How to choose my first DA buffer

[danh52]

I have only used a rotary buffer is the past. I learned back in the day when it was the only choice. I am not a pro detailer but have to detail my 33' RV, moderate oxidation, and am thinking it might be time to try one of the "new fangle" DA buffers. Which would be the best machine to move to from a rotary buffer? I would also use this machine on my corvette, MINI Cooper and pickup so a wide range of vehicle sizes. I'd also like to keep the cost down but I'm ok with investing in a quality tool. If I get a new DA machine should I sell my Makita rotary or keep it and why?

Thanks

[cleanmycorolla]

The Flex

[briarpatch]

Griots 6" Random Orbital...known affectionately as the GG6. Plenty of power, good price point, lifetime warranty. Keep your rotary, you never know when you will need it

[custmsprty]

The Griots G21 System

[Mike Phillips]

Since this is our first post to our forum...

Welcome to AutogeekOnline!

I have only used a rotary buffer is the past. I learned back in the day when it was the only choice.

Me too. Still have my original Makita sitting on the shelf here in my office with my antique wax collection.

I am not a pro detailer but have to detail my 33' RV, moderate oxidation

BOOM! --> right there --> 33' RV with moderate oxidation.

You definitely want a dual action polisher so you don't leave holograms in the finish of your RV.

and am thinking it might be time to try one of the "new fangle" DA buffers.

Which would be the best machine to move to from a rotary buffer? I would also use this machine on my corvette, MINI Cooper and pickup so a wide range of vehicle sizes.

I'd also like to keep the cost down but I'm ok with investing in a quality tool.

The FLEX 3401 is the most powerful orbital polisher on the market since it's gear-driven but because it's gear-driven it also requires more muscle to control and use as compared to a free spinning orbital polisher. Just want to point that out.

If you're not in a hurry the a Griot's Garage 6" dual action polisher could and would tackle all of your projects. If you're in a hurry to get the RV buffed out then the FLEX 3401 would be my choice along with a foam polishing pad and a quality one-step cleaner/wax.

If I get a new DA machine should I sell my Makita rotary or keep it and why?

Thanks

If you don't ever plan on doing any major correction work then you could sell it because a quality dual action polisher can tackle everything you listed without the risk of holograms or burning through the paint.

[Mike Phillips]

The Griots G21 System

This would also be a good choice especially for the large flat panels of a motorhome.

[Mike Phillips]

Before you buff out the RV read through this article...


How to choose and use a one-step cleaner/wax by Mike Phillips


And this article,

How many pads do I need to buff out my car?

[custmsprty]

This would also be a good choice especially for the large flat panels of a motorhome.

Yeah, 21mm throw and 6.5" pads and they have an excellent system approach to polishing and finishing, as does Rupes.

[dlc95]

That big a piece to polish, with oxidation, Flex 3401.

That's one of the places where that machine excelled for me - oxidation.

[Jaretr1]

My Vote would be for the Rupes LHR21!