How to buff / compound in tight spaces?

[BiegRod]

Thanks to all here who have posted their knowledge about Buff-Magic and Pro Polish!!

I had more than 8 years of Florida sun damage without a single wax or compounding. (I had to check with the PO).

Anyhow, after following wet sanding and compounding techniques here I am seeing shine on the boat for the first time since I have owned it. When I showed the PO, he was amazed 'cause he had bet me it was unrestorable without sanding into the glass.

Anyhow, its still a fishing boat and I don't need mirror finish everywhere but its wonderful to be able to rub against it and not have to worry about white dust all over us or the gear.

The one thing that is bugging me is that I could not get the buffer (mine's the HF cheapy but it worked) into the corners or any tight spots around the console or near the side to deck edges etc.

Most of these areas have about a 1" radius. If I am real careful I can get the buffer in there without it jumping on me but some areas, the console especially, there is no way to get a 7" wheel in there.

I did the best I could by hand but its clear that it didn't do much compared to the machine.

What do you guys use in these cases?

 

[mannmade]

Try using a foam "smilie" pad, and with some water in a small spray bottle spread your compound around and then lightly mist the area as you work it. You should get a little more bite with the area slightly wet.If you can't find the yellow foam pads get a 3 or 4 pak from your local Advance or Auto Zone location,these pads are small enough to get into the tight places.

 

[BobV1]

Here are two alternatives you can try:

If you want to use power equipment, go to www.motherspowerball.com and look at their mini powerball. Use it with Buff-Magic and follow up with Pro-Polish.

Second alternative is elbow grease and boat scrub. Go to www.auroramarine.com for product information. Follow up with Pro-Polish. The boat scrub will do a good job removing the oxidization by hand since it's a little more abrasive than Buff-Magic.

Bob

 

[BiegRod]

Thanks Guys.

I was thinking of a mothers ball too. Didn't know they made a mini one. I was just thinking of the regular one but wasn't sure how it would do with the compound.

Much appreciated.

~Troy

 

[RBD]

I have purchased small diameter polishing wheels,approx 3-4 inch diameter from a company in florida , Classic Motoring (or something close to that) They fit my Porter Cable Unit and are great for tight areas.
They carry a vast assortment of pads and buffer supplies