I'm seriously considering purchasing a PORTER-CABLE Variable Speed Polisher, 6-Inch (7424XP). It will be used for occasional polishing and regular waxing/buffing. What accessories, pads, etc. do I need for this? What is a backing plate? Do I need a backing plate? I'll be grateful for any info and/or links that will help me understand what I need!

 

the backing plate is the part that attaches to the DA. You then attach your pad to the backing plate. the pad has one side of the Velcro and the backing plate the other...


Trust me...you will end up buying lots of different pads....the more dense the pad the more aggressive it is....

You can do better than the PC DA.

 

Thanks @rdx4me? . I posted this 10 days ago, and have since gotten it all figured out. The Porter-Cable is a perfectly fine DA for a light use beginner like me.

 

I've had my Porter Cable DA for years - it's great for light paint correction and general polishing!

 

And for your info, most of these DA polishers are not a DA polisher at all. If you put enough pressure on the pad while polishing, and it does not take much pressure, the pad no longer rotates. A tip is to place a mark on the side of the pad with a marker and when it stops rotating, lighten up on the pressure.

A true DA polisher has forced pad rotation like a XC FLEX 3401 VRG and has an orbit stroke, something like 8 mm.

 

Exactly right!
I've had a flex DA and really like it. In reviews I read before purchasing they claimed the Flex with both movements driven it can come very close to performing like a rotary machine without the risks of an inexperienced user.
I use it more fr fiberglass polishing on my boat but do use it on vehicles some also.