1. Introduction
The RUPES Bigfoot Medium Wool 3.5" (90 MM) Orbital Polishing Pad is engineered for moderate defect removal on various surfaces. This pad is designed for use with random orbital, gear-driven, and triple-action polishing machines. Its yellow foam backing provides flexibility for improved control on contoured surfaces and offers softer support for enhanced finishing capabilities.
This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your RUPES polishing pad.
Figure 1: RUPES Bigfoot Medium Wool Polishing Pad (front and back view).
2. Setup and Installation
This polishing pad is specifically designed for use with RUPES BigFoot 3-inch backing plates. It is compatible with RUPES BigFoot LHR75 and LHR75E Orbital Polishers, as well as other gear-driven and random orbital machines that accommodate a 3-inch backing plate.
2.1 Attaching the Pad to the Polisher
- Ensure your polishing machine is turned off and unplugged from the power source.
- Verify that the backing plate on your polisher is clean and free of debris.
- Align the RUPES Bigfoot Medium Wool Pad with the hook-and-loop surface of the 3-inch backing plate.
- Press the pad firmly onto the backing plate, ensuring it is centered and securely attached. The entire hook-and-loop surface of the pad should make contact with the backing plate.
- Before operating, manually spin the pad to confirm it is properly seated and does not wobble.
Figure 2: The 90 MM (3.5 inch) diameter of the RUPES Medium Wool Polishing Pad.
3. Operating Instructions
The RUPES Bigfoot Medium Wool Pad is designed for medium cutting, polishing, and finishing applications. It is effective for removing moderate defects and preparing surfaces for finer finishing steps.
3.1 Application Guidelines
- Surface Preparation: Ensure the surface to be polished is clean, dry, and free of contaminants.
- Compound/Polish Application: Apply an appropriate amount of medium-cut compound or polish directly to the pad or the work surface. Start with a small amount and add more as needed.
- Machine Speed: Begin polishing at a low speed to spread the product evenly, then increase to a moderate speed suitable for defect removal. Refer to your polisher's manual for recommended speed settings.
- Pressure: Apply light to moderate, even pressure. Avoid excessive pressure, which can overheat the surface, damage the pad, or reduce cutting efficiency.
- Movement: Work in small sections, using overlapping passes. Maintain consistent movement to prevent holograms or uneven results.
- Pad Cleaning During Use: Regularly clean the pad during extended use to prevent product buildup and maintain cutting performance. Use a pad brush or compressed air to remove caked-on compound.
Figure 3: Close-up view of the wool fibers on the RUPES Medium Wool Polishing Pad.
4. Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance extends the life of your RUPES Bigfoot Medium Wool Pad and ensures consistent performance.
4.1 Cleaning the Pad
- After Each Use: Remove the pad from the polisher. Use a dedicated pad cleaning solution or mild detergent and warm water.
- Hand Washing: Gently agitate the wool fibers to release embedded compound. Rinse thoroughly under running water until all soap and residue are gone.
- Machine Washing (Optional): Some wool pads can be machine washed on a gentle cycle with cold water and a mild detergent. Place pads in a mesh laundry bag to protect them. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach.
- Drying: Squeeze out excess water gently. Do not twist or wring the pad forcefully. Allow the pad to air dry completely, wool-side up, away from direct sunlight or heat. Do not tumble dry.
- Storage: Store clean, dry pads in a sealed container or bag to protect them from dust and contamination.
4.2 Inspection
Before each use, inspect the pad for any signs of wear, tears, or damage to the wool or foam backing. A damaged pad can lead to ineffective polishing or damage to the work surface. Replace worn pads promptly.
5. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Pad not cutting effectively | Pad is clogged with compound; insufficient compound; worn pad. | Clean the pad thoroughly; apply more compound; replace the pad if worn. |
| Pad overheating | Excessive pressure; too high machine speed; working too long in one area. | Reduce pressure; lower machine speed; move the polisher more consistently. |
| Pad detaching from backing plate | Improper attachment; worn hook-and-loop on pad or backing plate. | Ensure secure attachment; replace pad or backing plate if hook-and-loop is compromised. |
| Uneven polishing results | Inconsistent pressure or movement; uneven compound application; damaged pad. | Maintain even pressure and consistent movement; apply compound uniformly; inspect and replace pad if damaged. |
6. Product Specifications
- Model Number: 9.BW100M
- Pad Diameter: 3.5 inches (90 MM)
- Material: Wool
- Grit Type: Medium
- Aggressiveness: Medium Cutting, Polishing, and Finishing
- Compatible Backing Plate: RUPES BigFoot 3 Inch Backing Plate
- Compatible Polishers: RUPES BigFoot LHR75 & LHR75E Orbital Polishers (and similar gear-driven/random orbital machines)
- Product Dimensions: Approximately 4.8 x 3.8 x 2.2 inches
- Item Weight: Approximately 0.32 ounces
7. Safety Information
Warning: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information, go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses and gloves when operating polishing equipment. Ensure adequate ventilation in your workspace.
8. Warranty and Support
For information regarding product warranty, technical support, or service, please contact RUPES customer service directly or visit the official RUPES website. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.
