A couple PC vs. Rotary Questions

G

Gryz

New member
I have been using a PC for several months now and am enjoying it a lot. Though, next summer I would like to invest in a rotary to help with time and also the imperfections that a PC can't correct. I have a couple question though first...



Because of the high speed and heat of a rotary, is am much pressure needed on it as opposed to if you were using a PC?



Also, kind of related the the above question, again because of the high speed and heat, is a less aggressive product and/or pad usually needed on the rotary for the same job that could be done with a PC?



Thanks
 
I don't apply pressure to the rotary. I let the weight of the machine do the work. Also start with soft foam pads and finishing polishes and avoid all edges.
 
First step in using the rotary is to tape up as much as you can so that you don't burn anything. Rubber, plastic, even edges & curves on the body.



You should use the least aggressive pad and polish to start. Move up in chemicals, then pads if needed. Its not as hard as perceived, assuming you know how to use the PC first.
 
When using the rotary ... PAY ATTENTION to what you are doing because being careless for a split second can can cause damage. The PC is a lot more "forgiving" in that regard. Other than that, a little common sense goes a long way.
 
Sorry to hijack but its about the thread.



I plan to purchase a LC 6" backing plate. Can I use the Meguiar's W4000 8in wool pad on this plate?



Which size backing plate is regarded as the best size?



THANKS
 
To answer your original questions:

1. Yes, less pressure is needed.

2. Yes, the same product on the same pad will do much more work with the rotary than on the PC.
 
Jason M said:
To answer your original questions:

1. Yes, less pressure is needed.

2. Yes, the same product on the same pad will do much more work with the rotary than on the PC.
Click to expand...





Thank you, seemed like common sense, but wanted to make sure.
 
Is it possible for someone new to both the PC and Rotary to jump right in with a Rotary or is the learning curve too steep.



I would simply be doing this at home, and the occasional friends vehicle for a case of beer so I couldn't justify 'upgrading' later. But it sounds like the rotary has some unique advantages that make overcoming the challenge of it worth it, am I wrong?
 
evilWagon said:
Is it possible for someone new to both the PC and Rotary to jump right in with a Rotary or is the learning curve too steep.
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There's not much of a learning curve for the rotary at all. I use to teach my workers to use a rotary with a wool pad. It's much easier to learn on and creates alot less heat than foam. After doing a couple of vehicles, there's nothing to it. Just take it slow and stay away from agressive polishes/compounds. Get some pointers or watch an experienced person do his thing and that will help more than any website out there. Go to a local body shop and ask them if you can watch them buff out a vehicle. Not a big deal. Good luck.
 
Any recommendation on a good rotary?



I've seen brands from Makita, Metabo, and PC...though I'm sure there are others.
 
Gryz said:
Any recommendation on a good rotary?



I've seen brands from Makita, Metabo, and PC...though I'm sure there are others.
Click to expand...



can't go wrong with a makita, metabo, hitachi, dewalt, etc. it's just personal preference on what YOU like...
 
Anything that spins in circles up to 1500 RPMs will work. Makita rotarys seem to be the most popular rotary amoung Pros. Make sure you'll be able to mount a standard backing plate to it, so that you'll be able to use a professional line of pads like EDGE and/or Lake Country. Just ask if you have any questions.
 
Gryz said:
Any recommendation on a good rotary?



I've seen brands from Makita, Metabo, and PC...though I'm sure there are others.
Click to expand...

I agree with BigAl3 that's its pretty much personal preference. My personal preference is the Metabo. No trigger, but light. I'm a smaller guy so weight is the main factor. Seems easier to handle than the Makita too, IMO. If you get a chance to use a rotary, its best to try them before taking the plunge. But, I don't think you can go wrong with any one you choose.
 
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