Pad size for rotory

[Mike@DedicatedPerfection]

I would like to know what pad size to run on my new 849x. I havent gotten an actual plate for it yet but have considered the LC HT pad system for it.

I am running the 5.5 HT line on my D/A and absolutly love the combo. Wanted to get some opinions on what pads or pad line and size to run on my 849x. Also would the little wafer size 5.5 by 7/8 be to small for the rotory? Also want to get the 5 inch Flex foam backing plate.

[BillyJack]

There's almost no pad that's too small. Years ago the 8 or 9 inch pads were all we had for a rotary. Nowadays, I find it so much easier to use smaller pads, usually 6 inch, sometimes as small as 4 inch. With the wide choices available in backing plates, you can just get plates that will work with your current pad inventory.

Bill

[CEE DOG]

I like to use anything between 3" and 6".

3" Crimson HT pad with 85Rd on the door jams and tight spaces... Omg the pure joy of it!

[Mike@DedicatedPerfection]

How would my wafer 5.5 HT pads react on the rotory? Would the be to grabby?

[Trey T]

If it's smaller than 8", then it will work. The primary reason why you would use "rotary" tool vs a standard drill is the ergonomic/shape design; it's how you hold it and ability to control the rotation of the pad.

You can rig up an 8" wool pad and stick it onto a heavy duty drill but the amt of control and feature is limited.

When selecting pad size, the key is the 2'-by-2' work area but that's recommended for pad size like 6-7". The smaller the pad size, the work area should be smaller than 2'-by-2' to polish/cut effectively. This is the most fundamental idea when it comes to polishing/cutting.

[richy]

I use either 3 or 4" for the small areas and 5.5" for everything else. I have a flex bp for both 3" and 5".

[Mike@DedicatedPerfection]

Sounds good. I now have a 5 inch flex bp to run my 5.5 and it works great.

[Danube]

3" - 5.5" is all I use .. it covers everything on any car.

[acsuppa]

I use 6.5 for both my rotary and PC/DA. I plan on getting some smaller ones to try soon. For now the 6.5 work for me.

[Paul A.]

I'm aligned with CEE DOG, richy and danube on this. I fail to go any larger than 6 inch and mostly 5.5 and then down to 3 inch for the tighter spots. Love the full range though and on just about any vehicle.

I like the control of the smaller pads personally.