[Surfrider]

Seems like a lot of junk out there, anyone I should look for/stay away from?


Trying to make life simple, hasn't worked so far!

 

[Rick_L]

I hate to confuse in the first reply, but why do you want an orbital polisher?

If you want to compound/polish a paint job, the best type of machine is a rotary with electronic speed control, like a Makita 9227C. Run it at 1000-1500 rpm (it will do more). Dewalt and Milwaukee made similar tools.

 

[G.R.]

I swear by Porter-Cable power tools, and the Porter Cable 7424XP Polisher & Edge 2000 DA Pad Kit is probably the best IMO. Certainly not cheap from around $160-222, but you pay for good quailty and longevity. I have an older version of the current 7424XP and it has worked well for me for near 10 years now.

A friend of mine gave me this site and this company sells polishers/detail kits, you can see what is available and compare quality and price.

http://www.autodetailingsolutions.net/car-auto-polishers.html

My brother-in-law has the Meguiar's G110V2 Dual-Action DA Car Polisher and has used it for a couple of years and likes it.

A lot of high end body shops use the Flex polishers...real pricey though

Personally I'd stay away from DeWalt their power tool line has really dropped in quality over the last several years IMO.

Good luck!

 

[57sc]

Whatever you do don't buy an off-line brand which has China written all over it. I made that mistake and bought one that sounded great. It was a variable speed and looked just like a Makita. Used it once and then after a few months went to use it again and the trigger switch wouldn't work. Tried to but a new switch and was told they are not available-" it costs more to import parts for these pieces of junk than it does to buy a new one." I since bought a Makita and am happy with it. I know, I know, a lot of the brands are made in China but at least there is some degree of assurance when you but a name brand.

 

[Surfrider]

I said "orbital" because I'm a newbie. I apprieciate the advice.

I agree you get what you pay for, I saw $30 products and thought they were probably crappy.

I'm getting deeper and deeper into my wagon, sold my Studebaker...thinking the wife and kids might go next!

 

[Danny F]

My favorite polisher is a Cyclo Polisher

I also have the 3" polisher from Griot's Garage.

Both are excellent but I use the 6" angle Porter Cable Polisher from Germany for the heavy compounding.

I use these to polish out mill finish aluminum on teardrop trailers. The first two are excellent on car finishes. Danny