Originally Posted by 70GT6
I also use a Porter Cable but so far I have not had to deal with too many swirls.
However I notice that you say you have to wipe off the various cleaners. I frequently watch a pro buff out cars and let me tell you you almost never see a towel. Whatever compound is being used is worked with untill it is dry and no longer visible on the paint then it is a change of pad and the next compound.
Not that I can do it like that, but obviously working till it dries should not be a real issue. I think there is more to it and mastering proper technique.
Practice practice practice.
Good thing you have a test vehicle
I've been watching the videos from paintcare-n-detailing.com and I think that's what led me down the wrong path. They are using completely different products which confused me into working the Meguiars products (which I like) in the way that I did. Now I know I was using them in a manner they're not meant to be used. Even so, with the exception of the swirls, the results are quite amazing, just labor intensive. But like I mentioned, I just don't have the endurance to do a real complete detailing by hand anymore. Well, maybe I do and I've just gotten lazy or smarter. So the machine method is new to me and I'm super careful when I'm doing something I've never done before. Impatience made me get the 1980 vintage orbital that I never used and give it a go. I know we have real experts here and I'm going to avail myself of their experience and advice.
Les