machine polishers

[3toM]

Quick question everyone. Is a random orbital the same as an orbital? Or is there a big difference in one that specifies itself as "random" :iono:

[3toM]

Anyone know??

[JohnL135I]

Yes, I believe they are the same to some degree. However, a 20.00 orbital buffer is not going to do anything to your paint.

I recommend the "FLEX" polisher over the porter cable polisher. The Flex has a lot more power.

I would stay away from a rotary polisher (non orbital).

http://www.detailedimage.com/Flex-M26/XC-3401-VRG-P128/

[AussieRacer]

Isn't an orbital and rotary the same thing? In that their sole motion is circular?

A random orbital mixes it up ever so slightly, but in doing so, ensure that its action can't make patterns in the surface it is used on.

[3toM]

I am not sure. I definitely want a random orbital, since I am a newbie when comes to this type of stuff. I plugged the orbital in question in today and turned it on. The pad spins around, but also has a sort of up and down displacment, sort of like moving up and down slightly as it spins around. Is that what is meant by "random orbital"?

[Nixon]

Originally Posted by 3to1

I am not sure. I definitely want a random orbital, since I am a newbie when comes to this type of stuff. I plugged the orbital in question in today and turned it on. The pad spins around, but also has a sort of up and down displacment, sort of like moving up and down slightly as it spins around. Is that what is meant by "random orbital"?

Yes. The up and down is the random part.

[rdkind62]

An orbital sander will just spin on a center point and a random orbital sander will also spin on a center point, but if you put a slight amount of pressure on it (as you would while buffing your car) it will also move in an eliptical pattern in addition to the circular motion.

[3toM]

Ok, will then I suspect what I have is a random orbital, which reassures me. What is the best material to use to polish, wax and buff with - microfiber, cotton bonnets, pads, etc?

[JohnL135I]

Originally Posted by 3to1

Ok, will then I suspect what I have is a random orbital, which reassures me. What is the best material to use to polish, wax and buff with - microfiber, cotton bonnets, pads, etc?

I would start with a white pad and Menzerna PO106FF. I would also recommend using a Halogen light (lowes has these for around 30.00) to really see what corrections your making on the paint. If you need more cut, step to an orange pad.

Microfiber is the only way to go, my personal choice.

Then, its your choice on what to use after a good polish.. wax or sealant. I recommend "Zaino" of course....but there are many choices on the market.