Any special items for Harbor Freight buffer?

**Hoytman** · 09-12-2011, 04:35 PM

I just aquired a buffer that is from Harbor Freight. I know they aren't the best, but they are cheap...especially to practice with. I borrowed it from my dad, who rarely buys a cheap tool except for this time.

I was wondering if I need to order any special items to fit it other than backing plates and pads? (Keep in mind these items may be put to use on a quality machine at a later date.)

I've got access to some older cars that no one cares about and will be able to get in some practice to hone my rotary buffer skills. Shouldn't be too hard since I'm descent with using just about any hand tool.

What speeds do you guys usually run? I'll be starting slow.

Most of what I've researched on this forum has been about using a DA because I didn't think I'd be able to get my hands on a rotary to practice with.

EDIT:
I do remember Mike Phillips talk about using a rotary and finishing with a DA.

**dad07** · 09-12-2011, 04:42 PM

You have answered your own questions! Bp/pads/start slow.........

**Hoytman** · 09-12-2011, 04:48 PM

Well...okay. I wasn't sure if any special adapters/extensions may be needed or not. Thanks for the input.

**dad07** · 09-12-2011, 05:08 PM

Originally Posted by Hoytman

Well...okay. I wasn't sure if any special adapters/extensions may be needed or not. Thanks for the input.

Sorry didn't mean to make it sound short......but the arbor size on the HF models are the standard....with the name brands....I have one it works good to learn on...and it has a variable speed adjustment.

Just get some good pads and BP to go with it and your on your way!

**C. Charles Hahn** · 09-12-2011, 05:56 PM

Bill, do you have/have you bought a DA yet?

**Hoytman** · 09-12-2011, 06:14 PM

Originally Posted by dad07

Sorry didn't mean to make it sound short......but the arbor size on the HF models are the standard....with the name brands....I have one it works good to learn on...and it has a variable speed adjustment.

Just get some good pads and BP to go with it and your on your way!

No problem, but I didn't take it as you being short with me. I just meant great, I answered my own question ha ha.

Originally Posted by Shiny Lil Detlr

Bill, do you have/have you bought a DA yet?

No. I was leaning heavily towards the Meg's unit though.

I actually tried to place an order at the last minute on the 10% off sale but noticed it wasn't available at the time and I didn't know if I could get a rain check on it or not. I immediately pm'd personnel at AG to inquire, although it was 4-5 minutes after the sale was over. Got a pm saying they wouldn't be available for sometime, but no info was offered saying I could have placed the order anyway.

**C. Charles Hahn** · 09-12-2011, 06:28 PM

Originally Posted by Hoytman

No. I was leaning heavily towards the Meg's unit though.

I actually tried to place an order at the last minute on the 10% off sale but noticed it wasn't available at the time and I didn't know if I could get a rain check on it or not. I immediately pm'd personnel at AG to inquire, although it was 4-5 minutes after the sale was over. Got a pm saying they wouldn't be available for sometime, but no info was offered saying I could have placed the order anyway.

You have a PM.