Which polisher?

[Mr Spigot]

The bonnet and boot on my 1952 MM convertible have very dull, almost matt, original paintwork (see attached photos). I have tried manually polishing both several times with various polishes (Autoglym, Meguars etc), but the difference is minimal and my fingers ached! The photos show rain spots and it does need a wash, but even so, the paint is much duller than the wings and rest of the car.
I have done some research and it seems a dual-action (random orbital) polisher is what I need but I would welcome any advice on the appropriate tool or brand to use.

[alanworland]

I bought one from Argos, a Challenge unit with variable speed. I've used it several times and it does a good job.
You choose the fierceness with hard/softer pads and compound, I've only used farecla G3 compound, which is fine/gentle followed by a G3 wax.
Definitely takes the effort out of the job with good results.

Alan

[Mr Spigot]

Many thanks.

[myoldjalopy]

Go easy, especially on the edges of the bonnet moulding that runs down the middle, so as not to cut through to the undercoat.

[svenedin]

The professionals measure the thickness of the paint in various places so they know whether it is safe to use a machine. The paint can be thin on edges and on the Minor there are lots of areas where a machine could remove too much paint if you are not really careful. The machine excels on large flat panels.

Stephen

[myoldjalopy]

The professionals measure the thickness of the paint in various places so they know whether it is safe to use a machine. The paint can be thin on edges and on the Minor there are lots of areas where a machine could remove too much paint if you are not really careful. The machine excels on large flat panels.

Stephen

Yes, exactly, that is why I said to go easy with it. Its very easy to rub through to the undercoat on such edges, even when doing the job by hand.