IDA Paint Correction and Machine Polishing 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the correct procedure when starting machine polishing on a new panel?
- Run the machine at full speed immediately
- Spread the product first at low speed before increasing (Correct answer)
- Apply product directly to the panel in a thick layer
- Polish dry without any lubricant
Correct answer: Spread the product first at low speed before increasing
Spreading the compound or polish at low speed first prevents product from being flung off the pad and ensures even distribution before increasing machine speed.
Question 2: In IDA training, what is the 'cross-hatch' polishing technique?
- Polishing in only one horizontal direction
- Alternating vertical and horizontal passes over a work area (Correct answer)
- Applying polish in circular motions only
- Using two machines simultaneously on one panel
Correct answer: Alternating vertical and horizontal passes over a work area
The cross-hatch technique alternates vertical and horizontal machine passes to ensure uniform defect removal and avoid directional marring.
Question 3: Which product should be used after compounding to refine the surface before applying a coating or wax?
- Clay bar
- Paint sealant
- Finishing polish (Correct answer)
- Degreaser
Correct answer: Finishing polish
A finishing polish is used after compounding to refine the surface, remove light haze, and maximize gloss before protection is applied.
Question 4: What does 'RIDS' stand for in the context of paint defects?
- Rotary-Induced Defect System
- Random Isolated Deep Scratches (Correct answer)
- Reduced Impact Detailing Solution
- Recessed Integrated Damage Scratches
Correct answer: Random Isolated Deep Scratches
RIDS stands for Random Isolated Deep Scratches, which are individual scratches that penetrate below the clear coat and generally cannot be fully polished out.
Question 5: Why should a detailer inspect paint under a high-intensity light source before polishing?
- To warm the paint surface
- To check for moisture
- To identify all existing defects and plan the correction approach (Correct answer)
- To cure any coatings already present
Correct answer: To identify all existing defects and plan the correction approach
High-intensity lighting reveals all surface defects including swirls, scratches, and oxidation, allowing the detailer to plan the correct products and techniques.
Question 6: What is the recommended orbital speed (OPM) for a finishing pass on a dual-action polisher?
- Maximum speed (6,000+ OPM)
- Very low speed (1,000 OPM or less)
- Medium-high speed (4,000–5,000 OPM) (Correct answer)
- The same speed as the compounding stage
Correct answer: Medium-high speed (4,000–5,000 OPM)
A medium-high speed of around 4,000–5,000 OPM on a finishing pass helps refine the surface and maximize gloss without introducing new defects.
IDA Paint Correction and Machine Polishing 2
What is the correct procedure when starting machine polishing on a new panel?