Looking for a buffer/polisher

[72 Bluz]

What's the difference between a regular buffer and an orbital buffer? Thanks.

Bill

 

[78SilvAnniv]

I think...

...the regular buffer spins around the center pivot point, and an orbital moves in a smaller circular motion with no spinning. The former will create more speed>friction>heat, than the orbital, which mostly moves up/down/side-to-side in a circular pattern.

I've only used an orbital sander for furniture making processes, never used a buffer of any type.
Sil

 

[72 Bluz]

Thanks, Silver. My nephew works at a local body shop and he is going to help me buff some scratches out of Xena 2 weekends from now. We'll probably use the regular buffer for the compound and an orbital for the glaze polish. I'm glad he knows what he's doing. I've never used a buffer before, but I'm about to learn.

Bill

 

[Torchy2000]

I use an Orbital style. They're about $30-50 at Walmart. However, I've got three brand new ones (of varying manuf., sizes) I picked up at yard sales for about $5ea. Seems everyone gets these marvels (as gifts, I guess) and never use them.

:eek {Dream Sequence}... Dad opening his present, showing the Black & Decker to all, declaring "I've ALWAYS wanted one of these!!!". Then proceeds to the "Happy Shine" to get the Presidential Wash w/ New Car scent for $ 22.95 w/ fill-up {end Dream Sequence}

- I kid you not, about every other yard sale has 'em!

My $0.02 US... as you were...

R

 

[Tanzanite3]

Just Maybe

Once the owners get a perfect finish on their paint .. they learn about the Z product and realize that they no longer need to use the swirly whirly things any more!!

 

[Dad]

Buffing/polishing 101.

The buffer has a straight spindle that runs in the 2,000 RPM range. Great for cutting down a rough paint job, over spray or in some cases oxidation if it's not to bad. Easy to cut through the color coat or burn off an edge.

The random orbital has a small throw, about .313, on the end of it's spindle and a second bearing on the bonnet and the small crank that this creates. In other words you can spin the bonnet and not turn the motor. If you trigger the orbital the bonnet will not rotate if you have enough pressure on the bonnet. It will jump like crazy though. As you release that pressure you will get rotation of the whole assembly both axially and radial. When you release the trigger the bonnet will coast to a stop long after the spindle stops. Smaller bearing, less friction surface is the reason.

The surface will not get hot as quick because you can control the amount of rotation and orbits it generates. It also leaves very short arcs rather that the swirl marks from a buffer that I'm sure you've all seen.

Some side notes, it will wind your watch very tight, so take it off. You also need to take off your rings and belt buckle and wear sweats not Levies. The wool bonnets can and do catch rings and watches. The newer foam, dimpled bonnets are the best ever. Run the cord up you arm and over your shoulder, this lessens the chance of winding it up in the bonnet. It also keeps it from dragging on the top of the fenders when you do the hood and trunk. Even with an orbital the bonnet should always be leaving the edge/corner, not coming to it. This buffing/polishing compound is high grade mud, so wear glasses or goggles.

Don’t be afraid to wash it with lots of water a couple of times before you start using a dry rag to polish it, the compound will come back to haunt you when you least need the aggravation. Some of the polishing compounds won’t give you any problems, but why take a chance?

 

[jerrys96lt4]

Great tips Dad, Some other things to be careful around are windshield wiper arms theyll grab the buffing pad and hurl the buffer into the windshield and sometimes damage the glass. Id be careful around emblems. old potmetal emblemswill break off. After 16 years in a bodyshop nothing surprises you.

 

[72 Bluz]

Thanks for the input

Ended up getting a Ryobi 10" orbital.

Bill