Mike Phillips
06-05-2015, 04:11 PM
Griot's Garage NEW BOSS Paint Polishing System (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/new-car-care-products/92251-griots-garage-new-boss-paint-polishing-system.html)
I'm a machine guy, that is I know the best results when it comes to creating a true show car finish or even doing production detailing are achieved by machine, not by hand.
I used to be there were only two machines available for detailing cars, they were the rotary buffer or an old school orbital polisher. These tools looked like this,
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95323
Since the 1980's a lot of new types of tools have been introduced to the detailing industry and most of them have offered more capabilities than the basic rotary buffer and traditional orbital buffer. There has also been a HUGE improvement in pad options as well as compound, polish and wax options in the detail industry that makes it easy for anyone to get professional results even their first time.
So when Meghan asked me to test out a new tool and a new paint polishing system of course I was interested and excited!
The new tool and paint polishing system is from Griot's Garage and it's called,
THE BOSS
BOSS = Best of Show System
She also volunteered her BLACK 2014 Silverado to be the Guinea Pig. Everyone knows black is the best color for testing out any type of compound, polish or even cleaner/wax as black shows everything.
A system approach
Anyone that's read any of my posts or articles since I started posting to the Internet in 1994 knows two words I continually use in my posts when answering questions about polishing paint and those two words are,
abrasive technology
While some guys will say,
Technique is number #1
I always politely disagree. The most important factor as it relates to getting high quality, swirl-free and haze-free results when machine polishing or even hand polishing modern, scratch-sensitive clearcoat paints is the abrasive technology being used in the paint care products. This would include the compounds, polishes and cleaner/waxes or cleaner/sealants if the protection ingredients in the product are synthetic and not an actually natural wax, because it is these categories of products that contain abrasives to correct and polish paint.
It is the abrasives that touch the paint first. Not the pad, not the tool and not the technique.
A person may be the best detailer that has ever lived on earth with the highest level of skill, experience and technique but if the compounds and polishes they are using are antiquated then despite their best efforts they cannot create a perfect, defect free finish and that's all due to the abrasive technology in the products they are using.
The standard I use for compounds and polishes is a swirl and haze free finish on black paint. There are many good brands on the market today that are capable of removing defects out of clearcoat paints without leaving their own defects behind. It is these products that I use as benchmarks to test other compounds and polishes. Simply put... now days... a company either has good abrasive technology or they don't and a little testing on black paint will tell the story.
Seeing Griot's was introducing a system and not just a tool is exciting because it's not very often major players in this industry introduce all three components as a system,
Tool
Products
Pads
My guess is with my old friend and co-worker from my Meguiar's days, Jeff Brown now on staff at Griot's Garage, that Jeff has done his homework and Griot's would not be launching such an ambitious new system unless they were already certain how the system performs.
So "yeah" having Meghan bring two huge boxes into Autogeek's Show Car Garage and ask me to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement before I can even open the boxes gets me excited because while I'm all about detailing cars inside and out anyone that really knows me knows I'm mostly a paint polisher and I don't make any excuses or apologies for this because it's the paint that makes or breaks a great looking car. And as everyone reading this review knows, there are good detailers and their are hack detailers and it's the good detailers that can take a diamond in the rough and turn it into a glistening gemstone and that's what I've always been all about. I even use this phrase in the introduction of my how-to book (http://www.autogeek.net/how-to-create-a-show-car-shine-book.html).
Credibility
So after signing the disclaimer form I opened the boxes and while I was excited to see and test out the new tools, pads and products I tempered my excitement with real-world experience because I know my standards are high and other new tools, pads and products that have tried to enter the market place have fallen short in the past.
One thing Griot's has going for it though that keeps me optimistic is the man behind the name, Richard Griot. I've known Richard professionally for about 10+ years now having first met him at the annual Mecca of all car shows the SEMA show that takes place the first week of November where tens of thousands of hard-core car enthusiast make the trek to see what's new in the automotive world.
