Polisher/Buffer

[Vinko]

I can't believe I didn't see this thread until now.

Would you consider putting the country of origin of your products on your site?

I don't mind paying premium prices (not suggesting all of yours necessarily are), but I like to know what I'm getting. If I'm buying a textile product for instance, and its made in Germany or Portugal (where I've found pretty good cloth for industrial cleaning), it's easier to justify costs.

 

[alohavw]

Anyone has a hands on comparasion of the Meguiars G110 or the Griots Garage polisher?

 

[Canadian Charlie]

I own a Porter Cable 7424 that I bought from "Autogeek.com" that have everything you need to get started.

I bought a set of pads, the polisher, cleaners, cloths and pretty much the works to get started.

They have the "Perfect Starter Kit" for $205

Kit includes:
Porter Cable 7424 Variable Speed Polisher
Dual Action 5 Inch Flexible Hook & Loop Backing Plate
2 CCS White 6.5 inch Polishing Foam Pads
1 CCS Gray 6.5 Inch Finishing Foam Pads
1 CCS Blue 6.5 Inch Finessing Foam Pad
2 Cobra Arctic White Edgeless Microfiber Polishing Cloths (16 x 16 inches)
12 oz. Pinnacle XMT Polishing Foam Pad Cleaner
12 oz. Pinnacle XMT Polishing Foam Pad Conditioner
3.5 inch Dual Action Flexible Backing Plate
4 Lake Country 4 inch Orange Light Cutting Pads






The polisher will give you excellent results, just take your time and don't rush. Check out some You-Tube videos on it

 

[Griot's Garage]

I figured I'd bump this thread with some fresh information since we just released an <a href="http://www.griotsgarage.com/product/car+care/car+polishing/orbitals+and+car+polishing+tools/griot%27s+garage+random+orbital.do">updated model of our 6" orbital</a>.

Here is a quick overview of the new machine along with a comparison of it and our previous machine. Both are great machines, but the new model is a huge upgrade.


Overview
The new Griot’s Garage 6” Random Orbital has been improved with features that make it more efficient and easy to use. The powerful 850 Watt motor was designed to provide more torque when polishing surface imperfections. The power is spread along a wider RPM range and provides more torque at lower speeds. We also increased the orbit diameter for improved polishing power. The ergonomic adjustable handle was added to allow the user to find the ideal position for comfort and control. Providing different handle settings also gives the user greater flexibility and use options where clearance may be limited. The long 10-foot power cord allows you to easily move around the vehicle.

Features
• The 7 Amp/850 Watt motor provides more torque
• Wider RPM range of use for polish, wax and sealant application.
• The larger 5/16” orbit diameter for improved polishing.
• Industry standard 5/16"-24 mounting stud for the backing plate
• Adjustable ergonomic handle for comfort and control.
• 10-foot power cord allows easier movement around the vehicle.

A great explination of the differences here: http://www.inmygarage.com/?p=1252

 

[Boiler]

After about 48 hours of reading threads like this and all kinds of pitches on the net, last night I singed the credit card and picket up a Flex 6.5", a Griots 3", a bunch of pads & stuff, some pinnacle polishes, and zaino sealant.

God help anything with a clearcoat that gets in my way.

 

[jayoldschool]

Anyone use any of the polishers from Princess Auto?

 

[ZRX61]

Would you consider putting the country of origin of your products on your site?

I don't mind paying premium prices (not suggesting all of yours necessarily are), but I like to know what I'm getting. If I'm buying a textile product for instance, and its made in Germany or Portugal (where I've found pretty good cloth for industrial cleaning), it's easier to justify costs.

Ever get an answer to this?

 

[Speed-Racer]

Have you looked at the Cyclo? It real easy to use and it has remained unchanged for over 50 years. It has a huge following and is worth considering.

http://www.cyclotoolmakers.com/index.php

http://www.autogeek.net/cyclo-polisher.htm

 

[Boiler]

What I would recommend to anyone that was planning on doing more than one polishing job:

1) Don't buy used, these things can get burned up and you risk wasting money on one thats shot.
2) Don't get a cheap one that has handles on opposite sides, and a big round surface. They don't have the power you need.
3) You can get the porter cable, but it is relatively slow and this can be a LONG job.
4) Be careful with rotaries as a novice (or a pro) can burn the paint if not extremely careful
5) Buy a FLEX. They are pricey (about 300) but they do the job faster than a PC, and safer than a rotary.
6) Buy a Griot's Garage 3". They are very nice for getting into small spaces or on narrow long stretches. I use mine with the FLEX and am very happy.

I do a round of scratch removal and then a finishing polish and it takes me 6-8 hours. This is of course after washing, claying, etc, so it is a LONG day. I surely wouldn't want to add to it by getting a slowpoke buffer. The PC is cheap though, and many swear by it, so if you have all weekend to spend cleaning & buffing, go for it.