Rotary vs DA vs Flex3401

[vuldub]

I have owned the DA portercable 7424 (non XP) model for several years and used it for light polishing and waxing. Recently I tackled a project on my 52 jeep and needed more power, so I bought a Mikita 9237C rotary. I used denim and velvet Carpro pads and briefly tried wool pads with it. Then on a whim, with some bonus money in my pocket, I bought the Flex3401 and all I can say is WOW. I'm thinking the portercable DA will get relegated to 4" pads and waxing jobs mostly as it has been displaced by the Flex3401 DA.

But here's my question: Will I ever need or want to use the Mikita rotary??

[Dr_Pain]

The rotary will be your friend on heavy 2 steps (rotary and finish with the 3401), or on gelcoat, but having a 3401 will make you think twice about having a rotary for sure.

Rotary is much faster first step on a true 2 step compound/polish. You can do the same with the 3401 with the forced rotation but it will take a while longer.

[hernandez.art13]

I sanded my hood with 3000 (it was repainted)

I then buffed out the sanding marks with 3000 using my Rupes 21, Meguiars MF Cutting pad and M100.

Looked good, until I parked under street lights.

I took my car over to Meguiars garage and asked Mike Stoops if I could park my car inside to exam what I missed. Well looks like I had missed a few more than I thought.

So I just busted out there Dewalt, Burgundy wool pad and M100, buffed the whole hood again.

Polished with M205 and there G110v2 .

And I am now happy with the way it looks.

So I'd say if your going to be doing a lot of sanding and buffing then yes keep the rotary. (I'm sure there are other reasons for others, but that was just one idea that popped in my head)

[vuldub]

So I'd say if your going to be doing a lot of sanding and buffing then yes keep the rotary.

That's good advice - I'm sanding right now and polishing with the 3401, so maybe I will be trying the wool in the rotary yet....

[VISITOR]

the rotary has it's place just like any other tool. the flex 3401 though, is a very capable machine and can just about do it all. it's crazy how car polishers and products have evolved these days and it seems to keep going. you never know what will come out next, very exciting indeed!