Quote:
Originally Posted by SouthArk370Z
Use a clay bar before doing any polishing with rubbing compound (or any thing else). You may have drug some embedded dirt around when using the rubbing compound. Other than using the clay to remove all dirt, go with what others have said about polishing.
And, yes, machine buffing/polishing is sooooooo much easier and usually ends up doing a better job since you aren't as worn out near the end of the job. But there is a certain "Zen" to hand polishing. 
Edit: As stated by others, all polishes and rubbing compounds are abrasive. The comparison to sandpaper is very accurate. Rubbing compound is relatively coarse and polishes are very fine. Something called "swirl and haze remover" is probably somewhere in between. |
I think at some point I'll invest in a machine. My paint is still pretty fresh and has been well maintained. I always garage my car and hand wash it. Maybe next season. For now, it works for me.
I do however agree that there is a certain satisfaction associated with feeling the curves of the car by hand. After all, I usually have difficulty keeping my hands off a sexy woman
