Use of Orbital Buffer/Polisher

[kenn6645]

I'm about to wax the coach. I've used spay on wax until now, thought I'd use a paste wax and buff it out with an orbital polisher. Does anyone have a recommendation on a easy to use Orbital buffer/polisher?
Thanks in advance.

[cwg]

The key is too be careful and not burn into the clear coat. I like to put the wax/paste/silicone sealer/ on by hand and then remove it with the orbital unit. According to much literature, the reason that it works better is that it puts on a harder finish on the unit as opposed to just using one's hand to remove the wax.

After trying a few cheap buffers from Auto Shack, O'Oreilly's, etc. I learned about Porter Cable products. This buffer is supposed to have an oscillation which cannot burn into the paint. Another key is to change pads often and many of the kits have wetting agents to help the pads. It is amazing at how swirl marks can be made to disappear.

Go slow and don't get in a hurry and you should like the result. Good luck

[a k]

I've got the porter one and it works great. Can't burn the finish. I use cleanable pads.

Porter 6" Random Model #7336sp
Sonus son-sfxpad-kit.
I also use a Sears 11" orbital buffer and tie it on an extension pole and do the whole thing from the ground.

[Steve N Sal]

I purchased my 6" orbital buffer at WalMart. Cost was $15.00 and I've had it for 3 years. I've done the coach numerous times with it as well as our car. I always use NuFinish. I apply it to the pad sparingly and apply it to the coach. Remove when it dries to a haze by hand with a micro fibre cloth. Couldn't be easier.

[LindyT]

I'll preface this by saying I'm not your average slap a coat of wax on and call it a day kind of guy, most would consider my detailing "regimen" excessive... my wife has a less endearing term for it.

I use the Flex - but also have a Porter Cable 7424.... I prefer the Flex.

Mine was just gone over with Menzerna intensive polish on an orange pad to remove swirl marks and tree scuffs, then lighter polish to remove the holograms left from the intensive polish, then a coat of Zaino sealant to finish it off. Zaino can be used on everything -- the rubber, glass, trim, etc... it does not stain, unlike most paste waxes and goes on and off very easily, like most synthetic polymer polish/glaze/sealants.

If you use a good wax/sealant and maintain by hand washing (no Blue Beacons or similar) - it will last most of the season.

As for burning through the paint... you're thinking of a rotary polisher. The purpose of a DA is to prevent such things. If you use a clean, proper pad and ensure the surface is free of contaminants - you'll be perfectly fine.

[Lued]

I like my Porter Cable, I've had it over 10 yr, works great, and you can one hand it.

[Gary - K7GLD]

I've been using a Harbor Freight 10 inch orbital - works great on the broad expanses - but sorta wish I had bought their 6 inch as well for the tighter spots. The wax I use is Meguiars best paste stuff, hand applied, initially wiped off with an old T-shirt, then buffed on out - comes out great on a 22 year old Winnebago...

[Spikester]

I also use a Porter Cable 7424, had it for about 10 years, works great. Use it to apply paint cleaner, and also wax, hand buff/remove, (Blackfire Products)

Spike

[Romeo]

I have been considering a dual head orbital polisher since I have heard that they dont cause swirls.

Cyclo Dual Head Orbital Polisher

I wanted to rent one first to see how they worked but cant find anyone in town that rents them. Additionally, I am not thrilled about have to pay close to $300 for something that I cant try first. Of course its all relative; I hear that Newmar charges $2000 for a wax. Locally they want about $500, so $300 for a tool that one can use more than once sounds cost effective... wonder if my wife will think so?

If anyone has used one or has any thoughts on a dual head unit, I would like to hear about it.

[Romeo]

I found the following informative link that answers a lot of my questions about buffers and buffing:

How to choose the right polisher for your detailing project - Auto Geek Online Auto Detailing Forum

[kenn6645]

Thanks to everyone for the input. Have purchased a 6" Porter Cable. The link to the polishing instructions was helpful. Lindy T, I think I agree with your wife I'm sure my first attempt won't be excessive.

[Romeo]

I decided to purchase the Porter Cable 7424xp. A local paint supply shop had it priced a $247. I found it on the internet for $117, free shipping, not tax, at MaxTools. I received it today and gave it a try.

Now I have to figure out what speed to use and when.

[LindyT]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Romeo I decided to purchase the Porter Cable 7424xp. A local paint supply shop had it priced a $247. I found it on the internet for $117, free shipping, not tax, at MaxTools. I received it today and gave it a try. Now I have to figure out what speed to use and when.

Nice machine - you'll be pleased!

Here is a decent guide and how to use it. Starting at a lower speed will reduce the "sling" effect of the polish... once you start working the polish in, you can increase it. For correction (swirl removal, etc.) you can go up to 6 when it begins to work in.

Enjoy!