Richard Griot is a leader in the car detailing industry because he's driven by his passion for perfection not a passion for making money. Nothing wrong with money as it's just a tool we all use conduct our lives. But I've met people that have wanted to get into the car appearance industry in some fashion or another where their primary goal was to make money, not help others with their car detailing projects. These people never last. Richard on the other hand endures the test of time because he's true to his passion and that results in high quality products that benefit the car hobby and the professional detailing industry and that would also induce you and me.
Richard Griot models his business strategy after this famous quote,
"Strive for perfection in everything. Take the best that exists and make it better, if it doesn't exist created it. Accept nothing nearly right or good enough"
- Sir Henry Royce
While some of you may not recognized the name Sir Henry Royce, most of you will recognize the names and brand behind Sir Henry Royce,
Rolls-Royce
Sir Frederick Henry Royce was an English Engineer and car designer who, with Charles Rolls, founded the Rolls-Royce company. Richard Griot uses this quote to run his business by as well as inspire and challenge his employees throughout his company.
So now that I've introduced the man behind the company, let's take a look at the tools and products he sent me in the two large boxes. First the key components... the tools!
Long Orbit Stroke Polishers
Griot's new long throw orbital polishers are Griot's versions of the long throw orbital polishers made popular by Rupes. Griot's states they have taken the best ideas from Rupes proven long orbit throw polishers and then designed their own version from the ground up.
Griot's long orbit stroke Boss polishers were developed from in-house drawings and specifications. They were then drafted using CAD or Computer Assisted Design to maintain maximum precision tolerances and quality. These new Griot's long stroke orbital polishers have undergone extensive field testing and currently there is a patent pending for their design.
Each tool comes in a box which contains the tool and all of its accessories.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95259
Here's a beauty shot of the entire BOSS system.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95269
This is the G21 - A long orbit stroke polisher with a 21mm stroke length
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95270
This is the G15 - A long orbit stroke polisher with a 15mm stroke length.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95272
Technical Specs
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/2862/Griots_Boss_054.jpg
Currently there are two models to choose from, the G15 with a 15mm orbit stroke length and the G21 with a 21mm orbit stroke length. While the orbit stroke length is different as well as the counterweights, besides these two primary characteristics these two tools share many of the same design features.
• Both tools use a 7.5 amp 900 watt motor that uses high quality NSK premium ball bearings for support and longevity.
• The counter balances are precision machined from steel not stamped or cast.
• The variable speed dial offers a range from a minimum speed of 0 OPM to a max speed of 5000 OPM.
• Power is controlled using a plunger style trigger which offers the user the full range of available power and speed after the variable speed dial has been set by simply feathering the trigger. This is a feature that a lot of both pro detailers and weekend warriors appreciate.
• Convenient side mounted trigger lock to lock trigger in place during extended buffing cycles.
• Power cord is a heavy duty 16 AWG Rubber Cord, not vinyl. It also incorporates a gusseted cord support to relieve cord strain where the cord enters the body.
• The forward grip station uses a Griot's designed Platypus Grip of double-shot rubber.
• The rear grip station uses a Pistol Grip design using double-shot rubber.
• The mid-grip stations in the middle of the tool body also use double-shot rubber.
• The backing plates are drilled for better cooling via air flow, strength and to reduce weight.
•On each side of the tool are quick access ports to replace brushes.
Backing Plates - Washer Mod - Silicone Lubricant
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95316
Backing Plates
There are two backing plate options for the Griot's BOSS long stroke orbit polishers. The stock configuration for the G15 includes a 5" backing plate for use with the Griot's 5.5" pads. The stock configuration for the G21 includes a 6" backing plate for use with Griot's 6.5" pads.
For those that would like to use the smaller 5" backing plate and 6" pads with the longer orbit stroke length of the G21 Griot's states that is perfectly acceptable and with their design and the 5" and 6" backing plates are both compatible for use with either machine. This lets you the user determine which size pad to use with either machine.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95260
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95261
Washer Mod
The rubber shroud surrounding the counterweight serves three purposes.
