wich polisher should I buy?

E

explorer

New member
Fellows nead your help:wavey

I am looking to purchase a Polisher and need your opinion.

With price not being a factor wich Polisher would you recommend?

PC7424

PC7428

DEWALT 849 MAKITA 9227

CYCLO POLISHER

I have never used a polisher on a car, but have a lot of experience with these types of machines on wood.

I know how it feels and how to control it very well.

I don't know if it is a lot of difference between wood and car paint but I feel that I could master it with your help and guidance.

Also if you guys know of any others besides the ones I mentioned please feel free to recomend what ever:xyxthumbs

The CYCLO POLISHER how does it differ from the rest on terms of use?

Thanks for all inputs :bow
 
explorer, read 4DSC's Definitive PC Accessorizing Thread -- it'll give you tips on the PorterCable models and desirable accessories.



About the Cyclo: I know Accumulator uses it for certain applications. And he's pretty knowledgeable about the pros and cons of various polishers. I'd suggest you send him a PM and ask him to "weigh in" in this thread.
 
Heh heh, did someone say "Cyclo"?



Explorer- You WILL probably find that working with paint is different from working with wood with regard to how the machines behave. But as a woodworker, you're already cognizant of the "irrevocable action" aspect of the process. Yes, you'll get the hang of it in no time.



Not all that up to date on the various model numbers you've listed but I'll compare/contrast the Cyclo and the PC Random Orbital. Those would be the best bet for your first machine, get a rotary later IF you really need it (I used one back in the day, don't really need one now- my cars don't get that marred up).



I like the Cyclo better than the PC for some jobs but not for others. It's no rotary, but it seems more aggressive than the PC. Doesn't bog down/switch to limited movements (sorta like a jitterbug sander) as much when you bear down on it. Less vibration than the PC. Lasts forever, MUCH more durable. Its single speed is often considered too fast by many users, even though it's only 2800-3000 orbitspm (far under the PC's top speed). I believe that's because it acts about the same regardless of load. The PC is a sander being adapted to polishing, the Cyclo was designed as a polisher and yes, it makes a difference.



BUT..the Cyclo is hard (or even virtually impossible) to use on certain contours (like the hood of my Jag) and it's harder to use in tight areas than a PC despite its smaller pads (with the Cyclo you gotta do these areas by hand whereas you could use the edge of the PC's larger pad). The choice of 4" pads is more limited.



I used the Cyclo (happily) for years before getting a PC and *I* still find it a lot more user friendly. *I* just like the feel of it better. Friends who've tried them both are often surprised to find they like the Cyclo better.



BUT..the way it doesn't work as well in tight areas and on certain contours, and it's fixed speed, IMHO, makes it more of an adjunct to, as opposed to a replacement FOR, the PC. But note that I like mine SO much that I'm actually sorry that I can't (honestly) just say "get the Cyclo".



If price is no object, get the PC Random Orbital first. Then a rotary IF you deal with severe marring and/or a Cyclo. They all have their places and I'm sure you're a "tool accumulator" like many of us.
 
I think first you have to decide if you want a rotary machine or a random orbital machine.... they're totally different animals. Which kind are you used to using on wood?



Random orbital action is easier to learn and terrific for casual users, hobbyists, weekend warriors, etc - like me! Rotary machines are a lot harder to learn and somewhat riskier...
 
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