Hi From So. Cal.

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Hi. I just joined and am a novice. I have already started to learn quite a bit just from reading posts from many people here, especially the stuff Mike Phillips writes about. I really never knew the extent of products out there and techniques used to apply them. It's a whole other universe. I've purchased a rotary buffer and some pads (still in packages until I got some time to use them.) Next up is buying the right products to use w/ these tools.

I own 3 vehicles - a black '96 4Runner that I hope to sell soon. This will be my 1st trial run vehicle to test out the methods I learn on this forum. My daily driver is a dark green '95 Volvo 850 turbo wagon. This will be the one I refine my skills on. Finally, is the big job: a black '06 Lincoln Navigator. I hope to fix a lot of errors left by the previous owner.

I look forward to the journey and all the assistance I'm sure to receive here.
 
I've never used a rotary...but have heard a lot of horror stories. Most people on here say if your going to start with a rotary go to a scrap yard and get a junk panel to practice on first.
 
DaveT435 said:
I've never used a rotary...but have heard a lot of horror stories. Most people on here say if your going to start with a rotary go to a scrap yard and get a junk panel to practice on first.
Click to expand...

Why is that? Is there a skill level one should be at to use one? Do you use a DA or apply by hand?

I was going to start on my 4Runner because it has a dent and somw paint damage, so I would start on the damaged panel and go from there. Can't really do too much damage since it'll need to be fixed anyway.
 
Welcome to AGO!!

You can burn paint with a rotary if you aren't careful. DAs have a shallower learning curve.
 
Welcome to Autogeek Online!

I would recommend purchasing a Dual Action polisher as they are more user friendly for people new to machine polishing.
 
Thanks for all the welcomes. I think I am going to save up some money and dig into the seat cushions and and find some change to purchase a DA. From what I've been reading, I'll want to have a lot of different tools at some point in the future. So I'll hang onto what I've got and save up for that DA, and hopefully a good sale too.

For now it's read, read, read and watch a bunch of how-to videos. Just soak up the wealth of knowledge here.

Thanks again!
 
:welcome: To Autogeek Online! :props:

What brand and model of rotary did you buy?

While a rotary takes a little getting used to, it's isn't some sinister, inherently evil tool waiting to tear the paint from your hood....:laughing:

Like all tools it takes some practicing but you'll be pleasantly surprised how well a rotary polisher works.

  • Use 6" to 6 1/2" pads
  • Get comfortable with low rpm's
  • Work small sections at a time
  • Take your time and do not rush
 
Thanks for the advice BobbyG. I bought a relatively inexpensive one. It's Black & Decker 7" Polisher. It's variable speed and has an 11 Amp motor. It came with 1 wool polishing bonnet, but I bundled the order w/ a suggested set of two 8" Waffle Foam Grip Pads (1 orange/1 black) and a 100% Wool Pad along with a 5/8" Threaded Grip Backing Plate. I planned on getting more pads to expand the variety for different applications when I purchase the compounds/polishes/waxes.

Two of my vehicles already need a paint job because of clear coat damage, so it's not like I can really damage it anymore. I just planned on working on the worst panels first and working my way to the better panels, perfecting my technique, so to speak. By the time I feel confident enough to work on my Navigator I hope to have enough knowledge from reading & watching, as well as practice time, not to inflict any damage.

Thanks again for everyone's help and encouragement. I've already learned a lot in such a short period of time.
 
Well, I took the plunge. I decided to go with a DA, just because of everything I've been reading and the videos I've been watching. Since I've never used a rotary I think it would be wise for someone like me at my level to go with the right tool for my 1st foray into the detail world. I'll return my rotary and pads since I never used them and get some money back.

I decided to go w/ the Porter Cable 7424XP Polisher package that has 3 CCS foam pads, and Pinnacle XMT Fine Swirl Remover and Carnauba Finishing Glaze. Also used the 20% sale to get the Pinnacle Ultra Poly Clay package w/ the clay bar, lubricant and MF towels. While I was looking for deals I checked the BOGO page and got another couple MF towels. Used the free shipping code in lieu of the Labor Day code, as that couldn't be applied to the DA package, so I feel I got the most bang for the buck. Hopefully I'll get the free mystery gift too.

I look forward to sharing my 1st experience using these new items with the experts here & getting valued feedback.

Thanks.
 
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