[FMINUS]

I've been wetsanding for years using the traditional unigrit paper and I really didnt know there was an alternative.

Then about a year ago I was at a body shop and I saw they had some airsanders, I was blown away at how fast and precise you can colorsand a panel if you have the right equipment!

I started the search for the same setup but found out you needed a compressor at of at least 60 gallons to make this work. So I gave up my search because I didnt want to have a monster compressor in my garage.

Then I saw some detailers in the UK using a portable AC and realized that THIS COULD WORK!

Anyways, after a little research on the detailing forums I found my setup! Its amazing and saves about 2 hours out of sanding an entire car.

Let me know if anyone needs help putting this setup together. And yes I can get yall discounts!

And the minimum AC needed (after long phone conversations) is 20 gallon 2hp and 8CFPM

[FMINUS]

I was amazed at how many types of air compressors there are. I was lucky enough that there were enough people did know and could help me out

[garyhgaryh]

I use an airvantage airsander. It's one of the best out there.

I don't wet sand - i dry sand . You can see my compressor next to the car... I've had that for about 16 years and it's still going strong..

Gary

[FMINUS]

What size do you use? Pads? Compressor? Do you have an interface pad? Im curious!

[garyhgaryh]

Yes, I use the interface pad. My home paint job looks like a mirror finish all around! I bought my airvantage in 2002 i think. It's the same size as the one on the right in your picture. I use a Sears 25 gallon compressor. I forgot the specs, but I can check this weekend when I go out to the garage.

I use 1500, 1200, and 1000 grit. My paint shop gave me some 2000 grit foam pad (I can't think of the name right now since I got it in 2003). I use the loop and hook pads.

I use 3M products for the grits (finese II stuff)..

Gary

[garyhgaryh]

btw, i can already tell that your compressor is quieter than mine .... the one you have is pretty decent. Mine is LOUD, but it only cost me $250 at the time (i think) in 1992 or 1993 or 1994.

[FMINUS]

the ones in the pic are 3 and 5 inches. I ended up getting a 6 inch also. I had a hard time finding Abralon pads for the 5 incher.

My compressor was around $400, it is relatively quiet, but I dont have anything to compare it to as I am clueless about portable air compressors!

[garyhgaryh]

Originally Posted by FMINUS

the ones in the pic are 3 and 5 inches. I ended up getting a 6 inch also. I had a hard time finding Abralon pads for the 5 incher.

My compressor was around $400, it is relatively quiet, but I dont have anything to compare it to as I am clueless about portable air compressors!

Ah, that rings a bell. the 2000 grit pad I got are Abralon pads. I use 3m finishing film.

[328i]

Hey Fminus, would you mind PMing me a rough estimate of how much everything cost besides the air compressor. I might look into this in the future.

[JOYRIIDE1113]

You're nuts. When are you gonna start pulling dings? LOL...

You my friend, are venturing into new ground normally reserved for hack bodyshops. If you continue, in about 5 years you'd probably begin painting. You can then offer a full service and charge some $$$$$.

[Detailed Image]

Nice pick up Phil, I've read a little about this setup as well. Congrats.

[ADHD]

WOW!!! Thats awesome!! Say goodby to orange peel!!!
Im guessing your going to eliminate all orange peel on your M5??
Definitly post pics once u get this thing up and running!!

[e90driver]

I would be scared as hell to use that thing on my new e92... or anything for that matter.

How do you learn to use these things? Practice on some old beater?

But the thought of no more orange peel. ahhhhhh

[oneshare325]

Originally Posted by AoshichanX

You are too hardcore!

+1!

I saw you talking about getting the compressor over at detailingbliss, but I didn't catch what you were going to use it for!!!

[BK]

Originally Posted by e90driver

I would be scared as hell to use that thing on my new e92... or anything for that matter.

How do you learn to use these things? Practice on some old beater?

But the thought of no more orange peel. ahhhhhh

Not as crazy as it sounds. Not that I'd ever feel adventurous enough to wet sand large areas of my car or ANY car, but here's a timely and interesting thread I was reading last night: Wetsanding vs. Rotary vs. PC, what removes more paint? (The answer may shock you)

To FMINUS and garyhgaryh - hard core indeed. Cool stuff!

[JayeJaymes]

Nice FMINUS, Do those sanders allow water flow? cant wait to see when you put it to use