Exact-Fit Backing Plates for Meguiar's DA Microfiber Discs
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For the experts among us.
I've found that supporting the Meguiar's DA Microfiber Discs as close to the edge as possible yields maximum performance. If you are an experienced paint polisher and have mastered control of your random orbital machine, Exact-Fit backing plates may help you increase cutting & finishing performance. These plate are an exact fit (within 1/8") for 3" and 5" discs.
Exact-Fit plate require cautious use on concave or complex surfaces, as the edge of the backing plate may damage paint, plastics, & trim.
Exact-Fit plates can increase backing plate rotation.
Undersized backing plates do not support microfiber discs all the way to the edge. Since the disc's foam is not compressed to the same degree along the unsupported area of the disc as the foam underneath the backing plate, the edge of the disc can act as a brake of sorts, damping rotational speed as the foam's natural tendency is to remain at maximum height. In addition, lack of support along the edge of the disc can cause it to flutter, further slowing rotational speed.
An Exact-Fit plate supports the disc almost completely, essentially eliminating rotation-robbing tendencies. With so much rotation available, you can put the increased backing plate rotation to use or use a lower speed setting (achieving the same amount of rotation as you had using much higher speeds). Slower speeds = smoother machine motion, lower operating temperatures, and increased user comfort. The choice is yours!
Exact-Fit plates can increase performance, regardless the machine speed.
If you're using maximum machine speed with a goal towards scrubbing away stubborn oxidation & defects, an Exact-Fit plate can help. Conversely, if you're using lower machine speeds to finesse-polish paint surfaces, an Exact-Fit plate is a must-have. In either case, an Exact-Fit plate can help to deliver improved results by equalizing pressure across the entire face of the disc. Note: concave panels may or may not allow for safe use of an Exact-Fit plate. Additionally, a firm-edged plate may not be reasonable to use in some instances, as the firmness may cause the edge of the microfiber disc to "dig", consequently delivering a sub-par result.
Exact-Fit plates can increase the lifespan of microfiber discs.
Since Exact-Fit plates fully support microfiber discs to their edge, the backing plate's edge will not pinch or cut into the disc's attachment loop and foam materials. This is an especially common problem when "edging" (a mild tilting of the machine) in is used to focus more pressure onto a smaller portion of the disc. By eliminating disc flutter along the edge of the microfiber disc, an Exact-Fit plate can increase its lifespan.
Notes:
1. Mirka-based Exact-Fit plates grip the Microfiber Discs tightly, as the hooks are made of nylon, not polyester.
Otherwise, hook length & design are nearly identical to the factory recommended Meguiar's plates.
2. Exact-Fit plates designed for use with Meguiar's 5" DA Microfiber Discs are cut & sanded to approximately
5-3/8". Size will vary slightly, as the plates are modified by hand.
3. We can cut Exact-Fit plates to any diameter down to 5-1/4" (this is the diameter required for use with Buff and Shine Microfiber Pads, or Rupes 130/150mm Foam Pads), allowing you to customize them for use with any buffing pad. Even at 5-1/4", the performance will still be excellent when used with the Meguiar's DA Microfiber Discs. Keep in mind that pads featuring a flared-edge design (the face of the pad is larger in diameter than the Velcro side of the pad) will not see a big jump in performance. However, the lifespan of the buffing pad may increase because the edge of the backing plate will not dig into the Velcro.
4. If you would like the backing plate trimmed to a size other than 5-3/8" (ideal for Meguiar's DA Microfiber Discs), please enter the sizing below.
To view our entire buffing pad lineup, visit the Buffing Pad Main Page.
To view our entire backing plate lineup, visit the Backing Plate Main Page.