I have been using my PC for several years. Easy to use and great machine for learning and experimenting. But I think I am ready for an upgrade.
I am nothing more then a detail enthusiast and only work on my own cars. I have no intention at this point to take detailing beyond a hobby.
I am interested in hearing from you guys on what machines you have, what are the pros and cons and any recommendations you may have.

 

I have a PC which I replaced with a Flex 3401 with "forced rotation" 11 yrs ago.... I was tired of the PC stalling on me. I used a Griots Cordless (now discontinued) for "wax spreading" and love it. I recently added a Flex XFE cordless as a companion to my Flex Pixie cordless.... I love cordless and willing to pay for it.
I like you, am a hobbist but love working with a good quality machine in my hands. I travel, visiting family and polish their vehicles and appreciate the challenge they give me.
Griots have some nice corded machines in the $150+ range that are well regarded and two friends are happy with them.

 

We all started with a PC, the machines in this video will correct faster and is easier on your hands.
Here is a good video explaining the different machines we sell, let me know if you have any question.

 

I've had a PC for 8 years now and recently purchased the Griots G9 , I love it! I've kept my PC set up with my 4" pads.

 

Started w a Griot's 6" DA, kinda akin to the Porter Cable. Since then curiosity led me to pick up a Flex 3401, Griots BOSS 21, Rupes LHR15 Mk2, Rupes LHR75 Mini and had a Rupes Duetto for a month or 2.

The Flex was nice (forced rotation) and for a while it was my go to machine as it's less dependant on technique as it NEVER stalls; can jam that thing anywhere and that pad just keeps on spinning. It can be a somewhat tiring machine to use, heavier and more vibrations than the Rupes or BOSS. Using the Flex is like kicking down the door to get in a room while Rupes & BOSS ling throws are like picking a the lock; same results, different methods and after-effects. Running a Flex for 8hrs grew tiresome.

It took me a bit to get better/effective with the long throw polishers (BOSS 21 & Rupes 15) but once I was, I rarely pick up the Flex anymore. I took an enthusiast detailing class last October where they *really* showed me some pro tricks/methods for the Rupes, things you dont see in most YouTube videos; it was truly transformational w regards to using it and it's now my favorite machine (a long with BOSS 21 for hoods, roofs and trunks.

A Rupes, while expensive, is truly a nice machine, smooth as butter, a joy to use but could be a bit frustrating until I figr'd it out and was shown the little things that made a world of difference.

The BOSS machines are very nice too and have since been redesigned a bit and the price lowered. I kept some thoughts on differences between BOSS & Rupes here: https://budgetplan1.wordpress.com/ot...ff/#BOSS_RUPES

I'm not a pro, only do a few cars a year but was curious regarding different machines so wanted to buy/try a few. The Duetto w its 12mm throw is liked by many, but was unnecessary for me with all the others I had so I sold it. Great machine though, a bit more throw than the 8mm PC, GG6 and new G9 and its 9mm throw.

I'd guess that unless your a fan of great tools for their own sake (which would point you towards a Rupes) either the G9 or BOSS 15 might be things you'd enjoy. Griots has a great lifetime warranty for 'no questions asked' replacement which is nice too.

lotsa other similar machines out there but it's tough to beat a Griots for an occasional hobbyist.

 

Correct me if I'm wrong, but don't you want the machine to stall if you "jam it anywhere", so it doesn't damaged your finish?

 

There is always that risk although the dual action rotation mitigates that a bit. But yes, if you get crazy careless, it will, uh...leave a mark when you get overly aggressive/enthusiastic. Pretty much common sense avoids that...pretty much 😄

Then again, you can damage paint with anything if you *really* want to but overall DA's, even forced rotation, are pretty safe.

 

Thanks to all for your responses. I have decided to go with the G9. Right features and price point for me. Also went with the 5 inch backing plate so I can take advantage of the pads I already have.
I am intrigued by the Adams mini and will seriously consider a future purchase.

 

Good choice, report back after your first "buff"!

 

You guys already know how much I love my G9. I have been working the hell out of it since January. It may not have the 15mm or 21mm throws of the bigger machines, but that's okay. It is still a 1000W powerhouse! With a swapped 5" vented backing plate and 5.5" pads, my little G9 has managed to fix some pretty jacked-up paint. Meg's microfiber cutting disks and Meg's M100 compound work well with the G9...

 

Can someone explain to me what "throw" means? I've been detailing for 8 yrs and have no idea what it refers too.

 

https://www.apexcustoms.com.au/pages...hrow-important

 

I just purchased a GRIOTS G9 Polisher.
Can I successfully use my Generic (Nn Vented) 5" Backing Plate without Issue ???
vs the More Expensive Griots Branded VENTED Backing Plate ????

What about 3" Backing Plate and Pads on a Griot 9
or should I only use my PC7424XP for the 3" pad sizes

Chuck

 

long-throw 21mm unit the oscillation pattern of the head is the pad swings out much farther as it orbits around the center. So a 21mm throws out 21mm from center to outside of pattern basically. Does not seem much of a difference on paper, until you use one. The "long" throw units I feel are much more effective and can lessen the time spent, but have other caveats. I would humbly recommend getting a standard throw if you have never used one. I think they have a bit of a learning curve..

 

Making recommendations for buffers is a good idea, but please don't forget the other tool that goes hand it hand with a buffer...a tool you will use before, during and after you've used your buffer.

Regardless of what size or brand you acquire - you will 100% need one of these...it is like another pair of eyes that you use during every step in the process.


Scangrip Sunmatch 3. It can be a best friend or a dream smasher. Only your clear coat decides. And both your clearcoat and the inspection light never lie!

 

I usually just push hard until I see primer then back off slightly..

 

Sure...that'll buff right out!

 

Yes to the first?- No issues there