Porter-Cable vs. Cheap random orbital buffer ??
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Joined: Aug 2002
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From: Tampa FL
Porter-Cable vs. Cheap random orbital buffer ??
It looks like everybody raves about the porter cable buffer, so i'm sure its an excellent product. But I was just looking for some opinions on the cheaper models like the craftsman 10in Random orbital buffer that you can get for $29(on sale) right now. Are they really that much worse? And i'm talking for light jobs, waxing and polishing every other month or so. And also assuming you would use good high quality pads on both. The $100 price difference is pretty steep.
Race Director
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 13,292
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From: Hockessin Delaware
Re: Porter-Cable vs. Cheap random orbital buffer ?? (UFLS1Vette)
I've never used one, but if I remember right, the less expensive ones are fine for waxing or applying something like Meguiars #7, but lack the power to effectively use abrasive products like 3M SMR.
Drifting
Joined: Oct 2001
Posts: 1,479
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From: NY
Cruise-In III Veteran
St. Jude Contributor
Re: Porter-Cable vs. Cheap random orbital buffer ?? (DsC5)
I have a PC 7424, one of the best things I ever purchased, I rarely use my circular buffer anymore. If you seriously want to remove swirls or minor scratches, definatly go with the Porter Cabel. I got mine at coastaltool.com for $104.
[Modified by Silver2002, 11:48 PM 6/3/2003]
[Modified by Silver2002, 11:48 PM 6/3/2003]
Thread Starter
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Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 51
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From: Tampa FL
Re: Porter-Cable vs. Cheap random orbital buffer ?? (Bans25)
I agree the porter would definatly be the way to go for working out swirls with 3M or some other product. But i was just talking for waxing/polishing jobs that I do by hand now.
Thanks for all the input so far.
Thanks for all the input so far.
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 20,318
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From: Huntingdon Valley Pa/ Town of Webb NY
Re: Porter-Cable vs. Cheap random orbital buffer ?? (UFLS1Vette)
With most of the products of today application and removal by hand is the best way to get your products to last the longest, a PC buffer works best when using compounds and scratch and swirl products. :)
Instructor
Joined: Jul 2002
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From: Stewartstown PA
Re: Porter-Cable vs. Cheap random orbital buffer ?? (UFLS1Vette)
I've been using a Craftsman 7" orbital ($40) for about 3 years with no problems. I use the Sears blue pads and only use it to apply polish and/or wax. I remove the polish or wax by hand with good microfiber cloths (Giriot's Garage). It does a fine job on my black '90.
:seeya
:seeya
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Drifting
Joined: Jul 2001
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From: La Fontaine Indiana
Re: Porter-Cable vs. Cheap random orbital buffer ?? (DonRich90)
I have one of those 10 inch polishers from wal-mart that I have been using for about four years now and I like it. I have used it to remove swirls with the 3M smr and it worked good maybe not as fast as a high speed one but it is probably safer to use. Go for it I saw these on sale last week for $ 12.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2002
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Re: Porter-Cable vs. Cheap random orbital buffer ?? (black bart)
When using the PC, do you have to worry about cutting though the clearcoat? One of our cars has been BADLY neglected and is in need of a good buffing. Anything to worry about when using the PC? How about some tips on PROPER usage? :seeya
Safety Car
Joined: May 1999
Posts: 3,525
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From: Kenton TN
Re: Porter-Cable vs. Cheap random orbital buffer ?? (dads01dream)
When using the PC, do you have to worry about cutting though the clearcoat? One of our cars has been BADLY neglected and is in need of a good buffing. Anything to worry about when using the PC? How about some tips on PROPER usage? :seeya
Safety Car
Joined: May 1999
Posts: 3,525
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From: Kenton TN
Re: Porter-Cable vs. Cheap random orbital buffer ?? (UFLS1Vette)
I have a 1/2 HP orbital in the WEN brand name with a 10 inch head, it costs 39.99 and it has plenty of power to work whatever compund you like. I have been using it for years and years, very good results, many first place wins at Super Chevy Show..... Its only draw back is that I wish I could go to a smaller head like 6 inch or 8 inch to get into tighter places. I only use it when working compounds, not when using Zaino.
Advanced
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 87
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From: Cincinnati Ohio
Re: Porter-Cable vs. Cheap random orbital buffer ?? (KLO)
Since a vehicle manufacturer we supply a paint protectant product to, is kinda of cheap on what they provide the dealers, it is a Wen, like the one you are mentioning.
We go buy and ship about 500 a year of them, so here is some un-solicted advice.
Check the "screws" that hold the backing plate on regularly, they are under the thin foam pad that you put the bonnet on.
If those screws work loose, you got a real problem with clearcoat damage, like serious bodyshop trip.
Ketch
We go buy and ship about 500 a year of them, so here is some un-solicted advice.
Check the "screws" that hold the backing plate on regularly, they are under the thin foam pad that you put the bonnet on.
If those screws work loose, you got a real problem with clearcoat damage, like serious bodyshop trip.
Ketch
Safety Car
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From: financial-freedom-for-all.com
Cruise-In V Veteran
Cruise-In VI Veteran
Re: Porter-Cable vs. Cheap random orbital buffer ?? (UFLS1Vette)
But I was just looking for some opinions on the cheaper models like the craftsman 10in Random orbital buffer that you can get for $29(on sale) right now. Are they really that much worse?
