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Good cheap random orbital?

Messages
152
Likes
146
Location
Buffalo, NY
#3
i do just have to chime in.
"Good" and "cheap" never go together well.
If you're going to use it often, or want consistent results, buy a quality tool that will last.
 


Messages
350
Likes
116
Location
Austin
#4
I disagree. Some things are good AND cheap. Simple.

But... there is always a more expensive option. For everything.

For the HF DA in particular, I have used it with satisfactory results, but Im not really entering my car into a show, nor do I have the eye to discern the minute differences. I just want a nice level layer of wax to protect my paint. I have also used it to bring aluminum panels to a mirror polish with zero swirls.

YMMV, but its one helluva deal
 


OP
D

DAPR

Member
Messages
223
Likes
53
Location
Charlottesville
Thread Starter #5
I disagree. Some things are good AND cheap. Simple.

But... there is always a more expensive option. For everything.

For the HF DA in particular, I have used it with satisfactory results, but Im not really entering my car into a show, nor do I have the eye to discern the minute differences. I just want a nice level layer of wax to protect my paint. I have also used it to bring aluminum panels to a mirror polish with zero swirls.

YMMV, but its one helluva deal
Exactly what I wanted to hear. Sometimes there are hidden values! Looks like it would just need a quality backing plate and I'd be good to go!
 


V_2

Active member
Messages
504
Likes
166
Location
Murfreesboro
#6
HF polisher, DA sander are just fine, as are their el cheapo HVLP guns for laying down primer.

Proper prep, technique, and patience are always key.
 


KnockOff

1000 Post Club
Messages
1,348
Likes
450
Location
Menifee
#7
The porter cable copy at hf is not bad at all for the money. They also have pads and a few cutting waxes there also. Remember pol clay before you wax! Not that crapy lil mothers bar either. I myself use clay magic.

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
 


Messages
470
Likes
148
Location
Mount Dora
#8
Another +1 for the HF DA, have one I've been using for about 4 years on about 10 or so cars with no issues. The only "mods" I've done to it are repack with better grease, a new backing plate and longer cord.
 


Messages
67
Likes
50
Location
Weyauwega
#9
Been doing part time body work 40 years. Best USA brands are Viking, National Detroit, or Hutchins. Still using ones I bought in the early 80s. Professionals usually steer clear of the cheap ones.
 


anticon

Active member
Messages
602
Likes
525
Location
Sherwood
#10
I got the harbor freight one and a different pad, but I couldnt get it apart to add grease. I think the newer model doesnt come apart the same way as the older one.
 


XanRules

Active member
Messages
527
Likes
239
Location
Portland
#11
Another vote for the HF. There's a mod for changing out the grease and a backing plate mod (I don't remember more details, I just remember reading about them when I bought mine) and it's totally fine for the hobbyist just doing their own car every so often. Is it as good as budget standbys like the PC7424XP? No, but it's like $40 on sale.

Get a good kit of foam pads and polishes from autogeek or autopia and you'll be all set.
 


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