Looking to upgrade from a PC

[986DTM]

I mainly detail as a hobby but I'm starting to do more jobs for friends, family, neighbours etc and I'm looking to upgrade to a more effective machine. I just find the PC kind of taxing to use. While it was great to learn with, it's loud, not particularly smooth, and just isn't very ergonomic in my opinion. Correction speed is important to me but keep in mind I don't do this for a living so outright speed is not paramount. I just want something smooth, quiet, and comfortable if I'm going to be doing this more often. I would also like whatever I choose to be compatible with the 5.5" LC pads I already have. I'm looking at the lhr 15 and duetto right now. Thoughts? Suggestions?

[custmsprty]

Either or, I have both and a G21. I love my Duetto as it's light and easy to use but I'd go with either a Rupes 15 or G15/21 if I had to have one machine. You can get a G21 and 5" BP for flexability.

[Mike@ShineStruck]

GO g15 and also buy the Griot 3in HD backing plate to install on your PC

[PaulMys]

Although I understand your need to graduate from the PC, I'm not agreeing with the PC being "Loud, not particularly smooth, ......... and not ergonomic".

[VISITOR]

GO g15 and also buy the Griot 3in HD backing plate to install on your PC

or the G21 (with 5" backing plate) - two excellent choices regardless... :dblthumb2:

Griots Garage BOSS G21 Long-Throw Orbital Polisher Free Bonus! (http://www.autogeek.net/griots-garage-g21-long-throw-polisher.html)
http://ep.yimg.com/ay/autogeek/griots-garage-boss-g21-long-throw-orbital-polisher-1.gif
Griots Garage BOSS 5 inch Backing Plate (http://www.autogeek.net/griots-boss-5-inch-backing-plate.html)
http://ep.yimg.com/ay/autogeek/griots-garage-boss-5-inch-backing-plate-1.gif

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=em3wePHNE3I

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FtpgZV9vL1A

[986DTM]

Although I understand your need to graduate from the PC, I'm not agreeing with the PC being "Loud, not particularly smooth, ......... and not ergonomic".

I mean, it does make my arms pretty sore after a while and my ears start to ring if I don't wear earplugs or headphones. It also doesn't have any sort of integrated handle or built in trigger like most of the other polishers out there. I just can't help but think that I could find a unit that is more pleasant to use for extended periods. Are you suggesting I would have the same experience with a higher priced polisher as well? Because if so that would save me a bunch of money! lol

[Mantilgh]

I have a Duetto and really like it.

It's seems very smooth and powerful to me.

But the only other DA I have is a HF that I use for machine claying (the Duetto does not run slow enough for this) and for polishing smaller areas with a 3" backing plate.

I hear the 15mm Rupes and BOSS machines are nice too.

If you do get another polisher, pick up the BOSS 3" backing plate for your PC.

[dennis hiip]

http://www.autogeek.net/bupo.html

[dlc95]

I mean, it does make my arms pretty sore after a while and my ears start to ring if I don't wear earplugs or headphones. It also doesn't have any sort of integrated handle or built in trigger like most of the other polishers out there. I just can't help but think that I could find a unit that is more pleasant to use for extended periods. Are you suggesting I would have the same experience with a higher priced polisher as well? Because if so that would save me a bunch of money! lol

What pads are you using with the 7424xp?

[986DTM]

I have LC flats and ccs but I mostly use the flat pads.

[kevinmfitz]

I also upgraded from a Porter Cable and bought a Rupes Bigfoot LHR15ES last summer. It has been a great machine. The ergonomics are amazing and it is comfortable to use.
It took a little while to get used to it. I bought some Lake county 5 in pads and they work well. Recently I bought some Rupes pads on a sale and have found out
they work better. You will be very happy if you choose a Rupes product.

[idriveblackcars]

I still own love and use my PC! Even though I bought 2 Rupes polishes. Maybe if I were a pro detailer doing car after car I would have tossed out the PC. But it's so damn versitile. I only use LC flat pads with it and Megs MF cutting pads.

I do however prefer the Bigfoot for longer jobs for obvious reasons.

[986DTM]

Whats the consensus on something more budget friendly like the MT300 or 10FX? Worthwhile upgrade from the PC or not?

For reference, I do around 2 or 3 cars a week.

[custmsprty]

Whats the consensus on something more budget friendly like the MT300 or 10FX? Worthwhile upgrade from the PC or not?

For reference, I do around 2 or 3 cars a week.

No, stick with the PC unless you go large throw.

[Eldorado2k]

For reference, I do around 2 or 3 cars a week.

Dude, what are you waiting for? Invest in either of the 15/21mm long throw machines... Those 2-3 jobs will have it more than paid in full by the end of the week!

And don't forget to pick up a 3" backing plate and some nice 3" pads to go with it so you can turn your PC into a full time 3" polisher to accompany your new larger upgrade.

You're working too hard not only with that machine, but with those tiny pads. [5" pads]