blackjackman

nOOb on this:
I need recommendation on a PorterCable or PC-like polisher,
that can be used to polish and wax. budget: ~$150

lokman

Here's your basic Porter Cable 7336 random orbital sander/polisher from Lowe's for $100: http://www.lowes.com/lkn?action=prod...000041735-7336

That leaves you $50 for a backing plate (to attach the pads to) and the pads themselves. I suggest one polishing pad and one cutting pad at a minimum. You can find those at www.properautocare.com (http://www.properautocare.com/porcabpolac.html). You should be able to accomodate this in your budget easily.

www.autopia.org has a very good thread on Porter Cables and accessories for beginners, unfortunately their site is down until tonight.

Billiam

Read the Autopia forums extensively on this subject. From my readings there, most of those that own a PC seem to use it for polishing which, of course, if a different process than routine waxing. Also, I found mulitple instances of people mentioning that they masked the major edges of the body panels to prevent burning the paint. Sounded kind of risky to me.

owkone

IMO - mechanical polishers can be dangerous - it can take off too much of the clear coat if not very careful.

Manual Wax On - Wax Off is good for both the car and the person.

lokman

A random orbital polisher like a Porter Cable 7424 or 7336 is safe for paint/clearcoat and will not burn through it (although plastic can be different). In contrast, a pure rotary polisher spins in the one place over which it's held which builds up much more heat allowing the paint/clearcoat to be burned through. That is why random orbital polishers are recommended for beginners.

Some people mask the plastic trim for ease of cleanup as much as to avoid burning through paint.

Certain waxes can be applied with the polisher as well, or more likely, the polisher can be used to buff off the wax after it has been applied.

gsclifton

iTrader: (2)

I have a PC 7424. I have no complaints. It is great for polishing.

TSXtc

Porter Cable 7336 and backing plate. I would highly recommend at least two of every pad as they tend to get dirty quickly. If your buying Lake Country pads them two of each: black, yellow, orange and white.