FAQ's
Can UHD Polishing Compound be used with a Dual Action (DA) machine polisher?
Yes, we would recommend using a DA, especially for less experienced users of machine polishers.
Can UHD Polishing Compound be used with a Rotary machine polisher?
Yes, however it is best that you have experience in using this tool as to avoid any permanent/serious damage to your paintwork.
What is a Polishing Compound and why would I use it?
A polishing compound is a mildly abrasive chemical that is designed to be used with a machine polisher. A polishing compound would be used to remove swirl marks and defects from the vehicle paintwork it will also provide a smooth, shiny finish.
Can I apply UHD Polishing Compound by hand?
No, as this product performs best when used with a machine polisher. If you are looking for another solution by hand please refer to Super Resin Polish, Scratch Remover and/or Paint Renovator.
A lot of dust is created during the polishing process
This may be due to excess polish residue which has built up on the pad over time. After polishing, ensure any compound residue is scraped off the pad and disposed of. The pad can also be washed using warm or cold water. Allow to dry thoroughly before use.
The product is drying out and becoming difficult to use
This can be experienced as a result of poor lubrication or hard deposits of the compound becoming difficult to work in. The problem may occur when using a brand new pad without sufficient product, or when too large an area is being worked with the product. This may also occur if the product is being used in warm conditions or if the machine speed is too high.
When using a brand new pad, ensure you use a little extra product to ‘prime’ the pad. On a primed pad we recommend 3 pea size drops of product. Do not attempt to work an area that is too large – the product should easily spread across the entire worked area and should visibly break down into a translucent compound. Avoid using the product in direct sunlight. Ideally it should be used indoors in a dust-free environment
How safe is UHD Polishing Compound?
UHD Polishing Compound has been designed to be as safe as possible whilst still being able to remove defects and achieve an outstanding gloss finish. There are a few things to ensure before starting to avoid causing damage…
- Do not use on matt paintwork
- Do not use in direct sunlight or if the bodywork is hot
- Do not use on surfaces that may become hot quickly
- Work up to swage lines, badges, delicate trim and difficult to reach areas
- Work on a small area at a time, continuously moving the pad in a horizontal motion – do not keep the pad moving in one area for an extended time
- Wash the vehicle with a Shampoo and decontaminate the paintwork by clay bar or Magma.
Can I use UHD Compound on damaged paint? For example where stone chips or deep scratches are present?
No. By using a machine polisher on these areas it could create further problems
What machine do you recommend?
If you are planning to first start using a machine polisher we would recommend using a dual action (DA) machine polisher over a rotary machine.
For experienced users familiar with rotary machines we recommend a Flex XFE 7-15 150 Random Orbital Polisher and the PE 14-2 150 Variable Speed Rotary.
What speed should I use?
Start at a low speed and raise the speed until the product becomes translucent. For an orbital – Start slowly to spread product evenly, work at lower speed settings initially that do not produce too much vibration and raise the speed level until the product becomes translucent.
Can it remove scratches?
Scratches are completely subjective. If you can feel them with your nail…no although they may improve. It is possible to remove lighter scratches that are located in the upper layers of the clear coat such as bush whip marks, swirls etc.
Is it safe on all paint types?
Yes apart from matt paint. Solid single stage paints will result in colour transfer onto the buffing pads.
Can I use it on painted plastic bumpers?
It can be used on plastic bumpers and other plastic panels but low speeds are recommended.
How long can I safely work a panel?
There is no definitive answer to this but the following guidelines should be followed:
The compound stops being as effective after approximately 1 ½ to 2 minutes, after this time if more rectification is required it is advisable to add more product to the pad rather than keep buffing.
If the panel becomes too hot – stop
Can I used UHD Polishing Compound to remove wet sanding marks?
No
Can I used UHD Compound with different pads?
Yes the compound is very versatile and will work with most pads.
Is it safe to use on my resprayed vehicle?
Proceed with caution. If the job has been completed to a professional standard then it is fine. But if you have any doubts or are worried then proceed with extreme caution testing a small area or leave it altogether.
Should I use UHD compound before waxing or ceramic coating my car?
Yes this will create a perfect base for applying either product.
How many pads do I need to cover a full vehicle?
Depends on the condition of the vehicle and what you’re trying to achieve. Light surface prep or gloss enhancement 1 finishing pad. Swirl removal and gloss enhancement 1 medium pad and 1 finishing pad.
I can’t move the dried out UHD from area I’ve just buffed
Spray with water and wipe away.