I did a search and didn't find any comparisons between car polishers. Does anybody have any experience with some of the other popular polishers? If so what would you guys recommend with costs taken into consideration.

 

http://autopia.org/forum/car-detailing/930...ghlight=festool

Hope it helps. I am about to start detailing and for what I am going to be doing I will most likely opt for the UDM.

 

really depends mostly on your background...
do you have experience already?

 

I would wait for the UDM Rev 2 coming out soon. Festool is my favorite but its about $440 and there is a backing plate issue for some.

If you want a rotary, I would go for the Metabo or Hitachi.

 

I'm just starting up. What do you recommend for a beginner?

 

A good tool for the begginer would be one of the orbital buffers like the UDM, PC, or Cyclo.

 

How does the UDM compare to the Cyclo? The UDM seems to be the clear winner when compared to the PC.

 

Problem with the UDM is the counterweight issue, which is currently being fixed (Which is why F-minus said wait for Version 2). I like mine alot..... and I don't have my counterweight fixed.

Cyclo has two polishers doesn't it? IIRC, people said they liked using the UDM/PC for smaller area's, because of the Cyclo's dual head's. You'd have to ask MikeyC or someone about that. Ubetit has a cyclo also, iirc.

 

The Cylco is heavier than the UDM, it needs 2 edge adapters, and you need to buy 2 pads of each color, its hard to maneuver, and it has only ONE setting.

But from what Ive heard its got a motor that never gives up. Other than that, Personally I think its an outdated tool.

 

Right now the Cyclo is my most used machine. It has less vibration and more power than the PC. Other than places like under the mirrors it can go just about anywhere. I don't think it is outdated.

My UDM vibrates badly so it's hard for me to compare it right now. WHen i hold the head it seems fine but the handle vibrates like crazy. I'd wait until the get it worked out.