For "full restoration" (removing parts) I use a bench grinder and 4 wheels. 1 wheel for each numbered compound. And I use four sets of these gloves, also numbered. 1,2,4,5 And safety glasses. Use a sharpie to number the wheels, then use the following compounds. 1, 2, 4, 5 (I don't use 3) The numbering keeps from getting a larger grit compound on a finer polished part and causing blemishes. https://www.lowes.com/pd/PORTER-CAB...0wW3X_KXpjZTu9brR7MaAuDiEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds YOU MUST BE VERY CAREFUL THAT YOU DO NOT LET THE WHEEL "GRAB" THE PIECE AND TURN IT INTO A SLICING BLADE!!! That last warning cannot be stressed enough. If you do not understand the physical dynamic component of the spinning wheel, and the part being dressed, you will get a rude lesson in what happens. I try and do polishing first thing in the day before the "distractions" of the day fill my mind, and I will stop and put away the work the first instance I find I am losing focus. It might seem a bit "over the top", but you screw up one time, and at best, you are looking for a replacement of a twisted piece of trim, and at the worst, you need a "service monkey" to help you eat your meals. Trust me, you don't want a monkey poking food in yer face...
Headlight trim ring. 4 stitches above the eye. Split in the eye itself and a fractured eye socket. All in the blink of an eye.(pun unintended) Had been using full PPE. finished the piece, noticed one small spot that was missed after removing glasses and face shield. all I remember is a noise and a tug. Came to on the floor in a puddle of blood. That ring now hangs above the polisher as a reminder.
What types of wheels do you use? I can’t figure out what’s the best to start cutting with and then end polishing with. Flannel, cotton, sisal??? Thanks Nick
I used the Eastwood kit. I’ve used their kits for general polishing and the set for wheels too. Very easy to keep track of what wheel goes with what compound/metal.
I used these cheapies from Lowes. Yellow for 1 and 2 White for 4 and 5 https://www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-6-i...sma308_9G2XSxBEaYFhoCKl0QAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds And Brad and Steve are correct. My "gear" is not optimal, but it was Florida 95 degree weather, and I sweat profusely, so I went minimal. I would not suggest that.
I use 2 compounds and 2 wheels on my buffer. Step 1. Start with a thorough cleaning of the piece if a lot of scratches I slightly scuff with red scuff pad. Step 2 Then I buff on the stiffer wheel with the black emery compound bar . I wipe down the part after that see if any spots need more attention, if so repeat step two. Step 3. I move to the softer wheel and the White Rouge buff the entire piece clean and inspect repeat if you are not happy with the reflection. Practice on old bent stainless trim pieces and as mentioned by others Gloves , Patience , Safety Glasses or shield. No distractions while working at the wheel. Good Luck