1. Prevents injury by preventing the user from getting their fingers close to the spinning counterweight assembly during operation.
2. Prevents over revving of the backing plate and thus over-revving of the buffing pads when the tool is held in the air in the on position at high speed.
3. Prevents dirt and other foreign matter from getting to the counterweight, bearings and other rotating assemblies.
It's thought by some that the rubber shroud will also interfere or hinder maximum pad rotation/oscillation due to contact between the rubber shroud and the baking plate. To overcome this possibility, Griot's pre-lubricates the rubber shroud using a heat resistant silicone lubricant. Griot's also includes a washer or shim that is pre-cut and ready to install on the top face of the spindle. The stainless steel washer will increase the distance between the backing plate and the edge of the shroud to ensure there is no interference with pad rotation and oscillation.
Note this modification is user preference, you don't have to install the washer but should you so choose to make this modification the washer is included and the pictures below show how to install the washer correctly.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95263
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95264
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95265
Align the backing plate
Be sure when replacing the backing plate to align the two straight sides of the recessed slot on the backing plate with the two sides of the washer and the spindle as this is important for proper tool function.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95266
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95267
Tighten the hex head bolt.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95268
BOSS Buffing Pads
The pad system for the BOSS long orbit stroke orbital polishers is simple and straightforward and the color coding is instinctive relative to the majority of color codes used in the buffing pad market.
The pads come in both 5.5" for use with the 5" backing plate and 6.5" pads for use with the 6" backing plates.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95271
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95273
The Buffing Pad Color Codes
In order from the most aggressive to the least aggressive
Black Micro Fiber Pad - The fastest and most aggressive pad option for use with the BOSS correcting and perfecting creams for removing serious paint defects while still finishing out to an acceptable finish.
White Foam Fast Correcting Pad - This is a firm euro-foam cutting pad that offers fast defect removal using either other the correction creams to remove moderate to severe paint defects.
Orange Foam Correcting Pad - This is a firm euro-foam cutting pad for use with the correcting creams to remove light to moderate paint defects.
Yellow Foam Perfecting Pad - This is a multi-purpose foam polishing pad to use with the perfecting cream to remove light defects and impart a flawless finish.
Black Foam Finishing Pad - This is an ultra soft foam finishing pad for use with the BOSS Finishing Sealant to finish and protect all paint systems.
Micro Fiber Pad Technical Specs
Plush-nap micro fiber -10mm
Dynamic amplifies polishes & compounds correcting capabilities = Improves productivity.
Adaptive to vehicle contours = Smooth operation.
Finishes extremely well = Reduced subsequent steps.
Foam free
High pad rotation for increase paint correction = Improved productivity.
Extremely durable = Saves money.
Premium Velcro™ Loop
Long-lasting engagement = Extended pad life.
Optimized for backing plate hook = Saves money.
Thermo-set bonding
Extremely durable = Extended pad life.
Foam Pad Technical Specs
8mm or 5/8" pad thickness
Increased transfer of energy = Increased defect removal ability.
Lower center of gravity = Improved stability under speed.
Reduced weight with an average of 19 grams = Smooth operation.
Reduced liquid capacity = Increased durability
Reticulated open cell foam
Open cell for better heat dissipation = Cooler operating temperatures.
Increased durability = Less pads for each job and pads last longer.
Sustained correcting power = Longer effectiveness throughout the buffing cycle.
Chamfered edge
Maximizes pad face contact during operation = Improves productivity
Safety perimeter between paint and backing plate - Eliminates potential damage from backing plate.
Center hole
Significant reduction in heat build-up = Eliminates common pad dishing issues.
Premium loop attachment
Long-lasting engagement = Economical
Optimized for backing plate micro-hooks - Increased durability.
Thermo-set bond
Impervious to heat and/or chemicals = Machine washable & extremely durable.
Color coded
Intuitively communicates aggressiveness or non-aggressiveness = Eliminates guesswork.
Optional Innerflex pads
The Griot's BOSS Innerflex pad is a foam cushion interface pad with micro-hooks on one side and matching loop material on the other side so you can attach it between the backing plate and your choice of BOSS buffing pad.
