The mini Griots 3" (GG3) is great for this. Equip it with 3" pads.

Sounds like you have an incredible M3. Cant wait to see pictures of that bad boy!

Best Regards,
Mike

Mike,

Should I expect to see red bleeding on my car? I mean, it look pretty good, just don't know what to expect. Now I really want to wash my car!

Will get a mini Griots as well.

Thank you again sir!

Brgds,

Ff

 

[KawBoy]

Let's see if this works...

 

[Mike@DedicatedPerfection]

Mike,

Should I expect to see red bleeding on my car? I mean, it look pretty good, just don't know what to expect. Now I really want to wash my car!

Will get a mini Griots as well.

Thank you again sir!

Brgds,

Ff

Fausto,

Depending on the level of fallout contamination on the car determines how much color change you will see when the iron-X reacts.

When you have all your tools and products come in, plan on a full detail. This way you can do it all at once.

That M3 looks great! It could stand to benefit from a proper polishing session.

Best Regards,
Mike.

 

[Mike@DedicatedPerfection]

Here are some links of work that I have completed while in Vegas. The first one is silver and you can see the reaction on the wheels when sprayed with a iron attacking wheel cleaner.

http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum...-s-detail-shop-09-bmw-335i-sedan-oc2-0-a.html

This is a good friends car that I took car of when it needed any work including maintenance.

http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum...detail-shop-preps-white-3-series-oc2-0-a.html

http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum...mike-recoats-white-3-series-front-bumper.html

Here it is displayed in Bimmerfest in the LTmotorworks area....

http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/off-topic/65074-my-coverage-bimmerfest-west-2013-a.html

 

[KawBoy]

Fausto,

Depending on the level of fallout contamination on the car determines how much color change you will see when the iron-X reacts.

When you have all your tools and products come in, plan on a full detail. This way you can do it all at once.

That M3 looks great! It could stand to benefit from a proper polishing session.

Best Regards,
Mike.

Mike,

I will try to take pics of the car when I finally have the chance to wash it. Should I apply the Spotless before the iron-X or it doesn't matter?

I am sure this polishing session is going to take a long time. I might have to invite a friend over!

Will take some pics of the interior of the car. It has the BMW Performance Electronic Steering Wheel and full Silver Novillo leather (more like a bluish color).

Thank you Mike.

Brgds,

Ff

 

[KawBoy]

Here are some links of work that I have completed while in Vegas. The first one is silver and you can see the reaction on the wheels when sprayed with a iron attacking wheel cleaner.

http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum...-s-detail-shop-09-bmw-335i-sedan-oc2-0-a.html

This is a good friends car that I took car of when it needed any work including maintenance.

http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum...detail-shop-preps-white-3-series-oc2-0-a.html

http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum...mike-recoats-white-3-series-front-bumper.html

Here it is displayed in Bimmerfest in the LTmotorworks area....

http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/off-topic/65074-my-coverage-bimmerfest-west-2013-a.html

Just amazing Mike! I wish you were in Florida! Very nice job, great job. Really cool.

 

[Mike@DedicatedPerfection]

Mike,

I will try to take pics of the car when I finally have the chance to wash it. Should I apply the Spotless before the iron-X or it doesn't matter?

I am sure this polishing session is going to take a long time. I might have to invite a friend over!

Will take some pics of the interior of the car. It has the BMW Performance Electronic Steering Wheel and full Silver Novillo leather (more like a bluish color).

Thank you Mike.

Brgds,

Ff

Sounds good. I would get the car washed, iron-X, clay, and then do spotless. This way the paint is thoroughly decontaminated.

Here is a nice review fellow forum member Troy did on Spotless.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/product-reviews/80103-product-review-carpro-spotless.html

Oh nice! Cant wait to see pics of the interior.

Just amazing Mike! I wish you were in Florida! Very nice job, great job. Really cool.

Thank you sir! Would love to be there to give you a hand.

