[ATM] First Timer Polishing Questions

["Meeks Robert-PT1784" <bob.meeks@motorola.com>]

Hi -
 
I thought I was done polishing my 8" mirror.  After washing and patting
dry, I lightly wipe the surface with my hand to remove dust and then hit
it with the laser pointer and it appears transparent.
 
However, by chance I tried the laser test after cleaning the mirror
<without> touching it with my hands, and the laser pointer now shows a
readily visible reflection from the entire surface that I can actually
rub away with my thumb.  If I then re-wash, the surface shows the
reflection again.  I believe that oils from my hand are filling the
small pits reducing the scatter; similar to the way it becomes more
difficult to see your own headlights when it rains because the water
fills in the little irregular surfaces on the road.  If so, then
apparantly I'm not polished out after all.
 
Does this jive with anyone else's experience?
 
If so, then I wonder why after ~15 hours of polishing I am still seeing
such a strong scatter reflection?  I have read conflicting reports
regarding the amount of pressure required.  In general, I have not been
using much downward pressure, so I am wondering if anyone could provide
a description as to the amount of pressure required to get a proper
polish?
 
Finally - I had to order more pitch (burgundy medium, which is what came
with my mirror kit), and it is really soft.  Way softer than what was in
the kit.  I generally have to re-channel after 20-30 minutes of
polishing even with only moderate pressure.  So, I've been pressing with
ligher weights (or else the channels close) to get good contact and then
putting the lap in the freezer for about 10-15 minutes to harden it up.
Seems to be working well.  I can go for an hour or two this way without
re-channeling.  Just curious if anyone has any concerns with doing this?
 
Thanks in advance for your help,
Bob
_______________________________________________
ATM mailing list http://www.atmlist.net/