Porter Cable

[doctordun]

Is it the best buffer out there? Are there different models and is one better than the other?
Is buffing that much better than by hand?
I've never used one, but I'm not as young as I used to be and looking for an easier path.

Getting new Tacomo this Friday and can't wait!!!!!!

[Pb]

Originally Posted by doctordun

Is it the best buffer out there? Are there different models and is one better than the other?
Is buffing that much better than by hand?
I've never used one, but I'm not as young as I used to be and looking for an easier path.

Getting new Tacomo this Friday and can't wait!!!!!!

There are more powerful ones, but they are also more dangerous for your paint. The PorterCable 7424 is the choice of many pros and also noobs. It's speed and orbiting action make it safer than some other big industrial buffers.

A buffer is a thousand times faster than your hand. It does a better job and it never gets tired. It doesn't matter if you're SuperMan, you won't be able to get the same results by hand.

If you only plan on waxing your paint, and never polishing, then you don't really need a buffer. You can apply wax by hand, but you better keep your paint looking perfect, because wax won't fix swirls and microscratches.

[screeber]

I've got a PC 7336, which supposedly has a better counterweight than the 7424. Otherwise it's the same tool.

It's helpful for applying waxes/sealants to the hood and other large body panels, and saves your arm a bit. You'll still need to apply by hand for those spots the PC can't get to. But as Pb pointed out, the real value of the PC is for polishing. It's an absolute must if you hope to remove swirl marks, minor scratches and other imperfections in the clear coat. The paint-prep stage prior to the final wax/sealant is much more important to the final outcome of your detailing.
If you use the right pad (yellow or orange) and an abrasive polishing compound, the PC can be pretty effective at getting rid of alot of serious/major paint flaws. It's a great tool; maybe not the absolute best one out there, but surely the best tool for the money.

[exceldetail]

Originally Posted by screbr

I've got a PC 7336, which supposedly has a better counterweight than the 7424. Otherwise it's the same tool.

Identical weights with the exception of a couple oz. Us ethe #6 for the 6" backing plate, the #5 for the 5" BP.......