3" pad on porter cable

[jminrod]

Started my car first time. Two bucket wash clayed it taped everything off and went to start the test spot opened my new porter cable but it says on one of the pieces Use 5" plate only, or something similar. Does this mean that I can't use the 3" backer and MF disc I have bought or does it mean I have to remove that part to use the 3" pads. Looking to finish the car tomorrow but it would be a lot of hand work if I can only use the 5" backing plate.

[bmwgalore]

Yes you can use a 3" plate on a PCxp, no problem. I have that with the Optimum Micro fiber 3.25" pads, works great!

Don't forget the plastic washer, and also keep in mind smaller pads cut a LOT faster than bigger pads, but 100% concentration is important...

Also, it's a lot easier to tip over the polisher and scratch the paint, another reason to pay attention.

[jminrod]

Sounds great. I'm not sure I seen a washer.

Do I need to remove the part that says 5" pads to use the 3" pads?

It has two phillips screws in it

[bmwgalore]

You mean this counter weight (http://www.autogeek.net/pccw.html)? No, just leave it there.

Without the plastic washer you will damage both the place and the polisher head.

[bmwgalore]

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/autogeek_2218_24317582

See this black ring around the treads? That's the spacer, you need it.

[jminrod]

Yes that was on there. And thanks so much for answering so quickly.

[BillE]

Just to add about the counter weight...these machines started their lives as a sander (they still are in reality), that is where the different counter-weights come into play. As mentioned above, for us 'buffers' just leave it as is.

Bill