Is the hitachi worth it for me over the HB rotary?

W

w.neurauter

New member
Hi,



I recently ordered up some SIP and 106ff from menzerna to do some work on my car as well as family members. I don't plan on doing more than 1-2 cars per month. Currently I have the Chicago electric from harbor freight which seems to work well for my needs. My question is whether it's worth it to upgrade to the hitachi or similiar quality machine? I'm sure I'll notice the difference but am having trouble figuring out if it's worth the money. If I'm going to upgrade I'd rather do it now than 3 months from now.



thanks for any advice.
 
For 2 cars a month, I would say its definitely worth it. But if your having good results with your Chicago, I would just stick with that till it craps out on you.



Jim
 
Thanks for the reply. Right now I'm leaning toward getting it, we'll see if anyone else can sway me either way. I just want to do the job right the first time and also like tools which can hurt the wallet. I also figured I just dumped $80 on polish and I'm using a $25 machine.
 
w.neurauter said:
I just want to do the job right the first time and also like tools which can hurt the wallet. I also figured I just dumped $80 on polish and I'm using a $25 machine.
Click to expand...



This is a good thought. Sounds like you are in need of a good solid tool that will last you a long long time. I say go for it man!



One problem, good luck finding the Hitachi. They are backordered everywhere. I just ordered a Makita and have heard VERY good things about it.



The hitachi and makita are basically the same machines anyways. another plus for the makita is that it comes with a bag that you can store the machine and all your pads in which is pretty nice.



I got mine at Discount Tools, Discount Tool Store and it was $177 shipped to my door.



Let us know what you decide to do and good luck!



Jim
 
Hi Jim,



Thanks for the advice. I'm just about ready to bite the bullet and order it. So from what I've read (I've used the search feature a ton) the main benefits of the Makita/Hitachi over the harbor freight are



a bit lighter

quieter

possibly smoother

bog down less



Keep in mind I have the old version of the Chicago electric without the digital display. I use mainly 6.5" pads so don't find the bogging that much of a problem. How about the handle design of the makita over the side handle on the chicago electric? Is the hoop handle easier to work with?



Thanks again.
 
Had another question. I've read in one post that the makita's triger is progressive and that it can control speed independant of the dial. But then I read in another thread that it's on or off. Could someone clarify? Thanks
 
Good move on ordering the Makita. I was a fan of HB rotary until it was obvious it was not always rotating at the same speed and I was close to burning paint with it. I ordered the Makita and coulkdn't be happier - it's so much more smooth and powerful.
 
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