Which buffer pads to use, scratch fix and the buffing/waxing process questions

VTSeaRay

Active Member
Feb 19, 2008
1,905
Northern Vermont / SW FL
Boat Info
2007 210 Select w/5.0L 260HP MPI Mercruiser Alpha 1
Engines
8 cyl 5.0 Merc mpi, w/alpha 1 with 19" prop, with the speedo hole on the leading edge just above it
Ok, so the temps are warming up, the ice is starting to thaw, and I'm ready to get the boat ready for the lake. At the end of last season, I noticed a slight amount of chalking on the top deck near where my dock covers don't cover. Last year was the first year I've had the boat out in the sun all season. :( I was also remiss last summer and only gave it one good waxing (using zaino - zainobrothers.com - zaino 2 - that I've used for 15+ years on boats/vehicles, etc.) I usually do one beginnig and end of season, this time, just beginning. I also got two slight scratches on one side where we came into a dock that had hardware exposed last summer and it scratched it in the waves after we pulled up alongside. (I'll see if I can get some pics of this - but it's just deep enough to feel it with my thumbnail over it)

So, what to do and how to do it? I've got a porter cable rotary buffer 7624 I think is the model, and a few orange/black/white pads if I recall. I'm not sure which is softer/more aggressive, so, looking for some guidance. I've got Meguiaers #45 and some Finesse it II in my detailing tub. I'll probably cover it at the end with Zaino 2 again. Incredible stuff, check out their page. and testimonials.

So, recommendations on how to tackle this (Todd, Jeremy?), should I buy new pads, if so, what/where, and recommended procedure to go after it if possible.

Thanks,
VtSeaRay
 
Last edited:
Sounds like you have good experience. My advice on the chalked areas. Clean area well with 3m Sharpshooter. Use gloves! This will get you to a clean surface. Then Use a variable speed Buffer like Milwaukee and a good quality lambs wool pad for cutting. A decent heavy compound will come out in two passes. Then using a clean foam pad use Malco bufflite II. The swirl marks will go way, Your glass will glow. I personally recommend Colinite 885 wax buffed on and removed the minute you put on with a large microfiber. We have a 05' and get compliments on the NEW boat every season. Happy Boating! Sore shoulders!
 
Well a rotary buffer (I have a Makita 9227C) is the way to start with something like like the Meguiars #67 or 49 or Finesse it II. They have a diminishing compound and it'll lay down nicely yielding a good shine. The Porter cable 7424 is a DA (random orbital) and does great with the diminishing compounds too, but even better a polish. I like Starbrite PTEF Polish.

I keep new dedicated pads for each product. My three steps are 3M super duty compound on the rotary, then Finesse it II, then polish. I'm due to do mine here this spring. I've just been way to busy with work and haven't been on here much either.

Best of luck!
 

Forum statistics

Threads
112,950
Messages
1,422,862
Members
60,932
Latest member
juliediane
Back
Top