This flexible foam Innerflex pad provides the following benefits,
Reduces the aggressiveness of any pad.
Helps the buffing pad to conform and contour to curved body panels helping to keep the entire face of the pad in contact with the surface of the panel being buffed.
Doubles the BOSS pad offering of 11 pads to 22 pad options.
Technical Specs
9.53mm or 3/8" thick reticulated soft foam core
Reduces energy transfer = Detunes pad to diminish cutting ability.
Conforms to panel contours = Ideal for less experienced users.
Smart heat management-lightening holds
Reduces pad temperature build-up - Extends pad life and improves paint finishing.
Maintains optimum system weight - Ensures smooth operation.
Premium hook & loop attachment
Lon-lasting engagement = economical.
Loop material optimized for backing plate hook design.
Thermo-set bonding
Extremely durable = Extends Innerflex life = Economical
Boss Creams
Like the buffing pad system, the creams, i.e. compounds, polishes and sealants are simple and straightforward.
Two compounds
There are what I would call two compounds, a heavy or fast cutting compound and standard cutting compound. Because the most important step when correcting paint is the actual removal of the defects, Griot's offers the user two choices in compounds. This enables the user to choose and use the appropriate compound determined by,
The user's need for speed.
The user's preference to use the least aggressive product to get the job done.
One polish
There's a fine cut polish which can be used after either of the compounds to refine and perfect the results created by either of the compounds.
Sealing the paint
To seal the paint Griot's offers a finishing sealant which also contains very fine abrasives so that it can be used as a final sealant after polishing or it can be used like a fine cut cleaner/wax (cleaner/sealant for those that are AR about word usage on forums like AGO) to remove fine or shallow swirls and scratches when the user chooses not to use a multiple-step approach.
For what it's worth, a fine cutting cleaner/sealant like this one provided in the BOSS system is actually a perfect product for performing regular maintenance on daily drivers. The key word in the last sentence being regular maintenance. If you're machine sealing the paint with a product like this on a regular basis then any defects you're trying to remove are likely very shallow thus you don't need or want a heavy cutting cleaner/sealant.
Daily drivers are prone to a build-up of road grime when driven in rainy weather. The oily dirty film that is sprayed onto your car by the cars in front of you is easily removed with a light cutting cleaner/sealant. This restores optical clarity to the clearcoat finish which has the effect of brightening the colors as well as restoring a smooth, slick feel and appearance. At the end of my write-up I'll include a few links that share more on the importance of using cleaner/waxes and cleaner/sealants on daily drivers as well as a part of a profitable detail business.
From left to right are most aggressive to least aggressive...
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95274
Color Coding
If you look at the labels on the bottles pictures above you can see a colored buffing pad and this indicates the color of the pad the creams are generally recommended for use with. Of course there's room for other combinations of pads to product inside the Boss system.
The one-gallon containers are made using a translucent plastic and you can see that each of the products is colored to match the pad they are best intended to be used with.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95320
Color coding the pads and the chemicals makes it easy for you or any of your employees to match the right pad and product combination. It takes all of the guesswork out of product selection and in a production detailing shop reduces the chance for error.
Handle options
The BOSS comes with two handle option the user can choose from completely up to personal preference. Me? I don't like or use handles on most of the tools I own and use. That said, some people like handles and there are some applications where a handle is a huge help. The BOSS comes with your choice of,
Using only the forward grip station.
Using the stick handle.
Using the hoop handle - Bolts are included.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95275
Accessories
Each BOSS tool comes with,
Hex head wrench
Replacement brushes
Heat resistant silicone lubricant
Stainless steel washer (pictured above being installed)
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95276
These accessory items come in their own sealable pouch.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95262
Detailer's Bag
This rugged 600 denier nylon bag has ample room to hold your BOSS long stroke orbital polisher and plenty of pads, products and accessories.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95321
Work Flow Chart
Each polisher comes with a work flow chart that you can hang on the wall for quick reference for any of the tool, pads and product combinations for tackling any condition paint.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95312
:)
I'm a machine guy, that is I know the best results when it comes to creating a true show car finish or even doing production detailing are achieved by machine, not by hand.
