Polishers, Buffers & Pads

    The first question people ask is, "Why should I invest in a machine polisher?" The first reason is that a machine allows you to detail your vehicle in a fraction of the time it would take by hand. Secondly, it will do a better job of detailing than you can do by hand. There is just no way you can duplicate, by hand, the finish obtained using a machine polisher.

    If you decide to try a machine polisher, it's important to select the proper machine. Basically there are two different types of polishers. One we call an orbital machine and the other we call a circular, or rotary machine. Random orbital machines are the safest to use as the pads do not rotate or "cut". With random orbital machines, like the Porter Cable 7424, the pads oscillate or "jiggle". They do not rotate so this machine can not create swirls. Orbital machines can not remove paint or clear coat. If you're new to machine polishing, we strongly recommend you start with an orbital machine like the Porter Cable 7424. When used with the proper foam pad, it will allow you to quickly, easily and safely apply a compound, polish, glaze, liquid wax or sealant. Orbital machines make maintaining a new or like-new vehicle a breeze.

    As vehicles age, they are likely to acquire some swirls, spots and scratches, the scars of daily life. The only way to fully remove a defect in the paint is to remove the layer of paint or clear coat that contains the blemish. You literally abrade away the surface until the defect is gone. You can't do this with a random orbital machine because the pads do not rotate or "cut". Removing a defect in paintwork requires a circular or rotary machine polisher. With a circular polisher, the pads are forced to rotate to "cut" or abrade away the paint. These machines require more skill on the part of the operator because they can, if used improperly, cut or "burn" all the way through the paint right down to bare metal. The key to using a circular polisher is using the right pad and polish for the specific task and constantly monitoring the results so you know when to stop. We do not recommend first time machine users start with a circular or rotary machine polisher. That said, once you've detailed your car a few times with an orbital machine and gained a basic understanding of polishing technique, there's no need to fear circular machines. Start slow, keep the speed down, use common sense and you'll be able to remove scratches, water spots and swirls like a pro.

    Detailers and serious enthusiasts will own both types of machine polishers. Ninety eight percent of the time, I use a Porter Cable 7424, orbital machine but when I have to remove a deeper swirl, scratch or water spot, I will reach for my circular polisher.