Did I make a mistake buying the PC 7424XP?

[movingforward]

I'm a newbie who is wants to get into detailing because my girlfriend just bought a new car and I would like to do what I can to protect and maintain it's new finish while also putting an end to neglecting the paint on my own vehicle. I bought the Porter Cable 7424XP for a $100 based on the advice I read from initial Google searches on car care. I also bought the 5" backplate and 6 pads from ebay for ~$60 (coincidentally from autogeek's ebay account). But after discovering this forum, I am wondering if I should have gone for the GG6 instead for $140. With the included backplate, of course, it is more like a $30 difference.

[HateSwirls]

I don't think you made a mistake.
I've had mine for two years I guess and not once did I have a problem.
But if you want to get the most out of your PC use 5 inch pads, you'll get better results faster.

I also bought the GG6 a few months ago and died yesterday but I have a lifetime warrant so Griot's will take care of me.
Does it correct faster than the PC?, yes, will it out last the GG6 yes, IMO anyway.

You have a great tool in that PC of yours so enjoy it
Many, many people own the PC and happy with them, I know I love mine.
I still use it even today.
Can't tell you how many cars I've corrected with my PC but it's a lot

[wlshephard]

I think the pc is the best tool to start with. It is the least dangerous and it has the shortest learning curve. Once you master the pc and your techniques you can always move up to a more powerful machine. The pc will get the job done and will serve you well for a long time. I also recommend going with the 5 inch pads. Good luck!

[The Guz]

If you are just maintaining your own cars the PC is good enough.

[tpr1634]

My first polisher was 7424 then I added the flex, I probably use the porter cable more

[twitch77]

You made an excellent choice. The PC is a great tool.

Given the plethora of pad and polish choices these days you'll be able to do a lot (of correction) with it if needed. The Meguiar's MF system is one that comes to mind which I've personally used with my PC and had great success.

You shouldn't have any buyers remorse. This tool, especially for a beginner, will be more than enough to get you wonderful results.

[swanicyouth]

Yes, the GG 6 is better. However, the PC is very useable and can get the job done.

[MarkD51]

Sorry to butt in folks, but maybe there needs to be a correction on a couple of recommendations to the OP here.

Two have suggested the five (5") Pads, where I think you actually meant to say five and a half inch (5.5") Pads.

The 5.5" Flat Thin LC Pads are the general recommendation for use with the 5" LC Packing Plate. Using a 5" Pad with a 5" Backing Plate gives little to no safe overhang of the Pad in relation to the Backing Plate.

Correct?
Mark

[MarkD51]

To follow up, as others have said and I agree, I don't think you've made any mistake in the purchase of the PC Machine.

The price you paid sounds very good, and it should give you years of good service if properly used, and cared for.

While the GG6 is said to be a more powerful tool, I have seemed to notice as well, a greater said rate of reported failure, and a seeming need for quite a few users to return these machines for replacement.

Sure, the GG Warrantee is basically unbeatable, but I myself would rather forego such inconveniences if such a tool is not that reliable.
Mark

[spiralout462]

I agree with MarkD51. Everyone raves about the lifetime warranty of the Griot's machine. The way I see it I would rather have a reliable polisher from a well known name brand than have to worry about using a warranty. I have been a happy Porter Cable 7424xp owner for a year and a half. I only use it maybe 4 times a year (on vehicles). It suites my needs perfectly!