Hi guys, i'm a first time vette owner and i've been reading through here trying to get tips on how to remove some scratches and spiders marks in the paint. I've got myself so confused now lol. Maybe someone can clear things up for me.
I'm looking at the PC7424 (which seems to be popular here) - It says its 2500 - 6000 RPM.
The PC 7428 is 1000 - 3000 RPM
From what i've been reading, the recommended speed is 900 to 1200.
So from what i understand, the popular 7424 spins to fast. Am i misunderstanding something?

Beyond that, i guess i need a cut pad and a finish pad.
I think i am going to use ZPC and Z5.
Am I heading in the right direction?

 

The PC 7424 is an orbital polisher, not a rotary. The settings are OPM (orbits per minute). The orbital motion doesn't allow any appreciable heat build-up like one gets with a rotary.

For pads, I recommend light cutting, polishing, and finishing.

 

yes, it is very confusing.

Random Orbital Buffers: Also known as

1. ROB
2. "orbital"
3. DAP
4. "dual action polisher"
5. The term "PC", or "Porter Cable" of course is a brand name, but is by default used to mean this kind of polisher

For all of these - they use a complex movement of the pad that simulates random hand movements on your paint, but 1000X faster than you can do it by hand. But because the net effect on the paint is random, you will not buildup heat, will not cause swirls, and will not burn your paint. Disregard and numbers such as "orbits per minute" or "RPM's" when you're shopping for one of these machines - they're just really not relevant. You won't hurt your paint no matter the speed. What you do want is a machine that is adjustable, so that you have the ability to start at a slow speed and gradually increase the speed if it is needed. Safest bet is not to do too much thinking on this one. ONE tool is used by 99% of the detailers for good reason - so don't fight it or talk yourself into getting something that's nowhere near as good - just stay with the Porter-Cable 7424.(PC7336 is identical)

Rotary buffers - also known as

1. "Rotary"
2. Makita
3. Hitachi
4. other brands available - my impression is that the Makita 9227 is the Classic Standard, but the Hitachi is the lesser known , perhaps equally qualified challenger which is much less expensive

These only make the pad spin in a circle. Great risk of damage to your paint from holograms, swirls, and burn-through. Better to get one of these after using the PC7424 for a year and having some experience. RPM's are very important on these machines. Most polishing can be done in the 1200 - 1500 range, perhaps rarely up to 1800. I would not expect the enthusiast ever to go above that (I stay below 1500). So that would give you an idea of what speed you need.


Also, with Zaino, only ZpC is an abrasive polish - and a very mild one at that. ZPC is done by machine, other products are only sealants that are applied by hand. If you only want to use zaino selanants to give a shine, but do not have need for scratch and swirl removal, then you have no need for a machine.

 

Fantastic write-up there by bugman.

I've got the PC 7424 and love it. Its foolproof. I use Menzerna products to address swirls, then Zaino polish products to protect the paint.

 

I have both but recommend you start with a ROB. Pick uo a Porter Cable 7336sp at Lowes for 90 bucks and get a velcro backing plate and some foam polishing pads from one of the vendors. They also sell complete kits.

 

Thanks guys! You've all been a big help.

 

http://www.autogeek.net/detailingtips.html

we offer several easy to read "how to's" and in the middle you will see on on random orbitals. You will use alot more speed with them, but much safer, and they can be a tremendous benefit.

remember on purchasing to consider that you will also need some pads, some product, and a flexible backing plate. We have designed some kits that work well should you need those also.