I'm looking for a buffer for my 2008. I'll be using it for minor swirl removal. Should i be looking at RPM or OPM?

Thanks
Bob

 

Flex 3401 hands down for DIY minor stuff, if you can swing the price, made in Germany. I owned a PC before and this is much smoother and stronger but still just as safe. IMHO.

 

If I were to guess, RPM would deal more with a rotary, while OPM would be more with a random orbital or a DA. Something like the Flex would be something that would list both?

Either way, I'd just look for something like the Porter Cable 7424, or a Meguiar's G110 for corrective work. What's your budget?

EDIT:
Just noticed BayouSupercrew's post. I pretty much agree, though you may still want to get a PC first to get the gist of things. It'll do corrective work just fine, just the Flex is faster.

 

If you can afford the Flex then get it first. It is awesome!!!! I owned a DA first but needed/wanted something with more power but still be safe. I bought the Flex and it is great. I am keeping the DA for smaller areas.

Kevin

 

What type of DA do you have?

 

I was hoping to get something for less than $100 since i'll probably only use it once in a great while. Once the swirls are out then I wouldn't need it right?

Whats wrong with this... http://www.amazon.com/Tool-Group-994...=pd_sbs_auto_4

Wouldn't this remove minor swirls?

Thanks
Bob

 

No. It doesn't have enough power. I'd get a PC 7424.

 

A random orbital is only good for applying wax. It's almost useless for any kind of correction. A rotary is a workhorse that can destroy your finish if used improperly. A DA or a Flex is the best of both worlds, with the Flex having more power for correction and the DA being safer in the hands of a novice.

 

I have the G100 with lifetime warranty!

Kevin

 

This explains it very well. So I guess I'm looking for a DA. Is there one that is around $50-60?

Thanks
Bob

 

You might be able to find a used one for that price but then you have to buy the backing plate, pads, polishes, etc......

There are a few places that carry kits:
http://www.autodetailingsolutions.net/g110-kit-1.html
http://autogeek.net/meguiars-car-kits.html

Kevin

 

These are a great alternative..

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=90820

 

Thats a rotory and very dangerous in the hands of someone that has never used one. I have one and I am very leary about using it on a vehicle with out a little pratice on a junk hood first.

 

Definitely. Just throwing out all the options for being cost-effective.

 

FYI the lifetime warranty replaces it w/ a G110 now and from there you only get the 1 year warranty that comes with the G110.