1. Do I need to handle the EPIC® Purple Foamed Wool Heavy-Duty Pad differently than the other EPIC pads?
Since the EPIC Purple pad is a foamed wool, it does require slightly different handling than the rest of the EPIC pads. It is important to keep the Purple Foamed Wool Pad as clean as possible and to brush it out often. When using this pad for the first time, brush it out using the lowest orbital speed and then season it. It is important not to overload the compound on the pad’s surface.
2. How can I tell if the EPIC® compounds have broken down?
There are two simple tests to check if the EPIC® Paint Correction compounds have not broken down. First, check to see if the compound looks wet and nearly transparent. If it does, the compound is broken down completely. If the compound still looks thick and creamy, use your finger to feel the compound to see if it feels thick and gummy or smooth like butter. If the compound is somewhat thick and gummy, it has not broken down all the way, and you should continue buffing. If the compound feels smooth like butter, you have broken down the abrasive and are ready to wipe off any excess product.
3. I have trouble getting comfortable on vertical panels. What can I do?
If you are buffing on the side of a car and have a hard time controlling the buffer, don't worry. Many times, just changing your grip and way of holding the buffer can make all the difference. Turn the buffer horizontally and place your leading hand under the head to provide support and stability. This slight adjustment will allow the buffer to fit under the mirrors and door handles with less effort.
4. I live in an extremely dry climate. Should I do something differently when buffing?
In extremely dry climates, you may experience a slight dusting of the EPIC compound. To reduce the dusting, simply apply your compound to the pad surface and lightly mist the pad with water. Next, do the same for the surface of your panel. Run the orbital buffer at the lowest setting and work it back and forth until you feel the foam pad drop or sink closer to the panel. Once this has happened, apply two more ¼" drops of the compound and go about your normal buffing process. Showroom Shine™ would also work as a substitute for water.
5. Sometimes, I need to get right back to buffing after cleaning a pad. Is there a trick to using a pad I just cleaned?
Detailing is a fast-paced business. If you need to continue working immediately after washing an EPIC pad, you should dry the pad as much as possible before you begin buffing. If a fresh air hose is available, blow-dry the pad while running the orbital buffer at the lowest setting possible. This will ensure proper airflow to dry the pad adequately. If a fresh air hose is not available, you can spin it dry in a bucket or the sink. To spin dry the pad, turn the orbital buffer on to low speed and let it run while you drag your finger on the outside of the pad. This will speed up drying and get you back to work faster.