Looking to start using a power car wax buffer. Any suggested brands?
Lots out there but appreciate some first hand knowledge.

 

I use Porter Cable's 7242XP DA buffer. I've had really nice results with using Meguiar's MicroFiber paint correction system as recommended by Innovative Detailing---you can find more in the detailing section of the forum.

 

Are you just looking for something to apply wax? I had a Porter Cable 7424 (non-XP), and that would be plenty for applying wax. However, if you are trying to do paint correction with polishes, etc., the 7424XP is probably a good one for starters. I have a Flex VRG 3401, which is quite a bit more expensive, but much more powerful (and works faster) than the 7424XP. Would make a good second polisher after learning on the 7424XP.

 

Porter Cable 7424XP without a doubt.

I was a TOTAL novice to detailing a car until coming to this forum a year ago. I bought the PC 7424XP with a number of different colored pads based on the guidance here plus Google research. It is awesome.

I've used it for swirl removal, polishing and waxing. Since it is DA, it is virtually impossible for even a novice to screw things up assuming one follows the instructions. Ah, again the least read book in the world...the owners manual.

The detailing section of the forum will give you a good starting point

My 2c.

 

The Cyclo Polisher is the best tool on the market for polishing. Originally designed to polish aluminum aircraft to a mirror finish, with the correct pads and polish it'll do the same for paint. It is a professional tool built like an old Kirby Vacuum of polished cast aluminum, with two DA heads 4" in dia, and very durable. It is expensive but every part is replaceable and will last forever. This is a fantastic polishing machine that can be used safely by a novice without damaging the finish.
Regards,
White Bear.

 

Thanks for the info! Didn't even realize there was a detailing section. I'll check it out.

 

The Flex XC 3401 VRG is clearly superior!!!!!

 

Meguiars has a kit with the pads and everything that is highly rated and well priced.

 

I have to agree with everyone else. The Porter is the way to go. I used the Meguiars kit on my XK and it worked great.

 

Thanks to all. Bought Porter Cable and detail kit.

 

As a car enthusiast for over 55 years, I’ve found the Griot’s Garage (griotsgarage.com) products to be among the very best. I’ve used them for 20 years, including their multi-speed,random orbital machine ($140); polishing, waxing and buffing pads for every situation ($10 each); paint-cleaning clay ($20); four abrasive levels of polish ($15 each); and carnauba wax ($10). Go to their website and request a catalog. You’ll be amazed with the variety of their offerings, the quality of their products and their 100% Lifetime Guarantee on EVERYTHING they sell. If you’re new to serious car detailing, they also have a great spiral-bound Detailer’s Handbook ($13) that covers all of the steps for keeping your Cat looking show-ready! For the record, I’m not employed by Griot’s Garage nor do I have any relationship whatsoever with Griot’s Garage … other than being along-term satisfied customer.

 

Did my first run thru with PC orbital. 3 different pads, cleaner, wax and gloss sealer. Did my Explorer for "practice". Low speed, light pressure and it came out really nice for my first power wax. So much of a time saver! Will do my wife's car next then my Jag.....
Worth every Penny!

 

Chakka's comments are right on! As long as you use a brand name power unit, correct pads for the job (polishing, waxing and buffing require different pads to optimize the job) and good quality polish, wax, etc., it's easy to keep your Cat looking great. It takes far less time, clean up is easy and the results are amazing. And, because it's so easy and results so good, you'll be detailing your Cat more often! They even make special pads and glass polish for polishing your windshield and windows to get out any small abrasions from sand or rock hits. To clean up, just soak pads in a bucket of warm soapy water, squeeze them like a sponge, then let them dry. Also, I use a Sharpie pen to mark the side of each pad with the word 'wax', 'polish 1', 'polish 2', 'polish 3', 'buff', 'glass', etc. so I always use each pad in the future for the same job I used it for in the past. I also use microfiber clothes in lieu of rags, old diapers, etc. There's nothing better than microfiber! If you have smears after cleaning your windshield or windows, use glass cleaner and paper towels first to get the dirt off, but then clean them again with 2 microfiber clothes, first one damp, then a one dry. Your windows will shine with no smears. P.S. Do the same on bathroom mirrors!

 

I'll re-wash the car between chemical coats to get rid of residue.

 

Good idea. I also use a after a simple wash or a complete detailing to dry wheels, tires and the space between the fenders and doors, fenders and trunk, fenders and hood, etc.

 

I have used white basket type coffee filters instead of paper towels with great results as the filters have no perfume which causes streaks.

Recently I started using DuPont Sontara aerospace grade wipes which are excellent although a bit on the expensive side. I order them from Skygeek.com at about 12 bucks for a box of 100. Since my wife discovered that they do not streak the windows or mirrors I now order multiple boxes. Must keep her happy!

 

I used to work in a professional detailing shop while in college. We used to use tar remover on the whole vehicle during the prewax wash in order to remove the tar fron the rims, and all over the car. Also removes old wax. Does anyone use this step in their regimen? Just curious

 

Sounds pricey to do it that way. I'll use it on actual tar spots and stains, but that is it. Using dishwashing liquid instead of car wash soap also takes wax off and is a Joy (pun) to wash the car with.

 

Just ordered a Porter cable kit 7424 XP $157.oo Thanks