I used to be there were only two machines available for detailing cars, they were the rotary buffer or an old school orbital polisher. These tools looked like this,
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95323
Since the 1980's a lot of new types of tools have been introduced to the detailing industry and most of them have offered more capabilities than the basic rotary buffer and traditional orbital buffer. There has also been a HUGE improvement in pad options as well as compound, polish and wax options in the detail industry that makes it easy for anyone to get professional results even their first time.
So when Meghan asked me to test out a new tool and a new paint polishing system of course I was interested and excited!
The new tool and paint polishing system is from Griot's Garage and it's called,
THE BOSS
BOSS = Best of Show System
She also volunteered her BLACK 2014 Silverado to be the Guinea Pig. Everyone knows black is the best color for testing out any type of compound, polish or even cleaner/wax as black shows everything.
A system approach
Anyone that's read any of my posts or articles since I started posting to the Internet in 1994 knows two words I continually use in my posts when answering questions about polishing paint and those two words are,
abrasive technology
While some guys will say,
Technique is number #1
I always politely disagree. The most important factor as it relates to getting high quality, swirl-free and haze-free results when machine polishing or even hand polishing modern, scratch-sensitive clearcoat paints is the abrasive technology being used in the paint care products. This would include the compounds, polishes and cleaner/waxes or cleaner/sealants if the protection ingredients in the product are synthetic and not an actually natural wax, because it is these categories of products that contain abrasives to correct and polish paint.
It is the abrasives that touch the paint first. Not the pad, not the tool and not the technique.
A person may be the best detailer that has ever lived on earth with the highest level of skill, experience and technique but if the compounds and polishes they are using are antiquated then despite their best efforts they cannot create a perfect, defect free finish and that's all due to the abrasive technology in the products they are using.
The standard I use for compounds and polishes is a swirl and haze free finish on black paint. There are many good brands on the market today that are capable of removing defects out of clearcoat paints without leaving their own defects behind. It is these products that I use as benchmarks to test other compounds and polishes. Simply put... now days... a company either has good abrasive technology or they don't and a little testing on black paint will tell the story.
Seeing Griot's was introducing a system and not just a tool is exciting because it's not very often major players in this industry introduce all three components as a system,
Tool
Products
Pads
My guess is with my old friend and co-worker from my Meguiar's days, Jeff Brown now on staff at Griot's Garage, that Jeff has done his homework and Griot's would not be launching such an ambitious new system unless they were already certain how the system performs.
So "yeah" having Meghan bring two huge boxes into Autogeek's Show Car Garage and ask me to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement before I can even open the boxes gets me excited because while I'm all about detailing cars inside and out anyone that really knows me knows I'm mostly a paint polisher and I don't make any excuses or apologies for this because it's the paint that makes or breaks a great looking car. And as everyone reading this review knows, there are good detailers and their are hack detailers and it's the good detailers that can take a diamond in the rough and turn it into a glistening gemstone and that's what I've always been all about. I even use this phrase in the introduction of my how-to book (http://www.autogeek.net/how-to-create-a-show-car-shine-book.html).
Credibility
So after signing the disclaimer form I opened the boxes and while I was excited to see and test out the new tools, pads and products I tempered my excitement with real-world experience because I know my standards are high and other new tools, pads and products that have tried to enter the market place have fallen short in the past.
One thing Griot's has going for it though that keeps me optimistic is the man behind the name, Richard Griot. I've known Richard professionally for about 10+ years now having first met him at the annual Mecca of all car shows the SEMA show that takes place the first week of November where tens of thousands of hard-core car enthusiast make the trek to see what's new in the automotive world.