 

[KawBoy]

Sounds good. I would get the car washed, iron-X, clay, and then do spotless. This way the paint is thoroughly decontaminated.

Here is a nice review fellow forum member Troy did on Spotless.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/product-reviews/80103-product-review-carpro-spotless.html

Mike, I will follow the steps you recommended. And thanks for the review

Member swanicyouth mentioned about getting a Griots 6" DA with a 2 & 7/8" / 3.5" and 5" BP to use at smaller areas. I see Griots have the mini and the 6"; should I get the mini or the 6" with the BP swanicyouth mentioned?

Thank you Mike.

Brgds,

Ff

 

[cardaddy]

good to see ya' really active in this one Smack....er Mike!

I wouldn't recommend a Rupes for your first DA for the simple fact that you will be locked into > 5.5" pads. This is assuming your not buying a Mini to go with it - then your talking $$$.

Really glad to see this post! Can't believe anyone didn't say something sooner.

Fausto,

If you *really* want to get a Rupes, get the Duetto. The others are just too hard to work with on all but totally flat panels. (And even then you absolutely need to do the washer mod.) Come to think of it, the washer mod makes the Duetto act more like a normal DA and keeps it from stalling at every bend.

Even Mike Phillips made the statement that he never really jumped on the Rupes train, but for the Duetto he not only was on the train but would be the conductor. (Not verbatim but pretty close.) :dblthumb2:

For my money, as a new guy getting in..... get the GG6 and a 5" backing plate, along with a 3½/4" backing plate. There are many a "pro" detailer out there working with the GG6 for years now and believe me, that puppy doesn't bog down, doesn't stop spinning, doesn't need "washer mods", and has a lifetime warranty. Spend the extra $$ on pads, lots of pads (at least a dozen if not 2 dozen). Get 5½" pads of all colors! Get 6 orange, 8 or so white (because you can use white for more things than anything else), maybe 2~3 yellow, 3 each blue, black, red. That'll do anything you run across, including ultra hard white paint.

Also you might do well to look at the Meguiar's 5" Microfiber Paint Correction System. It'll have D300 & D301 along with a system matched backing plate, 2 cutting and 2 finishing pads and even a snazzy Meguiar's detailing apron. D300 is REALLY GOOD STUFF!rops:

I know Mike said Wolfgang over Menzerna (although Menzerna makes Wolfgang for Autogeek) but honestly..... I don't know anyone here (or elsewhere) that has a problem with Menzerna and a DA style buffer. I know I've used everything from 400 to 4000 up to and including Finishing Wax on GG and Rupes machines just fine.

Then go and get several dozen good GOOD towels. Minimum 360 GSM dual-plush, that you can find at several dedicated towel vendors and save a TON over "detailing sites"! You'll get all sorts of input here on that, mainly two towel websites come to the top. Personally I like Microfiber Tech a LOT better, but do have a few of The Rag Co.'s towels as well.

Welcome to the obsession though.... it'll only get worse.

 

[KawBoy]

good to see ya' really active in this one Smack....er Mike!




Really glad to see this post! Can't believe anyone didn't say something sooner.

Fausto,

If you *really* want to get a Rupes, get the Duetto. The others are just too hard to work with on all but totally flat panels. (And even then you absolutely need to do the washer mod.) Come to think of it, the washer mod makes the Duetto act more like a normal DA and keeps it from stalling at every bend.

Even Mike Phillips made the statement that he never really jumped on the Rupes train, but for the Duetto he not only was on the train but would be the conductor. (Not verbatim but pretty close.) :dblthumb2:

For my money, as a new guy getting in..... get the GG6 and a 5" backing plate, along with a 3½/4" backing plate. There are many a "pro" detailer out there working with the GG6 for years now and believe me, that puppy doesn't bog down, doesn't stop spinning, doesn't need "washer mods", and has a lifetime warranty. Spend the extra $$ on pads, lots of pads (at least a dozen if not 2 dozen). Get 5½" pads of all colors! Get 6 orange, 8 or so white (because you can use white for more things than anything else), maybe 2~3 yellow, 3 each blue, black, red. That'll do anything you run across, including ultra hard white paint.

