I've never air dried my MF towels so I cannot comment on it being a factor. I can tell you that I wash mine on warm and always use vinegar as a rinsing / softening agent as well as a second rinse...
I've been using force pads for quite a while now and prefer them over the hybrids. They last longer, run cooler, and are easy to line up on the first shot with the hole in the center.
Compounds and polishes for paint have worked just fine for me ever since I started doing corrections quite a while ago. I see no need for specialty polishes for headlights and taillights as of yet.
Hmmm, thats a tough one as I like both Sonax and Menz products. I'd say try both finish polishes and stick with the one that works longest, cleanest, and provides the best gloss for your paint.
There really is no need to mask off the decals so long as you tread lightly across them during the polishing process. I used to mask off vinyl graphics when I first started out and ran into the...
I've had excellent results using water based dressings and have never experienced any sling at all. The key is to apply in thin layers until you achieve the finish you want. For me I'm looking only...
Vinyl graphics shouldn't be any problem at all. Polish and wax right over them as if they were paint. Just be careful not to leave wax residue along the outer edges of the graphics! Lol!
What are you using for a polisher?
Stoner Tarminator is a must have! As far as pads and polishes, get yourself a bottle of Griots fast correction cream, a bottle of Griots perfecting cream, 4-6...
On tires with aggressive markings or sidewalk tread I use Perl in a fine mist spray bottle and just deal with wiping off overspray from the wheel. I get the most even coverage this way. Others use...
Next time, fill your bucket with a hot water and ONR solution. The hot water softens the rubber and the ONR provides lubrication which helps prevent marring.
I own and use Flex and Rupes machines. With that said, I always reach for a Flex when heavy cutting is needed. My Rupes machines did not play well with MF and wool pads. Couldn't get them to stay...