Ryobi 5" Foam Dual Action Polisher Correcting Pad Set

When I first got my hands on the Ryobi 5" Foam Dual Action Polisher Correcting Pad Set, I was eager to see how it would perform on various surfaces, from automotive paint to metal and even wood. This set, which includes a finishing pad, a correcting pad, and a cutting pad, promises to tackle light scratches and defects with ease. Here's my in-depth take on these pads after putting them through their paces.

Compatibility and Fit

The first thing I noticed was how seamlessly these pads fit onto my dual action polisher, which has a 5" backer pad. The hook and loop attachment system is robust and holds the pads securely in place, even during extended polishing sessions. This is a significant advantage, as there's nothing more frustrating than a pad slipping off mid-task. Whether you're using them with Ryobi's own PBF100 polisher or another 5" dual action polisher, the fit is spot on.

Performance and Versatility

These pads excel in versatility. I used them on my car, boat, and even some wooden furniture, and they consistently delivered impressive results. The cutting pad is great for tackling those stubborn scratches and oxidation marks. It has a firmer texture that helps to remove more significant defects without being overly aggressive on the surface.

The correcting pad is the middle ground, ideal for moderate scratches and swirls. It strikes a perfect balance between cutting and finishing, making it a go-to for most detailing tasks. Finally, the finishing pad is a softer pad that leaves a smooth, glossy finish. It's particularly effective for applying wax or final polish, giving that showroom-ready shine.

Durability and Cleaning

One of the standout features of these pads is their durability. After multiple uses, they showed minimal signs of wear and tear. The foam material is resilient and doesn't break down easily, even when used with various polishing compounds. Cleaning the pads is straightforward. A quick rinse with warm water and a bit of soap is usually enough to remove any residual compound. They dry quickly and are ready for the next use in no time.

Ease of Use

Using these pads is a breeze, even for someone who might be new to dual action polishers. The hook and loop system makes swapping pads quick and hassle-free. The different grades of pads—cutting, correcting, and finishing—are color-coded, which helps in keeping them organized and knowing which one to use for each step of the polishing process.

However, it's worth noting that the pads themselves are not labeled with their specific purpose. This isn't a deal-breaker, but it does mean you need to keep track of which pad is which, especially if you're using them frequently and with different compounds.

Application and Results

The results I achieved with these pads were consistently excellent. On my car, I managed to remove light scratches and swirl marks with ease. The correcting pad worked wonders on some moderate scratches, while the finishing pad left a brilliant, high-gloss finish that made the paintwork look almost new.

On my boat, the pads performed equally well, removing oxidation and restoring the shine to the gel coat. Even on wooden surfaces, they were effective. The cutting pad helped to smooth out some rough areas, and the finishing pad brought out the natural luster of the wood.

Areas for Improvement

While I am generally very pleased with these pads, there are a couple of areas where they could be improved. Firstly, the lack of labeling on the pads themselves can be a bit inconvenient. Having to remember which pad is for which purpose can be a minor hassle, especially if you're in the middle of a project.

Secondly, while the pads are durable, I did notice that they tend to absorb a fair amount of polishing compound. This isn't necessarily a bad thing, as it means they're working effectively, but it does mean you'll need to clean them more frequently to maintain their performance.

Conclusion

Overall, the Ryobi 5" Foam Dual Action Polisher Correcting Pad Set is a fantastic addition to any detailing toolkit. Their compatibility with various 5" dual action polishers, combined with their durability and excellent performance, makes them a reliable choice for both amateur and professional detailers.

I highly recommend these pads for anyone looking to achieve a professional finish on their vehicles, boats, or even household items. They offer a great balance of cutting, correcting, and finishing capabilities, making them versatile enough to handle a wide range of tasks. Despite a couple of minor drawbacks, the overall quality and performance of these pads make them a worthwhile investment.