i can borrow a buffer but need help

Now, which one for sure is it....a buffer? Dual action, random orbital (aka porter cable)? Or, a rotary?

If it's a rotary, don't even bother. Unless you're proficient, and I mean VERY proficient, it's very easy to burn the paint.

If it's a buffer (random orbital type), those are fine to apply wax/polish, but won't do anything to help remove scratches or to work on old paint.

If it's a porter cable, they're almost impossible to screw up with.

If it is typically used for woodworking it likely won't work. The Porter Cable is one of the only "woodworking" type devices that has enough Torque to work on car paint.

I second that if it is a rotary (No random motion, just spinning) to back away. You will most likely do more harm than good if you don't know what you are doing.

You can get very good results by washing, clay and a good quality cleaner wax (color X or similar) all by hand. You will be worn out, but the car can come out very good.

Both of the above posts are correct.


If you don't know the answer to these questions here's a 'rough' way to know.

If the buffer vibrates then it's an orbital/dual action. If the disc/pad just spins fast whenever the trigger is depressed then it's a rotary. If this is the case and it doesn't have a variable speed control then there's no way it should come close to car paint. Even if it is a variable speed rotary buffer then (like sanman said) you need to know what you are doing or you will roast your paint. If it is a orbital/dual action then you can use it and you'd have to be a tard to mess something up ..

Why not be safe and just use the fore arms that god gave you to wax it? I am a chick, and a detailer by day. I wax 3-4 cars per week by hand. You can do it. I just think it's safer this way. I like being able to feel how the wax goes on and comes off....it lets me know how much force to use to shine the area. I will never use a buffer because one rock in it and you're done, or leave it in one spot too long and the paint will look like swiss cheese!

smokin00GT said:

Why not be safe and just use the fore arms that god gave you to wax it? I am a chick, and a detailer by day. I wax 3-4 cars per week by hand. You can do it. I just think it's safer this way. I like being able to feel how the wax goes on and comes off....it lets me know how much force to use to shine the area. I will never use a buffer because one rock in it and you're done, or leave it in one spot too long and the paint will look like swiss cheese!

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That's true, but if the paint's oxidized, has waterspots, acid etched, or has a lot of scratches, good 'ole elbow grease won't help. A DA with the proper scratch remover will be the only way to refresh the paint.