Richard Griot is a leader in the car detailing industry because he's driven by his passion for perfection not a passion for making money. Nothing wrong with money as it's just a tool we all use conduct our lives. But I've met people that have wanted to get into the car appearance industry in some fashion or another where their primary goal was to make money, not help others with their car detailing projects. These people never last. Richard on the other hand endures the test of time because he's true to his passion and that results in high quality products that benefit the car hobby and the professional detailing industry and that would also induce you and me.
Richard Griot models his business strategy after this famous quote,
"Strive for perfection in everything. Take the best that exists and make it better, if it doesn't exist created it. Accept nothing nearly right or good enough"
- Sir Henry Royce
While some of you may not recognized the name Sir Henry Royce, most of you will recognize the names and brand behind Sir Henry Royce,
Rolls-Royce
Sir Frederick Henry Royce was an English Engineer and car designer who, with Charles Rolls, founded the Rolls-Royce company. Richard Griot uses this quote to run his business by as well as inspire and challenge his employees throughout his company.
So now that I've introduced the man behind the company, let's take a look at the tools and products he sent me in the two large boxes. First the key components... the tools!
Long Orbit Stroke Polishers
Griot's new long throw orbital polishers are Griot's versions of the long throw orbital polishers made popular by Rupes. Griot's states they have taken the best ideas from Rupes proven long orbit throw polishers and then designed their own version from the ground up.
Griot's long orbit stroke Boss polishers were developed from in-house drawings and specifications. They were then drafted using CAD or Computer Assisted Design to maintain maximum precision tolerances and quality. These new Griot's long stroke orbital polishers have undergone extensive field testing and currently there is a patent pending for their design.
Each tool comes in a box which contains the tool and all of its accessories.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95259
Here's a beauty shot of the entire BOSS system.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95269
This is the G21 - A long orbit stroke polisher with a 21mm stroke length
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95270
This is the G15 - A long orbit stroke polisher with a 15mm stroke length.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95272
Technical Specs
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/2862/Griots_Boss_054.jpg
Currently there are two models to choose from, the G15 with a 15mm orbit stroke length and the G21 with a 21mm orbit stroke length. While the orbit stroke length is different as well as the counterweights, besides these two primary characteristics these two tools share many of the same design features.
• Both tools use a 7.5 amp 900 watt motor that uses high quality NSK premium ball bearings for support and longevity.
• The counter balances are precision machined from steel not stamped or cast.
• The variable speed dial offers a range from a minimum speed of 0 OPM to a max speed of 5000 OPM.
• Power is controlled using a plunger style trigger which offers the user the full range of available power and speed after the variable speed dial has been set by simply feathering the trigger. This is a feature that a lot of both pro detailers and weekend warriors appreciate.
• Convenient side mounted trigger lock to lock trigger in place during extended buffing cycles.
• Power cord is a heavy duty 16 AWG Rubber Cord, not vinyl. It also incorporates a gusseted cord support to relieve cord strain where the cord enters the body.
• The forward grip station uses a Griot's designed Platypus Grip of double-shot rubber.
• The rear grip station uses a Pistol Grip design using double-shot rubber.
• The mid-grip stations in the middle of the tool body also use double-shot rubber.
• The backing plates are drilled for better cooling via air flow, strength and to reduce weight.
•On each side of the tool are quick access ports to replace brushes.
Backing Plates - Washer Mod - Silicone Lubricant
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95316
Backing Plates
There are two backing plate options for the Griot's BOSS long stroke orbit polishers. The stock configuration for the G15 includes a 5" backing plate for use with the Griot's 5.5" pads. The stock configuration for the G21 includes a 6" backing plate for use with Griot's 6.5" pads.
For those that would like to use the smaller 5" backing plate and 6" pads with the longer orbit stroke length of the G21 Griot's states that is perfectly acceptable and with their design and the 5" and 6" backing plates are both compatible for use with either machine. This lets you the user determine which size pad to use with either machine.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95260
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95261
Washer Mod
The rubber shroud surrounding the counterweight serves three purposes.
1. Prevents injury by preventing the user from getting their fingers close to the spinning counterweight assembly during operation.
