1. Introduction
The RUPES DA LHR21 Blue Coarse Pad (180mm) is an advanced foam polishing pad specifically engineered for use with random orbital/dual action polishers and gear-driven tools. This pad is designed to effectively remove mild to severe defects from various paint systems, providing improved cutting and finishing capabilities when paired with the RUPES DA Coarse Compound. Its unique open-cell foam material combines the best characteristics of previous RUPES blue and green foam pads, offering enhanced durability and performance.
Image 1.1: The RUPES DA LHR21 Blue Coarse Pad (180mm). This image displays the blue foam pad, highlighting its texture and size, ready for attachment to a polishing machine.
2. Setup
Proper setup is crucial for safe and effective operation of the RUPES DA LHR21 Blue Coarse Pad. Follow these steps to prepare your polishing system:
- Inspect the Pad: Before each use, visually inspect the pad for any signs of damage, tears, or excessive wear. Ensure the hook-and-loop backing is clean and free of debris.
- Clean Backing Plate: Ensure the backing plate of your random orbital or gear-driven polisher is clean and free of dust or compound residue.
- Attach the Pad: Align the center of the RUPES DA LHR21 Blue Coarse Pad with the center of your polisher's backing plate. Press firmly to ensure the hook-and-loop attachment is secure across the entire surface of the pad.
- Verify Attachment: Gently tug on the edges of the pad to confirm it is securely attached and will not detach during operation.
Image 2.1: Proper attachment of the RUPES DA LHR21 Blue Coarse Pad to a polisher's backing plate. The pad is centered and fully engaged with the hook-and-loop system.
3. Operating Instructions
For optimal results and to prevent damage to the paint surface, adhere to the following operating guidelines:
- Surface Preparation: Ensure the vehicle's paint surface is clean, dry, and decontaminated before beginning any polishing work. Mask off any trim or sensitive areas.
- Compound Application: Apply 4-5 pea-sized drops of RUPES DA Coarse Compound directly onto the pad. For larger panels, you may need to apply more compound as you work.
- Spreading the Compound: Place the pad flat on the paint surface before turning on the polisher. Spread the compound over a small working area (approximately 2x2 feet) on a low speed setting (e.g., speed 1-2).
- Polishing Technique: Increase the polisher speed to the recommended setting for defect removal (typically speed 4-6 for RUPES polishers). Work in a cross-hatch pattern, applying light to moderate pressure. Ensure the pad remains flat on the surface at all times.
- Overlap Passes: Overlap each pass by approximately 50% to ensure even coverage and consistent defect removal.
- Monitor Temperature: Periodically check the temperature of the working surface with your hand. If the surface becomes too hot to touch, reduce pressure or allow the area to cool.
- Wipe Off Residue: After completing a section, turn off the polisher before lifting it from the surface. Use a clean, soft microfiber towel to wipe away compound residue.
Image 3.1: A detailer demonstrating the correct technique for using a dual action polisher with the RUPES DA LHR21 Blue Coarse Pad, showing overlapping passes on a vehicle panel.
4. Maintenance
Proper maintenance extends the life of your RUPES DA LHR21 Blue Coarse Pad and ensures consistent performance:
- Cleaning After Each Use: Immediately after each use, clean the pad to prevent compound from drying and hardening within the foam cells.
- Cleaning Methods:
- Compressed Air: For light residue, use compressed air to blow out compound from the pad while it's still on the polisher, running at a low speed.
- Pad Brush: Use a dedicated pad cleaning brush to agitate and remove dried compound from the pad surface.
- Washing: For thorough cleaning, hand wash the pad with warm water and a mild pad cleaner or dish soap. Gently squeeze the pad to work the cleaner through the foam. Rinse thoroughly until all soap residue is gone.
- Drying: After washing, squeeze out excess water. Allow the pad to air dry completely in a clean, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight or heat. Do not machine dry.
- Storage: Store clean, dry pads in a sealed container or bag to protect them from dust and contaminants.
- Inspection: Regularly inspect pads for signs of wear, such as tears, hardening, or a flattened foam structure. Replace worn pads to maintain performance and prevent paint damage.
Image 4.1: A RUPES DA LHR21 Blue Coarse Pad being cleaned under running water with a soft brush, demonstrating proper post-use maintenance.
5. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues while using your RUPES DA LHR21 Blue Coarse Pad, consider the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Pad not cutting effectively / Poor defect removal |
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| Swirl marks / Haze left on paint |
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| Pad detaching from backing plate |
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6. Specifications
- Product Name: RUPES DA LHR21 Blue Coarse Pad
- Part Number: 4556DA (as per product description)
- Size: 180mm (7 inches)
- Color: Blue
- Foam Type: Open-cell, Coarse
- Compatibility: Random Orbital/Dual Action Polishers, Gear-Driven Tools
- Recommended Compound: RUPES DA Coarse Compound
- Purpose: Removal of mild to severe paint defects, improved cutting and finishing
7. Warranty and Support
RUPES products are manufactured to high standards of quality and performance. While polishing pads are consumable items, RUPES stands behind its products. For specific warranty information regarding manufacturing defects or for technical support, please refer to the official RUPES website or contact your authorized RUPES dealer.
Contact Information:
- Official RUPES Website: www.rupes.com
- Customer Service: Refer to the contact section on the official website for regional support.
