I guess I will give the Makita a try.

On a side note, anything to worry about besides keeping the damn thing moving constantly?

 

One more thing before I make the plunge....I would like to use 4" pads rather than the 6"+, would I benefit from getting a smaller buffer or is the Makita still my answer?

 

You'll probably want both to be honest. The 6 inch pads do a lot more work. I prefer the larger pads but I've done this a while. My wool pads are 10 inches.

 

For my rotaries (including the Makita) I use a quick disconnect so I can swap between my backing plates. I use 3" pads for small areas and delicate work (like carbon fiber wings) and use 6" pads for the body panels.

I dont think you would want to use a 4" pad for everything. It will take a lot of extra work.

With anything else to worry about, mainly just keep the device moving. Not fast.. you can be slower. Just let it be a fluid movement when working the panels. Also, only turn it on and off when its on the panels. Rotaries will sling like crazy if your not careful

 

Good thread, was wondering the differences.