For those of you that run rotary machines. If one wanted to try running a glider under a cotton OP pad(on the rotary machine that is) which one would be best to get? Thick, thin Holey? Also, if running larger pads(20 or 21" cotton pads) would it be better to get a glider meant for use on a CX 20 or a Challenger Max machine(I am assuming the glider diameter increases with larger machine)? I often times find I probably run my cotton pads too dry the cotton pads "bunch up" under my rotary. I use a Malish polymeric face pad driver which is not a "tufted" style face, and haven't had much luck running a black or green stripping pad between the driver and cotton pad, it slips and spins on top. However I am worried about leaving the cotton pad too wet and not getting enough absorption. Also frequently have circuit breaker tripping issues with cotton OP pads. Would it be better to switch to microfiber or thick profile/looped cotton bonnets for absorption? Thanks for the advice and sharing of knowledge/experience.

Dave I use the thick glide that came with my challenger under my rotary. I only use it when I want to do a quick pass behind the Cimex. Otherwise I use the Challenger as a standalone O.P. I ujse it with the 21" pads

Dave, We do alot of bonneting and have found the following; thick loopy cotton pads are our least favorite to use because they don't absorb as much as you think. To me the ideal bonnet would be 40% cotton (soil) 30% micro-fiber (moisture) 30% Polyester (strength) which is approx. make up of the Gladiator pads/bonnets. The Tuways are excellent choice also. Micro-fiber are the most expensive. Gladiators do not require a glider. There are so many variables when choosing the right pad/bonnet, type of carpet, how dry or wet to have the pad/bonnet, is 175 or 300 rpm the best speed, what thickness of glider should I use, or should I use one at all. We use Gladiators, Tuways and 100% Micro-fiber, depending on the condition of the carpet, soil/age/type. I guess there is no pat answer to your question and I hope I did not make it more confusing. There will be a new pad/bonnet out in about 4 weeks that fits my ideal criteria. I am not a fan of gliders as they reduce the surface area of the cleaning surface but it is still better than any distortion/tip blooming you might cause.

Thank you all for your responses and help. Mr. Rambo would mind sharing info about the new pad coming out? Email me privately if that is better. I thought the glider would reduct the cleaning area as well, but not knowing the diameter of a glide didn't know how much. So many variables, I run a dual speed Mercury BOSII(like a Versapro) for 5+ years.