2. Prevents over revving of the backing plate and thus over-revving of the buffing pads when the tool is held in the air in the on position at high speed.
3. Prevents dirt and other foreign matter from getting to the counterweight, bearings and other rotating assemblies.
It's thought by some that the rubber shroud will also interfere or hinder maximum pad rotation/oscillation due to contact between the rubber shroud and the baking plate. To overcome this possibility, Griot's pre-lubricates the rubber shroud using a heat resistant silicone lubricant. Griot's also includes a washer or shim that is pre-cut and ready to install on the top face of the spindle. The stainless steel washer will increase the distance between the backing plate and the edge of the shroud to ensure there is no interference with pad rotation and oscillation.
Note this modification is user preference, you don't have to install the washer but should you so choose to make this modification the washer is included and the pictures below show how to install the washer correctly.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95263
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95264
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95265
Align the backing plate
Be sure when replacing the backing plate to align the two straight sides of the recessed slot on the backing plate with the two sides of the washer and the spindle as this is important for proper tool function.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95266
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95267
Tighten the hex head bolt.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95268
BOSS Buffing Pads
The pad system for the BOSS long orbit stroke orbital polishers is simple and straightforward and the color coding is instinctive relative to the majority of color codes used in the buffing pad market.
The pads come in both 5.5" for use with the 5" backing plate and 6.5" pads for use with the 6" backing plates.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95271
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95273
The Buffing Pad Color Codes
In order from the most aggressive to the least aggressive
Black Micro Fiber Pad - The fastest and most aggressive pad option for use with the BOSS correcting and perfecting creams for removing serious paint defects while still finishing out to an acceptable finish.
White Foam Fast Correcting Pad - This is a firm euro-foam cutting pad that offers fast defect removal using either other the correction creams to remove moderate to severe paint defects.
Orange Foam Correcting Pad - This is a firm euro-foam cutting pad for use with the correcting creams to remove light to moderate paint defects.
Yellow Foam Perfecting Pad - This is a multi-purpose foam polishing pad to use with the perfecting cream to remove light defects and impart a flawless finish.
Black Foam Finishing Pad - This is an ultra soft foam finishing pad for use with the BOSS Finishing Sealant to finish and protect all paint systems.
Micro Fiber Pad Technical Specs
Plush-nap micro fiber -10mm
Dynamic amplifies polishes & compounds correcting capabilities = Improves productivity.
Adaptive to vehicle contours = Smooth operation.
Finishes extremely well = Reduced subsequent steps.
Foam free
High pad rotation for increase paint correction = Improved productivity.
Extremely durable = Saves money.
Premium Velcro™ Loop
Long-lasting engagement = Extended pad life.
Optimized for backing plate hook = Saves money.
Thermo-set bonding
Extremely durable = Extended pad life.
Foam Pad Technical Specs
8mm or 5/8" pad thickness
Increased transfer of energy = Increased defect removal ability.
Lower center of gravity = Improved stability under speed.
Reduced weight with an average of 19 grams = Smooth operation.
Reduced liquid capacity = Increased durability
Reticulated open cell foam
Open cell for better heat dissipation = Cooler operating temperatures.
Increased durability = Less pads for each job and pads last longer.
Sustained correcting power = Longer effectiveness throughout the buffing cycle.
Chamfered edge
Maximizes pad face contact during operation = Improves productivity
Safety perimeter between paint and backing plate - Eliminates potential damage from backing plate.
Center hole
Significant reduction in heat build-up = Eliminates common pad dishing issues.
Premium loop attachment
Long-lasting engagement = Economical
Optimized for backing plate micro-hooks - Increased durability.
Thermo-set bond
Impervious to heat and/or chemicals = Machine washable & extremely durable.
Color coded
Intuitively communicates aggressiveness or non-aggressiveness = Eliminates guesswork.
Optional Innerflex pads
The Griot's BOSS Innerflex pad is a foam cushion interface pad with micro-hooks on one side and matching loop material on the other side so you can attach it between the backing plate and your choice of BOSS buffing pad.
