LC Hybrid 5" Pad BP

[Zubair]

Hi All

I am planning on using my Lake Country Hybrid 5" pad but not sure whether to use my Lake Country 3.5" backing plate or my DA's 5" backing plate. What would be advisable? Also the pro's and con's of each?

[VISITOR]

The backing material on each pad is 4 inch, which makes it self-centering on the Flex XC3401 VRG Orbital Polisher equipped with the Changeable Backing Plate System. With all other applications, a 3.5 to 3 3/4 inch backing plate is suitable.

[Zubair]

Yeah, the 5" does look like its cutting it close hey? I was worried about the 3.5" not having enough hold/grip or pressure across the pad.

3.5" BP

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v257/Zubair/IMG_3442_zps9jhwfy2q.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/Zubair/media/IMG_3442_zps9jhwfy2q.jpg.html)


5" BP

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v257/Zubair/IMG_3440_zpsyws3v0jy.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/Zubair/media/IMG_3440_zpsyws3v0jy.jpg.html)

[aim4squirrels]

Which DA you using? Hybrid pads are pretty thick and not the best match for free spindle DAs. Thick pads absorb those machine's work output. Not saying they won't work at all, but it very well might take you longer.

If you have a flex, that's a different ballgame. Get the LC 4" plate and go to town. You'll enjoy that combo.

[Zubair]

Kestrel DAS 6 similar to PC and identicle to this :

Shurhold Dual Action Polisher, random orbital polisher, boat buffer (http://www.autogeek.net/shurhold-dual-action-polisher.html)

The hybrids are actually identicle in thickness to my LC Flat pads which work very well.

[aim4squirrels]

The cutting and polishing pads (orange and white) are firm enough to use the 3.5" plate just fine I would think. The black finishing pad should be fine if you're just applying a wax or sealant. Not sure how much you could bear down on it for any correction work without a bit of mushrooming on the edges.

Older LC flat pads were thick too, I've still got some of those myself. Thinner ones 7/8" or less have been out for a while that focus more of the machine's correcting ability to the paint. But, the hybrid pads should still get the job done. Ultimately, you run what you have, as anything should be better than going after it by hand.

Definitely keep on the upper OPMs with that combo.

[Zubair]

Thanks, just curious of results were I to use the 5" bp? Effects?

[aim4squirrels]

In tight places, the Velcro backing and edge of plate might hit the paint where the pad isn't. Sometimes on very small panels and body lines, you've got no choice but to use the edge of the pad. Mirrors, around some windows, license plate cut outs come to mind offhand. Depends on the car really.

Always better safe than sorry, IMO.

[Zubair]

Thanks 3.5" it is