Porter Cable Orbital buffer

[vette2viper]

In reading a recent post about the new NXT Tech Wax, I noticed frequent references to the Porter Cable Orbital buffer. My question here is about this buffer, not any specific wax.

Is this a buffer a novice can use without wiping out the paint? I always heard that a buffer could be your worst nightmare, yet ya'll refer to it as a piece of cake that does a great job.

I'm not all thumbs, but want to make sure I'm not getting into something that is really for "experts" only. Are these buffers available at places like Home Depot, Lowes, etc? Is there a specific model to seek out? Any info would be greatly appreciated.

 

[CROM]

www.autopia.org and then go to the forums. Seems like their site is down at the moment. Once it is up, do a search for Porter Cable and you will find everything you need to know. You have two options, the 7424(Random Orbital Polisher) or the 7336(Random Orbital Sander).

The counterweights on the 7336 are supposed to make it run a bit smoother than the 7424. I have the 7336 and really like it. With the proper waxes, polishes, and applicator pads you can remove just about any paint imperfection you will encounter. Definitely makes the Viper look GOOD!

 

[BigCarrot]

It's nearly impossible to burn your paint with an orbital buffer. No worries.

 

[CROM]

On any car with a good paint job and a clear coat I wouldn't worry as long as you are using the correct polishes. You can throw some non-clear coat safe rubbing compounds on and take off plenty of paint.

I pulled the paint off the bumper of a Supra the other day, but that part of the car had been repainted, poorly.

 

[vipergts2000]

This buffer rocks.....Just buy a set of pads to only use on the Viper....

 

[Wayne]

I have one and use foam pads with it.
Works great!
Coastal tool was the cheapest I found BTW.
Set rpms lower while getting used to it. (variable from 1000-6000)

 

[Paul Hawker]

I was introduced to this buffer at a Meguiars day event for Vipers. It makes applying the polish easy, and does a far better job than using just your hands. I still remove the polish by hand. They are for sale lots of places, including the web. The key seems to be using a seperate buffing pad for each type of wax/polish. Pads are held on by velcro. No worries about hurting your finish. The only tip is to make sure the pad is flat on the paint before turning it on, and before turning it off to avoid splattering of products. Putting blue painters tape over anything you do not want buffed is also a good idea.

 

[vette2viper]

Hey guys...thanks to all for the great info. As always, you guys rock when looking for answers from experienced people. If I understand correctly, I should put the wax ON with the buffer, but wipe it OFF by hand?

Thanks again...

 

[CROM]

No, not really.

This buffer isn't typically used for the application of your final waxing/shining products. What this buffer is good for is applying rubbing compounds(clear coat safe) and polishes/paint cleaner waxes. Final coats of wax like say NXT or ZAINO are to be applied by hand.

This buffer is good for getting out any imperfections/waterspots/light scratches/ in the paint.

 

[agentf1]

Zaino by hand and NXT or past wax better with buffer and finishing pad, quicker atleast. Go to www.properautocare.com for velcro backing plate and foam pads. Meguiars also has nice pads. Be careful with the firm pads as they seem to mar the paint. Get the PC at Lowes for 99 bucks (7336) and toss the pad it comes with and use either the Lake County or Meguiars pads. Alot of good info on this in the Car Care section of Corvette Forum and on the BMW forum.

 

[pdmracing]

Come do my car!

 

[Newport Viper]

I use the PC set at 3.0 to apply NXT with Meguiars finishing pad.

To remove, I set it at 3.5 with Meguiars microfiber bonnet to remove.

Follow with Meguiars edgeless microfiber towels, for hard to get to areas.

You will NEVER apply/ remove wax by hand....... ever again, if you try it.

You can do it with Zaino too!


Go here for more information.http://www.meguiarsonline.com/forums/