Buffing tools, equimpent and technique

[fender3x]

I wonder if a low cost right-angle chuck adapter bolted to the platform securely and raised to meet the press’s chuck would give you some more freedom of movement. That is, assuming the right-angle would be robust enough to withstand the forces involved, particularly with perhaps a longer shaft on the buffing wheels etc.

That would be a much simpler and less invasive solution. I did a quick search and so far have not identified "cheap:" and "robust" in the same package. The bolt I am using fits the buffing wheel well and just barely fits in the 1/2" (13mm) chuck...but... If I can find a suitable adapter. It would eliminate the potential for wear and tear on the drill-press's bearings as well. If I can find a cheap enough adapter, it wouldn't matter much if it wears out. Besides the strain on the right angle adapter at 600-750 rpms has to be pretty minimal.

Putting this on my shopping list ;-) Thanks for the suggestion.

[fender3x]

I bought a $25 right angle adapter that I think I should be able to bolt on to the drill press table. Not sure the chuck is large enough, but for $25 it's worth a shot...

[fender3x]

I cancelled the order for the right angle chuck. Reviews said it was flimsy and on closer inspection it was also too small. Meanwhile I had a small epiphany... All I need to do is loosen two 4mm Allen screws, and I can turn the drill press 180 degrees on it's stand. [Picture head slap here] That will allow the buffing wheel to be a few inches lower so that it easily accommodates the width of a guitar body. In theory if I put the press at the edge of the bench, it gives it quite a lot more room. It still pretty much limits me to 6 inch buffing wheels, but I don't really see that as a problem.

[fender3x]

I used some Brown (Tripoli) buffing compound on my tele body...and from what I read, it got it right where that rouge is supposed to get it: satin finish. HOWEVER, I then did some more reading. While there are people who use metal polishes on guitar bodies, I have now learned that there is some danger in using these rouges. They may work fine on really hard finishes like poly or nitrocellulose but may cause damage to oil or satin finishes. Also they may have solvents that could be a problem.

So... I decided to go with the "most luthiers" suggestion and get some menzerna polishes. I got P204 as a mid grade, to start with, and got some yellow P175 for final polishing. Now taking a bit of a pause for it to arrive.

This purchase is messing a bit with my "cheapness" project, since these compounds turn out to be a lot more expensive than what I was going to use. That said, what a bar of each is not cheap will (by one YouTube reckoning) over 150 guitars....That said, it'll be worth it if it speeds up my process and obviates the need for more sanding... ;-)