When I'm using flat LC pads they sometimes distort into a "mushroom" shape after a few uses - especially the yellow cutting pads - wonder if I'm applying too much pressure ( backing plate is marked & pad is always still spinning ) or not keeping the pad flat enough? Not changing pads often enough? Looking for input from Jesstzn or one of you guys with experience with this. Am I doing something wrong? Don't want to chew up my pads too fast!!! (Using GG orbital, 5" LC backing plate & 5.5" pads & usually Optimum compounds & polishes by the way )

 

Most likely too much pressure, should be no more that 15 pounds and kept flat .

 

I agree. Probably too much pressure. I used to experience this years ago when I used a backing plate too small for the pad I was using. Your backing plate diameter and pad diameter are good.

 

I've detailed for years. I've never used Lake Country, but I have used meguiars, 3m and griots foam pads. After having used meguiars microfiber pads, I will never use foam pads again. They're durable and easier to clean (while detailing) than foam pads imo.

 

Still pretty new to polishing but I just tried optimum m/f pads & I liked them - cut well, no deforming & like you said, easier to keep clean. Still trying different combinations to see what works & what doesn't. Still working on technique too

 

I primarily use LC CCS pads and at first, I had overheated a few to where they were concave in the middle of the pad. After further experimentation, I actually melted the velcro backing. Lessons learned: clean often, change often, do not use too much pressure.