Which Griot's "kit" is right for me for marine detailing?

[mikev]

So, hi. I'm Mike.

After lurking here for a LONG time (holy crap, I registered last August) I'm finally posting.

I decided to get into machine polishing when I bought a boat. It needs some help, and I read Mike's awesome thread polishing his orange boat.

After weighing the options and the various machines, I've made up my mind and will be going with the Griot's unit.

So, the big decision?

Do I want the Polisher + LC Pad kit (http://www.autogeek.net/random-orbital-polisher-kit.html)? I've read that gel coat on boats is tough enough to require wool, so this kit and a wool pad or two would be enough, and then purchase the actual compounds and polishes separately? The other options would be the Polisher + Sealant kit (http://www.autogeek.net/orbital-polisher-wax-kit.html), but that doesn't seem to have any marine compounds, nor does the Polish + Wax kit (http://www.autogeek.net/griots-random-orbital-buffer.html).

The last option for me would be to buy the machine by itself, and then look into pads and compounds separately without being in kit form.

(Alternatively, AG could go ahead and make a "marine" kit and I'd jump on that!)

Thanks!

[VIP Reflections]

great choice on the griots 6". Love that tool. as far as what package, just get the pads if you buying it for your boat. or just get the unit itself. either way you will be happy

[mikev]

problem being, I'm not entirely sure what pads would be appropriate for a boat

[Buckskincolt]

My suggestion is call Nick or Meghan at AG. I'll bet when you explain what you are doing they will make you a custom package with the Griots. AG is the best and they will do their best to accommodate your needs.

Maybe ask them to sub in the Griots for the PC in this kit Gel Coat Labs Porter Cable Light Oxidation Kit, Porter Cable 7424XP, boat polishing kit, marine polish (http://www.autogeek.net/gel-coat-labs-porter-cable-kit.html)? The Griots comes with a 6" backing plate but it's good to have the 6" and the 5", so I'd keep it for sure. I'm not sure what your boat needs and I'm sure you will want to polish more than just your boat once you own the Griots. but none of the Standard Griot's kits will be to good for what you describe.
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