Backing plates?

[PoopMobile]

Which would be the safer and easier backing plate to use for someone who has never used a buffer before? Dual Action Flex or Hook & Loop?

[BobbyG]

Which would be the safer and easier backing plate to use for someone who has never used a buffer before? Dual Action Flex or Hook & Loop?

Hook & Loop backing plates work on the same principle whether the Flex 3401 or Porter Cable 7424. When you say safer and easier what are your concerns?....

[PoopMobile]

I know they're pretty idiot proof but my concern is damage and best performance for a beginner...porter cable 7424

[BobbyG]

I know they're pretty idiot proof but my concern is damage and best performance for a beginner...porter cable 7424

Ahhh, OK.

This is what I use on mine and they work really well!

Plate - lake country 5 inch backing plate, 5 inch backin plate, 5 inch hook and loop backing plate

Pads - Lake Country 5 1/2 x 7/8 inch Beveled Edge Pads 6 Pack, foam pad kit, build a kit, buffing pads, curved edge pads

[tuscarora dave]

Hook and loop is pretty much the only option. Just make sure the backing plate is not larger than the pads that you are using and all will be OK concerning damage from a backing plate contacting the paint.

[PoopMobile]

I'm looking at 2 different packages to purchase the porter cable. 1 comes with a 5" dual flex and the other a 5" hook & loop. They both come with 6.5 pads. Just was wondering which would be better for a beginner.

[kimtyson]

Pretty sure the Flex, which is a machine, uses a special backing plate. So, if you are getting the PC7424, then you should not get a flex plate. It won't work. I have a PC and use the same plate that BobbyG posted. Works perfectly. The smaller 5.5 inch pads are easier to use for us beginners, too.

[navseawelder1]

6" backing pad and 7.5" Lake Country Pads. Leaves you a safety zone.
I have a PC 7424XP and A 6", 5", and 3.5" backing pads. I also have 7.5", 6.5", and 4" LC pads. All hook & loop.

[dad07]

I would recommend a pc kit.....but when you order I would call AG and see if they trade out the 6.5 for 5.5 pads.

Or you can put something together yourself.

[BobbyG]

6" backing pad and 7.5" Lake Country Pads. Leaves you a safety zone.

I don't think this combination would work well on a Porter Cable 7424 polisher, it's much too large for a small machine...