I'm getting a new buffer, a porter cable 5 inch.

I now know that I need to get soft buffing pads.

But my main concern is how hard to push down on the tool?

Do I just let tool weight be enough, or do I lean on it some.

I'm just looking at buffing wax.

 

Never used one but, i would say press lightly. Be careful if you get a piece of dirt on that thing, its all over

 

Let the weight of the tool do the work. For applying wax use a speed or 1-2.

If doing scratch removal use higher speeds 4-5 and push only "slightly" harder to deform the pad slightly, but basically, the weight of the machine is the rule.

If you push too hard you will bog down the spinning action and only have the "jigging" action. (you want both for full effect) Feel free to experiment with this and you will see what I mean. It doesn't hurt anything, the tool has a clutch.

 

Thanks Brad

Kind of what I thought, but your input is always great

 

I was just showing someone this last week. I use just enough pressure to slow the spinning, but not stop it. It is usually just a slight bit of pressure... Not much more than the weight of the machine itself.

 

I love my Porter-Cable!!! Most of the time it's best to let the weight of the machine do the work. The only time I exert any pressure is when using a mild abrasive to remove scratches. If that doesn't work I switch to a coarser grit rather than leaning on it. Keep a good grip on the orbital. A couple of times while shifting position I let the handle dip down and put a minor scratch in my paint!
BTW, I gave up on the wax thing and am trying Griot's Paint Sealer going into this winter. Waxes never last past the first couple of snow storms. I was a little concerned about the look of sealer, but I applied it with the PC orbital and Nugget looks every bit as good as when he has fresh wax. Time will tell.

Pete

 

just got an email, Autopia is running a deal that gets you 20% off their Sonus Polisher Kit which is a Porter Cable 7424. Comes with some pads too. So it's $160 before shipping.

I've been debating picking up a DA polisher for a while. This might be the thing that pushes me over the edge.

 

Yup, I got the email, too. Consider me pushed over the edge.

Can we get more tips and tricks for us newbs?

I used to be religiously agaisnt using a machine polisher, but I want to start doing other people's cars for money, and I know the time saved will help a lot.

mb

 

OctaneGuy is the detail guru in SoCal! Hopefully, he will see this thread and offer his wisdom! :smile:


Clover

 

Toss the cord over your shoulder to keep it off the paint. Also, don't wear a belt buckle or pants with rivets when leaning over your car trying to reach that last spot in the middle!