This flexible foam Innerflex pad provides the following benefits,
Reduces the aggressiveness of any pad.
Helps the buffing pad to conform and contour to curved body panels helping to keep the entire face of the pad in contact with the surface of the panel being buffed.
Doubles the BOSS pad offering of 11 pads to 22 pad options.
Technical Specs
9.53mm or 3/8" thick reticulated soft foam core
Reduces energy transfer = Detunes pad to diminish cutting ability.
Conforms to panel contours = Ideal for less experienced users.
Smart heat management-lightening holds
Reduces pad temperature build-up - Extends pad life and improves paint finishing.
Maintains optimum system weight - Ensures smooth operation.
Premium hook & loop attachment
Lon-lasting engagement = economical.
Loop material optimized for backing plate hook design.
Thermo-set bonding
Extremely durable = Extends Innerflex life = Economical
Boss Creams
Like the buffing pad system, the creams, i.e. compounds, polishes and sealants are simple and straightforward.
Two compounds
There are what I would call two compounds, a heavy or fast cutting compound and standard cutting compound. Because the most important step when correcting paint is the actual removal of the defects, Griot's offers the user two choices in compounds. This enables the user to choose and use the appropriate compound determined by,
The user's need for speed.
The user's preference to use the least aggressive product to get the job done.
One polish
There's a fine cut polish which can be used after either of the compounds to refine and perfect the results created by either of the compounds.
Sealing the paint
To seal the paint Griot's offers a finishing sealant which also contains very fine abrasives so that it can be used as a final sealant after polishing or it can be used like a fine cut cleaner/wax (cleaner/sealant for those that are AR about word usage on forums like AGO) to remove fine or shallow swirls and scratches when the user chooses not to use a multiple-step approach.
For what it's worth, a fine cutting cleaner/sealant like this one provided in the BOSS system is actually a perfect product for performing regular maintenance on daily drivers. The key word in the last sentence being regular maintenance. If you're machine sealing the paint with a product like this on a regular basis then any defects you're trying to remove are likely very shallow thus you don't need or want a heavy cutting cleaner/sealant.
Daily drivers are prone to a build-up of road grime when driven in rainy weather. The oily dirty film that is sprayed onto your car by the cars in front of you is easily removed with a light cutting cleaner/sealant. This restores optical clarity to the clearcoat finish which has the effect of brightening the colors as well as restoring a smooth, slick feel and appearance. At the end of my write-up I'll include a few links that share more on the importance of using cleaner/waxes and cleaner/sealants on daily drivers as well as a part of a profitable detail business.
From left to right are most aggressive to least aggressive...
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95274
Color Coding
If you look at the labels on the bottles pictures above you can see a colored buffing pad and this indicates the color of the pad the creams are generally recommended for use with. Of course there's room for other combinations of pads to product inside the Boss system.
The one-gallon containers are made using a translucent plastic and you can see that each of the products is colored to match the pad they are best intended to be used with.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95320
Color coding the pads and the chemicals makes it easy for you or any of your employees to match the right pad and product combination. It takes all of the guesswork out of product selection and in a production detailing shop reduces the chance for error.
Handle options
The BOSS comes with two handle option the user can choose from completely up to personal preference. Me? I don't like or use handles on most of the tools I own and use. That said, some people like handles and there are some applications where a handle is a huge help. The BOSS comes with your choice of,
Using only the forward grip station.
Using the stick handle.
Using the hoop handle - Bolts are included.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95275
Accessories
Each BOSS tool comes with,
Hex head wrench
Replacement brushes
Heat resistant silicone lubricant
Stainless steel washer (pictured above being installed)
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95276
These accessory items come in their own sealable pouch.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95262
Detailer's Bag
This rugged 600 denier nylon bag has ample room to hold your BOSS long stroke orbital polisher and plenty of pads, products and accessories.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95321
Work Flow Chart
Each polisher comes with a work flow chart that you can hang on the wall for quick reference for any of the tool, pads and product combinations for tackling any condition paint.
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/watermark.php?file=95312
:)