Polishing Help

[CavinTan]

I've recently changed my finishing to a 2k clear lacquer, i have wetsanded to 2500 grit lengthwise but got a dull finish after buffing with meguairs ultimate compound.

i tried using a medium rubbing compound and i could get a decent shine, however when i finished it off with a fine compound/ meguairs UC / swirl remover, it becomes slightly dull again.. ( i am buffing everything without a buffer, just spinning on my lathe. )

Anybody have any tips/suggestion / explanation as to what is happening? i thought a finer polishing compound should give a better shine.. TIA

 

[DeeDeeCues]

What are you using as a pad?

 

[CavinTan]

What are you using as a pad?

Microfiber cloth.. should i be using a sponge pad for application and buffing of finer compounds?

 

[Kim Bye]

You have to start with a cutting compound.
I highly recommend 3M trizact 2,3 and 6000 grit discs. These leave almost no swirl marks

 

[R2PQZ]

I use Novus 2 fine scratch remover

 

[CavinTan]

I use Novus 2 fine scratch remover

This is for plastics? At which step do you use this?

 

[ratcues]

How long are you letting it cure before cutting and polishing?

 

[R2PQZ]

This is for plastics? At which step do you use this?

The final polishing. Using webril wipes. I used Meguiars for years, but like Novus better.

 

[CavinTan]

Some updates:

So the issue seems to be that i was not on a high enough RPM when switching towards the finer polishing compounds.. *d'oh*
My lathe is on the verge of death & didnt want to push it, but i guess i have no choice now, but to max it.

Results could be better, will continue working on my process based on the feedbacks ive gotten, Thanks all for the help

 

[whammo57]

sounds like it has not fully cured............. I always wait a week before sanding and buffing the clear coat