New Buffer

[Boostin135]

So I just bought a new 10in buffer/polisher by craftsman and wanted to know if anyone has this or something similar they use on their car? I read reviews and so far I'm happy with what people are saying. Let me know your thoughts on it, and also any helpful info about using a buffer/polisher as this will be my first time using one and I don't want to ruin anything. Thanks!!

[sonicbimmer19]

I prefer 6 inch buffers because it is easier to handle but I'd say wax one section at a time and check your pad often. New toys are fun

[TOGWT]

Traditional orbital buffers like the Craftsman have been around since the 1950’s, possibly earlier. These types of buffers are relatively inexpensive and easy to find at most department stores like Wal-Mart or K-Mart, and also most auto parts stores in the $30.00 dollar range, these types of buffers are relatively cheap and easy to find.

These tools were designed to apply wax; they don't have enough power, speed or versatility to be used to remove swirls from modern clear coat paint finishes.

For detailing work, i.e. the removal of surface scratches requires a more specialized tool like the Porter Cable 7424XP or a Flex 3401, which can be fitted with different grades of foam pads to suit various polishing tasks, making them capable of more dramatic results

[Greg@DetailedImage]

I agree with TOGWT they usually just don't have enough power to work in a polish, which is the main advantage of of a buffer. My other complaint is that the bonnets and pads that come with these buffers typically are low quality and are more prone to marring the paint. I prefer a thicker foam pad for most detailing tasks, which are generally not available for these units.

In general I prefer the power and safety of the Porter Cable 7424XP Random Orbital Buffer and the foam pads you can get with it (i.e. Lake Country). Let us know if you need any further assistance.

Greg @ DI

[Boostin135]

Awesome, thanks for the advice. This is why I posted and asked before I went out and destroyed everything. I will definately take this back and get the porter. My buddy also has a porter and speaks well of it. I just picked this up because of the price and figured craftsman would be pretty well. Thanks guys!

[Boostin135]

Looking at the pads, and not knowing anything about buffers, there are so many Lake Country pads to choose from. Which is best for waxing and polishing?

[sonicbimmer19]

Originally Posted by Boostin135

Awesome, thanks for the advice. This is why I posted and asked before I went out and destroyed everything. I will definately take this back and get the porter. My buddy also has a porter and speaks well of it. I just picked this up because of the price and figured craftsman would be pretty well. Thanks guys!

Unless you plan on opening a probody shop or you have money to spend, I'd just settle with $30 dollar rotor that's meant to apply wax.

The advantage of ~$150 rotors is that it can do all. You can adjust speed and use it to simply apply wax at low speed (serious muscle work out if you do it by hand) or you can increase the speed to remove swirl marks, but how often do you do that?

It's up to you. Whichever you get, happy detailing!

[sonicbimmer19]

And you said you'll get the porter but 10" rotors are definitely a no no. 5-6" are perfect size and the porter seem to have 5" face. *thumbs up*