Buffing tools, equimpent and technique

[fender3x]

Thank you, guys. I am more or less OK getting through the sanding...but may stop at 1500 or 2000. Thank you for the very complete answers. They have prompted some more specific questions...

Cordless drill is always an option, and it has a slow speed...

I have a random orbital palm polisher. May be similar to the one you use for fronts and backs TD?



Mine is a 6" (153mm) that says it operates at 3500 OPM. I assume that's orbits. It definitely does not turn that fast. If yours is like mine, I'd be curious what "bonnets" or pads you use on it. Mine came with I kind of fuzzy hat. I'd be curious what sort of bonnet you use with yours, since think I will need to get a different bonnet for each grade of compound I use with it? I think they come in microfiber, fleece and "non-woven fabric" (whatever that is).

Also, since I haven't done this before...which compounds/polishes do you use?

Also with regard to the bonnets. I have been using them with McGuire's "Ultimate Compound" and then car wax (which I should probably stop using). Once finished I run the pad through the washing machine, so I haven't worried much about what's in it, but maybe I should have dedicated pads to each compound/polish I use?

I can use the drill, or just hand polish on the tighter spaces. I have not liked using it in the past. I have experimented a little, and actually burned off some finish around a cutaway. I think I tend to have two problems. One is having the body in one hand and the drill in the other...and then regulating speed and angle of the drill.

That takes me back to the drill press. On it's slowest setting, mine turns at 620 RPM, which is actually a little slower than the Stew Mac polisher. With a small foam polisher I might be able to use it for the inside the cutaways and sides. What do you think?

Thanks for your thoughts

[Trevor Davies]

...

I can use the drill, or just hand polish on the tighter spaces. I have not liked using it in the past. I have experimented a little, and actually burned off some finish around a cutaway. I think I tend to have two problems. One is having the body in one hand and the drill in the other...and then regulating speed and angle of the drill.

That takes me back to the drill press. On it's slowest setting, mine turns at 620 RPM, which is actually a little slower than the Stew Mac polisher. With a small foam polisher I might be able to use it for the inside the cutaways and sides. What do you think?

I have been thinking about the idea of using the drill press with a foam polisher - and cannot really come up with any negatives. At least you are only holding the guitar body, and the drill press will have a constant slow speed.

Thinking back to the first post, we should try to take advantage of the equipment we have! Definitely give it a go, but take it easy. I might try it as well!