cheap starter DA kit

Nope, the system isn't the best option IMO.

Let me speak to a supplier for you about putting a specific kit together. What's your budget?
 
Ok, no worries.

Like I say, cheapish rotary is fine, a decent backing plate is important and 3M waffle pads as they are easy to learn with. Polish wise, Megs 105 and 205 are ideal as they don't need 'breaking down' as such, so are easier to learn with.

I'll see what I can sort for you.

Russ.
 
Okay, I've looked at something like this, which is what I'd buy if I were you:

- Silverline Rotary - http://www.waxamomo.co.uk/index.php?app=ecom&ns=prodshow&ref=silvmp

- Megs 105 and Megs 205 - http://www.waxamomo.co.uk/index.php?app=ecom&ns=prodshow&ref=mmg1058 and http://www.waxamomo.co.uk/index.php?app=ecom&ns=prodshow&ref=mmg2058

- 3M 6" Polishing and Finishing Pad (Yellow and Blue) http://www.waxamomo.co.uk/index.php?app=ecom&ns=prodshow&ref=3m50488 and http://www.waxamomo.co.uk/index.php?app=ecom&ns=prodshow&ref=3m50388

- CG Hex Logic Cutting Pad 5.5" (Yellow) http://www.waxamomo.co.uk/index.php?app=ecom&ns=prodshow&ref=cghexy5

- 3M 3" Cutting, Polishing and Finishing Pad (Green, Yellow, Blue) http://www.waxamomo.co.uk/index.php?app=ecom&ns=prodshow&ref=3m50499 and http://www.waxamomo.co.uk/index.php?app=ecom&ns=prodshow&ref=3m50536 and http://www.waxamomo.co.uk/index.php?app=ecom&ns=prodshow&ref=3m50457

- Dodo Supernatural Rotary Backing Plate (large and small for both pad sizes) http://www.waxamomo.co.uk/index.php?app=ecom&ns=prodshow&ref=snbpmm3 and http://www.waxamomo.co.uk/index.php?app=ecom&ns=prodshow&ref=SNBPMM2

This is currently at £130, but you can get 5% off that and free delivery, which is a great deal!

You should also get some 3M Blue Tape for taping off panel edges - http://www.waxamomo.co.uk/index.php?app=ecom&ns=prodshow&ref=3m3434

I have deliberately not chosen the 3M Green Compounding pad as its rock hard and is like polishing with a breeze block - the CG is a lot nicer to use, but at first you should be sticking to the polishing pad anyway.

Great starter kit there and the only drawback is the weight of the machine itself, but its built to last and will serve you well. If you want a lighter machine, look at the Dodo Spin Doctor Pro, its another £70... not worth it unless you're doing a few cars.

for 5% off, use the code ilovewaxamomo :smile:

Thanks,
Russ.
 
No worries, it may be worth getting a couple of the yellow pads, as I'd imagine you'd use these the most...

Let me know when you get it, and I'll link you up with some threads and vids to teach you how to use it. Just get used to 'steering' the rotary first, before contemplating any heavy correction, else you're asking for trouble, so 205 on a blue pad, and just learn how to use it, then step up as and when you feel ready.

A paint depth gauge is worth looking at too, but they aren't cheap. Remember, heat is your enemy too, especially on plastic...
 
I've heard stories about using rotorys Like that you have to be careful to no burn the paint, how do you prevent this from happening, I'd love to get into doing cars properly but all info baffles me lol!
 
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Too many people use aggressive pads and abrasives and too high-a-speed when polishing. It's not as simple as it looks and finishing down properly and not leaving holograms isn't easy. Then you have to factor is how every paint is different and how it reacts... I've been learning for 6 years and have polished over 100 cars and I'm STILL learning new things and ways to improve on every car.

Everyone thinks they can just buy a polisher then go and make £400 per day "detailing", if only it were that simple :smile:
 
Happy to do a 'tuition detail' if you ever want a hand with yours Luke...

I have access to a unit in Shropshire now, which is an ideal location for such things, especially given that the bad weather and early nights are kicking in now :worried:
 
I'd be up for something like this Russ, I could do with buying the kit and learning how to use it as I quite enjoy doing this kind of thing, but don't have the equipment or ultimately the knowledge on what is best to use/do.
 
Maybe a Midlands tuition day then? I have access to a fairly local unit, which would be an ideal location. Be happy to do it for 2-3 people or so, to keep it hands on.
 
Sort it out then Arran, you're the rep lol! :tongueout:

It wouldn't be "free" as I have materials cost and have to pay for the unit for the day, but it would be very good value.

Do we have a willing donor car? Start a new thread if you like...
 
I have several donor cars. A Saab 9-5 estate that needs to be cleaned up ready for selling, a Ford SportKa that needs to be polished up for selling and an Ultra Red Clio 197 that needs to be polished up ready for selling. Lol!

Might be best for you to PM me some dates you can make it and the location etc, so I can give details Russ.
 
Nice one, the SportKa will be ideal, and don't worry, I won't allow anyone to take any risks with anything.

I'll speak to my man with the unit about some dates...
 
The SportKa is the other halves, it's metalic black. I haven't asked her yet, but if I just say I'm going to detail it she will most likely hand over the key! Lol!