Matt - you can't go wrong with that combo. The 7424XP has variable speeds to match the application, and its very easy to handle. The CCS pads are excellent quality and washable/reusable. On mine, I used Yellow, Orange, White, then Black. Which line of products do you plan to use?

 

Good deal. I've been using the Mother's California Gold three-step Ultimate Wax System. The System's steps are 1. pure polish, 2. micro-polishing glaze, and 3. pure carnauba wax. I figured I'd match the pads to the application, so 1. orange, 2. white, and 3. blue.

 

Depending on the condition of your paint, you may want to use a mild compound instead of the polish to really smooth out any scratches or deep swirls...polish should be the second step. Meguiar's Ultimate Compound works like magic when it comes to removing imperfections.

1 - Orange pad + Compound removes all scratches, swirls, cleans and smooths out the surface, leaving it slightly dull/hazy, but super smooth.

2 - White pad + Polish removes the slight haze that should remain on the surface after proper compounding. Polish is what really brings out the shine.

3 - Blue pad + Sealant/Wax is the final step and is only to protect the paint. No cleaning or polishing properties at all.

 

Other than repainting, what is the best course to hide road debris nicks?

I just got my car, and it has a lot of specks on the bumper and front of the hood. I can't afford a repaint right now.

 

You can try to detail and use a glaze to help fill in some of the fine scratches and such.

Then put a couple of coats of wax over the glaze.

You are pretty much stuck with anything that damages beyond the clear coat, but a glaze can help a little bit.