I understand that using a heavy cutting pad with a light polish or sealant is inappropriate, but can you use a polishing or finishing pad with a compound? I wanted to know if I can use a white polishing pad with 3M Perfect-It II Fine Cut Rubbing Compound. I am trying to remove swirl marks, scuffs, and fine scratches from the previous owner. I would imagine the compound will still cut, even without a cutting pad, but I wanted to ask the experts. Thanks in advance for your response!

Im sure it would do your car more good than harm, although I havent tried it myself. Why not use a light cutting pad? The white polishing pads that I have supposedly have no cutting power. I'd hate for you to waste your time. PC-ing makes me so sore!

It'll still cut, but may leave hazing. If you're just trying to remove light swirls, I'd advise you to purchase product more suited to light swirl removal rather than use fine cut compound. Just pick up some SMR or any diminishing abrasive polish and use a white pad.

I'm going to follow it up with 3M Perfect-It SMR for Dark Colored Cars (the 323 is black). If the white polishing pad might leave hazing with a compound, than I think I better not chance it and just get an orange cutting pad to be safe. Thanks for the input, guys.It'll still cut, but may leave hazing. If you're just trying to remove light swirls, I'd advise you to purchase product more suited to light swirl removal rather than use fine cut compound. Just pick up some SMR or any diminishing abrasive polish and use a white pad.