Guide to Rupes Buffers & Pads

Published on 06/29/2025

Rupes is one of the most trusted names in professional auto detailing, and for good reason. Their polishers and pads are engineered to work as a system, delivering consistent results whether you’re correcting heavy defects or finishing to a show-car gloss. From the precision-built Rupes BigFoot DA polishers to their durable foam, wool, and microfiber pads, their gear is built for serious performance.

At Detail King, we carry the full line of Rupes polishers, pads, parts, and accessories, so whether you’re shopping for your first machine or building out a multi-tech shop, you’re covered. Here’s what you need to know to get the most out of the Rupes polishing system.

Types of Rupes Buffers

1. BigFoot Dual Action Polishers

  • LHR15 Mark V and LHR21 Mark V models feature smooth operation, balanced performance, and large throw options for faster correction.
  • Great for general paint correction, finishing work, and minimizing haze on softer clears.

2. Gear-Driven (Forced Rotation)

  • The Rupes Mille LK900E offers increased cutting power with forced rotation.
  • Ideal for techs dealing with harder paints or situations where DA polishers bog down.

3. Cordless iBrid Polishers

  • Lightweight, fully mobile solutions for detailers on the go.
  • Delivers pro-level results without the cord — popular for mobile detailing setups.
  • The Rupes HLR15 and the Rupes HLR21 are engineered for noise reduction and minimal vibrations.

Explore all of our Rupes polishers.

Guide to Rupes Buffing Pads

Rupes designs their pads and polishers to function as a system, making pad selection simple and effective. The pad color system indicates the aggressiveness level:

Pad styles include:

  • DA Foam Pads: Matched to BigFoot DA machines (LHR15/LHR21)
  • Wool Pads: Great for moderate-to-heavy correction with less heat than foam
  • Microfiber Pads: For fast cut on harder paints, especially when paired with correct compound

Browse all of our Rupes buffing pads.

Rupes Polisher & Pad Kits

If you’re getting started or upgrading your setup, a combo kit is the best value. These kits pair the right machine with the correct pads, compounds, and accessories, so you’re ready to go out of the box.

Popular options include:

  • Rupes LHR21 Mark V & 75E Combo Kit: Power and precision for large and small panels.
  • Rupes HLR15 Cordless Kits: Wireless detailing without compromising performance.
  • Starter Kits: Include pads, polishes, and microfiber towels for new users.

Browse all of our Rupes polisher kits.

Must-Have Rupes Accessories

To get the most life out of your Rupes polishing pads, regular cleaning is essential. A simple but powerful tool for this is the Nylon Pad Cleaning Brush. It safely removes spent polish and residue without damaging the foam or microfiber face.

  • Use after every panel or vehicle to maintain pad effectiveness
  • Pairs perfectly with Clean All or other pad-safe degreasers

Other useful add-ons include:

Pad Maintenance Tips

Maintaining your Rupes pads properly ensures longer pad life, consistent performance, and better results on every job. Here are some essential maintenance practices:

  • Clean pads frequently during use, compressed air, pad brushes, or spur tools work great between passes.
  • Avoid overloading with compound or polish; this can cause saturation and reduce cut.
  • Swap pads regularly to prevent overheating and maintain consistent surface contact.
  • Wash pads thoroughly after each use using a pad-safe cleaner and lukewarm water.
  • Dry completely before storing to prevent mildew or breakdown of the pad backing.

Proper care extends your investment and ensures your Rupes system performs to its full potential.

The Rupes polishing system is all about precision, efficiency, and consistent results. Whether you’re running a high-volume detail shop or managing a mobile rig, matching the right Rupes polisher with compatible Rupes pads and accessories ensures your work speaks for itself.