After reading the FAQs and various threads about the PC 7336, I finally broke down and bought one that was on sale $99. I also picked up some Sonus pads to go with it.

I've read in one of the threads that you only need to apply light pressure (some one mentioned 1 lbs of force) when using the PC. Does that mean that the weight of the unit itself (6lbs) is too heavy? For example, I was using the unit on the hood of my car, and used one hand to guide it but not really support the weight or hold it up in any way. Is that okay? Or should I be supporting more of the unit's weight.


I ask this because I noticed when I use the PC it looks like the pad is not really spinning that fast, maybe 1 rotation a second compared to being too fast to count when the pad is not in contact with any object.

 

The random orbital buffer gets is name from the action of the buffer (or polishing head) This operates by the shaft rotating and spinning the back plate on an orbit radius or an eccentric offset (or throw) of 5/32-inch as opposed to a revolution on a direct-drive system

The random orbital buffer operates with a variable speed, user adjustable, from 2,500 – 6,000 orbits per minute. (Speed # 1-5 also have a half speed setting. The application of detailing products with a random orbital has the advantage of ensuring an even pressure and constant contact speed, mimicking free hand motion but at a far greater speed. By allowing the weight and the random motion of the machine do the work, thus ensuring that the product is applied in a thin even layer, and will allow products to get embedded deeper into the paint film surface's porosity.

A random orbital buffer won't leave swirl or buffer marks on your paint. That's because it doesn't spin like a rotary nor does it have the rotaries speed or power. The elliptical motion mimics hand movements (only much, much faster) so paint won't burn.


[each one / teach one, then student /becomes teacher]

 

I've always preferred to just let the weight of the machine be enough. I add just a tad for mnipulation, and thats about it, but never any really noticeable downward pressure.......

 

If, according to you, it's rotating 1 rev/sec, you're applying way to much pressure.

 

with all...Too much pressure on a PC and you'll be going thru your pads very quickly...

 

1 lb. of pressure is nothing. In order to completely remove swirls you have to remove a bit of paint/clear to level the paint surface. A PC with a polishing pad is not harsh on the paint even at max speed (#6). I would remove the handle and put at least 10-15 pounds of pressure over the pad while cleaning/polishing the paint. Don't be shocked I have tried both ways and I will never use light pressure for the cleaning/polishing step again. It's a waste of time with little results. You can get a floor scale to test how much pressure you are using. The action of a PC is very mild. It's nearly foolproof! My bread and butter combo is using the PC at setting 5, 10-15 pounds of pressure, Meguiars 8006 polishing pad, Meguiars Speed Glaze (#80), and top it with your favorite wax/polymer/etc. This combo will remove your swirls if they are mild. If you need more action then try Meguiars Dual Action Cleaner Polish (#83). If the scratches or swirls are worse then you will need a rotary. Only a trained pro should use this type of polisher on the paint otherwise a rotary can do some damage in the wrong hands. Always start off with the least abraisive product. Check out this link for my Civic with over 240K miles on it.

My Civic

 

where did you pick up the PC for $99?

 

Stiffer pads like the Orange and Yellow, need additional pressure to compensate for the density, but I dont bare down on them. Todays Porsche 997 detail with an Orange pad and SSR 2.5, was quite the challenge. I dont think I added any more then maybe 5-7 lbs of additional pressure, to remove some what I would call better then average scratches, and wash induced scratches (not swirls). Topped with UPP, it was beautiful.......The owner tipped me 50%............I was pretty happy....=)

 

You can get a 7336 at Lowe's for $109.

 

Thanks guys.
When I run it without touching anything that puppy spins like crazy. You can see the random offset action but on the car with just the weight it looks like its hardly spinning at all. Of course it could actually be spinning so fast that it just looks like its not spinning. If that makes sense at all.

BTW: I got mine from Slim's Power Tools, but they're in Hawaii. The Lowes price was pretty cheap though.

 

Best suggestion I've seen on this forum is to "practice" with the PC (unplugged of course) and the pad covered in a plastic baggie. Put it on top of a bathroom scale and look at the needle. This will tell you how much weight you are applying on the finish.

 

Saw a Lowes flyer with the 7336 at $109 but when I got to the store it was on for $99.00. (back in Aug)

Got lucky I guess.

 

the porter cables usually go for around $80 around xmas time in case someone reads this come next december