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Using an Orbital Buffer

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Old 07-05-2012, 07:29 PM
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LoveLife
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Using an Orbital Buffer

I'm new to car detailing, and I just recently purchased an orbital buffer from autozone for $25. I'd like to know when in the detailing process should I be using the buffer. Should I use the buffer to apply the polish after wash/dry? Should I also use it to apply sealant? How often should I use it?

Thank you for your help!
Old 07-05-2012, 10:36 PM
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trcb777
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Check this website out: everything you need to know about detailing.

We Are Car Care -- Car Wax, Car Polish, Auto Detailing Supplies, Car Buffers & Car Accessories Store
Old 07-06-2012, 06:17 AM
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TOGWT
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What I consider to be the best PC How-To available -Machine Polishing By Dual Action Polisher, Dave KG – Machine Polishing by Dual Action Polisher - Full Guide - Detailing World
Old 11-05-2012, 01:03 PM
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KC G37x
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I have also never used a polishing tool, but I plan on getting a dual-action polisher to remove the swirls on my 2009 G37. I don't have large enough scratches to warrant me buying a circular tool and running the risk of burning the paint, but I do have a question about dual-action; is there a limit to how much you can use the tool? For instance, if I polish now, and then notice swirling in a year or so, do I run any risk polishing the same area multiple times?
Old 11-06-2012, 05:31 AM
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TOGWT
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Originally Posted by KC G37x
I have also never used a polishing tool, but I plan on getting a dual-action polisher to remove the swirls on my 2009 G37. I don't have large enough scratches to warrant me buying a circular tool and running the risk of burning the paint, but I do have a question about dual-action; is there a limit to how much you can use the tool? For instance, if I polish now, and then notice swirling in a year or so, do I run any risk polishing the same area multiple times?
The amount of clear coat removed by 'normal' polishing utilizing an orbital polisher should not compromise the paint, but there is a finite amount that you can safely remove - “Clear Coat Thickness and UV Protection Removed by Polishing” - http://www.autopia.org/forum/car-det...-removal.html#
Old 11-20-2012, 06:39 PM
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Detailed Image
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Unfortunately many of those less expensive units don't have the necessary power to work in a polish properly and some of those bonnets may not be ideal for the paint. I'd highly recommend considering a Porter Cable 7424 XP if you want to be sure you'll get great results. Either way I'd suggest our detailing guide should have a lot of good information for you, especially the Polishing section. I'd also highly recommend checking out our Ask a Pro Blog, which has tons of good articles about maximizing a buffer direct from elite professional detailers. Good luck!

Greg @ DI
Old 11-20-2012, 07:12 PM
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dkmesa350z
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first step would be returning that $25 buffer.

Give this Porter Cable 7424XP a try.

You will want to use it to apply polishes for correcting paint imperfections. You can use is to apply glazes and sealants for ease of application using a softer pad and lower speed setting.

Meguiars M105 is my favorite cut compound for correcting swirl marks and moderate imperfections with a orange buffer pad. Then use Meguiars M205 to clear out any hazing and bring out a brilliant shine with a white buffer pad.

Last edited by dkmesa350z; 11-20-2012 at 07:18 PM.
Old 12-02-2012, 03:18 PM
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Moonlight_White
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Originally Posted by Detailed Image
Unfortunately many of those less expensive units don't have the necessary power to work in a polish properly and some of those bonnets may not be ideal for the paint. I'd highly recommend considering a Porter Cable 7424 XP if you want to be sure you'll get great results. Either way I'd suggest our detailing guide should have a lot of good information for you, especially the Polishing section. I'd also highly recommend checking out our Ask a Pro Blog, which has tons of good articles about maximizing a buffer direct from elite professional detailers. Good luck!

Greg @ DI
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