What buffer should I get?!?

A

audipower

New member
hey guys,

My business has been going through the roof and I need a better buffer. I don't need to buy one right now, but by next spring.

First I'll tell you what I need it for. I need it for applying sealents wax and I would love to have on that you can use clay with. I heard they have ones to put clay in. Also to do light sanding.

I hear alot about Porter Cable, but I think it's because autopia sells them. I see Makita's and Milwaukee one's at Home Depot, but I don't know if you can buy the things I need for them. I know those brands are great quality.

So, let the discussions begin. I did do a search on the forum but I didn't find any useful stuff.

I'm using a old crappy PC right know. It works great, but it looks like azzz. I have a Lamborghini Gallarado, '68 Chevelle, Steudbacker, '69-'68-'70 Camaro, Audi A4 and A8L as clients. They pay me pretty well and it don't look good rolling in with that. I know that's why I didn't get that Porsche 966, or he was a cheap azz. They have shows every two weeks, so I'm pretty busy.
 
You hear alot about the Porter Cable because that is what PC stands for. It is a specific tool.



Since your search didn't produce results, PLEASE READ THIS!



Do not use clay with a machine. Not a smart idea.



Please don't think about sanding until you've gained a bit more experience...



G'luck.



Jim
 
What Jimmybuffit said :xyxthumbs



If not for the panel contours on some of the cars you're doing, I'd recommend that you get a Cyclo. OK, I'll *still* recommend that you get one :D



And FWIW, a "well worn" polisher isn't, IMO a *bad* thing...it gives the impression that you have used it enough to know what you're doing. I can't imagine a customer turning you away over having a worn-looking polisher...maybe it was something else and he used that as an excuse. I'm assuming that it's *clean*, and not crusted with old polish, etc. If it *is* all crusty, well, I wouldn't want it near my cars either ;) My 20 year old Cyclo is pretty worn looking, but it's about as clean as a new one.
 
I am a professional detailing and I can tell you that you need to separate Porter Cable from Makita. They are two entirely different buffing technologies.



The PC is a dual action (or random orbital) polisher. That means it works off an eccentric core (as opposed to in a circle) that prevents heat buildup (and subsequent damage) while effectively removing scratches and swirl marks. This technology is ideal for an amateur or anyone else for that matter, and if you decide to purchase a dual action machine, don't waste your money on anything but a Porter Cable. Period.



Makita (9227), on the other hand, is a rotary polisher. That is, the backplate goes in a circle--ergo---it generates more heat. The 9227 is a variable speed machine, which is great (I have both PC and Makita), works faster than the dual action, but there is more risk of damage, particularly on things like plastic bumpers.



So, bottom line, if you have little or no experience with a polisher, get a DA. If you get a DA, get a Porter Cable. If you have experience and want to try a rotary, Makita is good, but so is DeWalt, and a couple of others. Just don't compare apples and oranges.



Oh, BTW, Autopia is one of only hundreds of sites that sells Porter Cable.



Peggy
 
Thanks guys! The Porsche guy is a weirdo. He wears a suit on Sunday. Everybodies to good for him, if you know what I mean. He was just weird. The porter cable I have that was given to me has a broken handle and plastic cover.

I found the Porter Cable 7424 for 119 and for 20 more you get a backing and polishing pads, 6" abrasive discs and metal carrying case.

I use Z1 polishes, Klasse AIO&Sealent, P21S. I love Klasse on dark color cars. What do you guys use?

Who did you guys learn from? Suggest any books or videos. I'm always looking for an edge and I love learning.
 
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