Should I chance using a rotary

[TP143]

Hi all,

My car is in dire need of a buff job after years of brush washing. I figured I would do it myself since I enjoy hands on projects but I have never attempted this kind of project. So, I have been saving for a flex 3401 for a few months after reading how good the machine is for unexperienced detailers. Today a local posted a makita 9227c rotary in the paper for cheap and I thought I would check here before I do something stupid. Considering I have never done this type of work would you steer me away from the rotary or say give it a shot? I would be wiling to pick up a scrap piece and practice. I guess my questions is how easy is it to make a costly mistake with a rotary verse DA and if it is significant, I will definitely go the DA route.

Thanks all!

[Agfan]

It is very easy to make a mistake with a rotary. Especially if you never used one before. I always tell new guys to start with a orbital. It reduces chance of swirls and buring paint. Although a rotary would give best results.

[Kaban]

practice on a junk panel... it's not rocket science.

[alko]

I took a chance and I LOVE my Flex PE14-2. I've already used it on my dad's Chrysler 300C and it was so awesome to work with. I can't comment on the Makita, but from what I understand Makita rotary's are synonymous with auto detailers. I still plan on getting a scrap panel and intentionally burning a panel to see how much it takes. I think with any polisher or detailing tool, common steps and the right knowledge can lead to success. Doesn't hurt to check it out.

[Setec Astronomy]

Soft, small pad and low RPM's. Tape high spots to be sure. Keep the polisher moving don't dwell--good luck.

[Mike Phillips]

Soft, small pad and low RPM's. Tape high spots to be sure. Keep the polisher moving don't dwell--good luck.

Agree.

If it's a good price, Makita makes a great RB

Take your time, use small pads and get a flexible backing plate and practice with something like Menzerna SF 4500

Menzerna - New Names and Product Numbers (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/products-guides/47067-menzerna-new-names-product-numbers.html)


Trend: Flexible Backing Plates for Rotary Buffers (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/wool-foam-buffing-pads/33907-trend-flexible-backing-plates-rotary-buffers.html)


Hologram Free with a Rotary Buffer (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/auto-detailing-101/43684-hologram-free-rotary-buffer.html)


Lots of info on using a rotary buffer here,

New Flex PE14 - How to use ONLY a rotary buffer to finish out hologram free? (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/circular-polishers-rotary-polishers-high-speed-polisher/33938-new-flex-pe14-how-use-only-rotary-buffer-finish-out-hologram-free.html)



New video with tips here,

Video: Tips for using a Rotary Buffer and the Flex 3401 on vertical panels (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/show-car-garage-how-videos/48334-video-tips-using-rotary-buffer-flex-3401-vertical-panels.html)



:xyxthumbs:

[Danube]

Soft, small pad and low RPM's. Tape high spots to be sure. Keep the polisher moving don't dwell--good luck.


+1 here.

[poweraid]

the only chance I see is to learn, and that's the same shoes I'm in . pe-14 ready to rock .

[TP143]

I think I will purchase the Makita and make some practice rounds with a scrap piece. As for product, I am a little confused with what to use. Above Mike suggests using the SF 4500 product which is a finishing product. Do I need to first start with a swirl remover and light cutting pad or can I go straight to the finishing product with a non-abrasive pad? My swirls cannot be felt so they arent deep, they are just significant in number. Also, is it recommended to apply sealant with a rotary or should I apply by hand?