Also you might do well to look at the Meguiar's 5" Microfiber Paint Correction System. It'll have D300 & D301 along with a system matched backing plate, 2 cutting and 2 finishing pads and even a snazzy Meguiar's detailing apron. D300 is REALLY GOOD STUFF!rops:

I know Mike said Wolfgang over Menzerna (although Menzerna makes Wolfgang for Autogeek) but honestly..... I don't know anyone here (or elsewhere) that has a problem with Menzerna and a DA style buffer. I know I've used everything from 400 to 4000 up to and including Finishing Wax on GG and Rupes machines just fine.

Then go and get several dozen good GOOD towels. Minimum 360 GSM dual-plush, that you can find at several dedicated towel vendors and save a TON over "detailing sites"! You'll get all sorts of input here on that, mainly two towel websites come to the top. Personally I like Microfiber Tech a LOT better, but do have a few of The Rag Co.'s towels as well.

Welcome to the obsession though.... it'll only get worse.

Tony,

Yeah, Mike is spending a great deal of time giving me great advice.

I don't have to have the RUPES; at first I thought it was a better machine, but later on I realized it is just different, but not necessarily better.I didn't even noticed there was a Duetto! Now, would a Duetto take small pads for those smaller panels? Or would I still need to get a second polisher for that?

The GG is getting my attention and you have a good point there on the savings. However, it looks like the wifey bought me a polisher and I suspect it is a RUPES. If this really happened, I hope I am getting the Duetto!
I am more worried about getting something that would work for flat panels and corners and small parts and whatever else. My cars are fairly new and the paint is in OK condition and I am always going to be an amateur, meaning not very frequent use of the polisher as you pro guys use.

I also know nothing on pads. Micro fiber pads, something else pads... incredible.

Mike is also a fan of Menzerna and it looks like I am going that way. I am sure the Meguiar's stuff is also pretty good, but I need to focus on one brand and stick with it, at least for now. Menzerna or Wolfgang. Thing is, you guys can do miracles with whatever you get your hands on.

And now you put yet another variable into the equation: towels! I am now going to search about the towels you mentioned! See what I mean? This detailing thing is just too vast.

I am just afraid I start detailing my cars and like doing so... only I know where a new hobby will take me.

Thank you very much for your inputs; I really appreciate you sharing your thoughts and experience.

Brgds,

Ff

 

[Mike@DedicatedPerfection]

Member swanicyouth mentioned about getting a Griots 6" DA with a 2 & 7/8" / 3.5" and 5" BP to use at smaller areas. I see Griots have the mini and the 6"; should I get the mini or the 6" with the BP swanicyouth mentioned?

Thank you Mike.

Brgds,

Ff

Your best bet is to have two machines. One outfitted with the larger pads for the majority of work and then a smaller machine equipped with smaller pads for intricate areas.

For the sake of simplicity say, the larger Griots 6" machine outfitted with 5.5 pads for the majority of the car. Then a seperate smaller machine like the mini Griots equipped with 3" pads. Now which two machines you dedicate for larger and smaller areas is up to you.

I have the PE14 Flex rotary and of course the Flex 3401. I use either machine and equip it as neccesssary to accomplish what I need to do. For the smaller areas I equip the PE14 with 3" pads for precision.

good to see ya' really active in this one Smack....er Mike!

Really glad to see this post! Can't believe anyone didn't say something sooner.

Welcome to the obsession though.... it'll only get worse.

Thanks for weighing in on your thoughts as well Tony. Nice to see someone elses input on this thread.

I agree with what you said and just cut out your response so it doesn't waste space.