dlc95
03-29-2019, 10:28 PM
Full disclosure, I'm using the tools as intended from the manufacturer, with their proprietary pads and compounds. Of all the systems I have from Meguiar's, 3D, and Menzerna - on either the Flex 3401, or PC 7424, the Rupes system is typically winning in both cut, and finish. This makes for a very efficient process, saving a lot of time and energy. I've been using the two versions opposite each other since the summer of 2017. Today I was compelled to share my experiences.
The Coarse (Blue) pads:
Overall, the cut of the new pads is significantly reduced compared to the original. For example - I can compound all of the defects out of a given section completely with the original version in two, maybe three section passes. The new pads couldn't get the job done before the compound was exhausted. I eventually dialed in a process of two section cycles consisting of four section passes each. That's a total of eight passes with a pad cleaning and reloading in between compared to two or three total section passes the original pads + Zephir took. Finish was similar, cut was way off.
That was a very hard pill to swallow. Especially considering the originals aren't currently available.
The medium (yellow) pads:
Consistent with the cutting pads, defect removal was severely reduced. The original yellow pads were very effective for me in time saving one step applications. Again, defect removal could be completed in about three or four passes, excellent finish (most times. Some finishes would micromar). The new version took multiple passes, and after three section cycles, I had to switch back to the originals. I wanted to finish the job before next winter..
In conclusion, I'm definitely not a fan of these new versions. I use them on the PC a lot with M100, or M205, and they seem good in that situation, but as far as with the Zephir, and Keramik they incredibly inefficient for my situation.
The Coarse (Blue) pads:
Overall, the cut of the new pads is significantly reduced compared to the original. For example - I can compound all of the defects out of a given section completely with the original version in two, maybe three section passes. The new pads couldn't get the job done before the compound was exhausted. I eventually dialed in a process of two section cycles consisting of four section passes each. That's a total of eight passes with a pad cleaning and reloading in between compared to two or three total section passes the original pads + Zephir took. Finish was similar, cut was way off.
That was a very hard pill to swallow. Especially considering the originals aren't currently available.
The medium (yellow) pads:
Consistent with the cutting pads, defect removal was severely reduced. The original yellow pads were very effective for me in time saving one step applications. Again, defect removal could be completed in about three or four passes, excellent finish (most times. Some finishes would micromar). The new version took multiple passes, and after three section cycles, I had to switch back to the originals. I wanted to finish the job before next winter..
In conclusion, I'm definitely not a fan of these new versions. I use them on the PC a lot with M100, or M205, and they seem good in that situation, but as far as with the Zephir, and Keramik they incredibly inefficient for my situation.