Novus vs. Tamiya Polishing Compounds

[Miatatom]

Another topic briefly discussed Novus and Tamiya polishing compounds. I'd like to hear a discussion of the two and your impressions. I have Novus but have never used Tamiya. The Novus usually requires the use of micro sanding cloths (3200 through 12000) and then the Novus to get a good finish and shine but I have achieved good results. Just a little labor intensive. What are your opinions of the two?

[espo]

I have used the Novus liquids with a micro fiber towel and had good results. I have also used the Tamiya polishing pastes in the same fashion and that has become my preferred method now. I think either one would do the job, I just like the Tamiya better. 

[Pete J.]

I've used both for years and have had no issues to speak of with either. Both require the same prep work of flattening and sanding. The main difference is that I find I can use my finger with Tamiya for the final polish.  I always use a water dampened dremel buffing disc with Novus. If I am doing large areas like 1/12 scale bodies I prefer Novus because I can cover a lot of area quickly with the dremel.  It can be tricky working in tight spaces with a Dremel.  I also use Tamiya with my Dremel but it is messier. 

  The finish I get is about the same with both.  It is more a matter of what is handy and how tight a space I am working in. 

[Plowboy]

What I like about the Tamiya compounds is that I don't have to go through humpteen different grits of sanding pads to get a glass smooth finish. I can sand with 2000 (I do sometimes go over it with 4000 also) and use the three compounds and I'm done. I've yet to burn through the paint with this process. Done it too many times with the polishing pads!

One tip when using the Tamiya compounds : do not apply with your fingertip! That does nothing! It has to be applied with a soft cotton cloth over your fingertip.

[Zippi]

I'd like to try the Tamiya compounds but I have used the NOVUS products.  I really don't see any difference in the NOVUS products vs the Meguiar's products that I use on my 1:1 49 Chevy pickup. They both produce a slick high shine.  

[Deuces ll]

We use Novus waxes here at work for polishing clear acrylic oil pans, cam covers, and timing covers....

All machined from a solid block of acrylic...?

Here's an oil pan...

 

Edited May 11, 2021 by Deuces ll

[TransAmMike]

3 hours ago, Deuces ll said:

We use Novus waxes here at work for polishing clear acrylic oil pans, cam covers, and timing covers....

All machined from a solid block of acrylic...?

Here's an oil pan...

 

Gotta ask, what is an acrylic oil pan used on???

[Deuces ll]

A display engine or for the dyno room.....

[Miatatom]

5 hours ago, Plowboy said:

What I like about the Tamiya compounds is that I don't have to go through humpteen different grits of sanding pads to get a glass smooth finish. I can sand with 2000 (I do sometimes go over it with 4000 also) and use the three compounds and I'm done. I've yet to burn through the paint with this process. Done it too many times with the polishing pads!

One tip when using the Tamiya compounds : do not apply with your fingertip! That does nothing! It has to be applied with a soft cotton cloth over your fingertip.

Sounds like the advice I needed to go ahead and order some Tamiya compounds. Thanks.

[Michael jones]

Proabably depends on the clear coat used. If 2k clear is used, tamiya compounds are not that effective compared to auto products.

[Plowboy]

3 hours ago, Miatatom said:

Sounds like the advice I needed to go ahead and order some Tamiya compounds. Thanks.

You're welcome Tom! You won't believe how easy it makes polishing a paint job!