Ok, so I did a quick wash of the car yesterday just to get the salt and crap off (yeah, I know I wish it didnt have to be my daily driver ). But anyway, every time I wash I see the little swirl marks and it makes me a little sad.

So I think the time has come to get a porter cable and all that stuff and learn to take care of my car. What do I need to get started? I know I need a porter cable (I've seen two model numbers mentioned over the time I've been here, which do I need?), I know I need pads (what do I need to get started?), and the products (is there a kit from Sonus or something?). If someone could compile a list for the first timer that would be great. Links are a plus

Thanks.

 

Autogeek has quite a few buffer/pads/polish kits available.

http://autogeek.net/po.html

I'm not sure what your budget is like, but that kit is very comprehensive, and may probably be more than what you need. As for polishes, I would look into Optimum's line of polishes for its versatility, ease of use, and ability to cut and finish out well.

Good luck!

 

The pad kit looks like a good start. Can anyone make a more complete list of the products I'd need to get started? I want to take out swirl marks...of course

 

What do you currently have in your arsenal?

This is very time consuming to make a custom list, but here's my 2 minute stab at it.

- PC 7424
- Edge 2k pad kit (Yellow-heavy cutting/ green- medium cut/ orange- mild cut/ blue-polishing/ white-finishing_
- Edge 2k Dual-orbital adaptor
- Assorted MF's.
- Optimum Hyper Compound
- " " Compound
- " " Polish
- " " Poli-seal


That's a list of everything that you'll need to remove swirls, and heavy defects and get a bit of protection from Poli-seal.

Waxes/sealants, glass, tires, wheels, interior dressing, all purpose cleaners, carpet cleaners: Choose your own.


Cheers, and good luck!
If you have anymore product questions, please search first here, and on autopia, and if you have any further questions, ask away!

--Gabe

 

Sounds good. That looks like a list that will do what I need. Thanks.

 

if you are just after light swirls all you really need is a swirl remover and the two most basic pads (one with no cutting; and one with mild cutting)-
have to say that i really do love the edge pads, so another vote there!

i always suggest that folks learn the machine either on another car or by doing wax & removal with the machine. if you want to use the machine for protectants, you would want to add a lambswool pad with microfiber bonnets to the list.

 

So you're saying I should just trying waxing with it first?

 

Look here:

http://bettercarcare.com/portercableuse.html

 

yes- that will give you the "feel" for the machine... you can get used to handling it without having to worry as much about technique.

the other choice is to do a swirl removal on a beater car first. i did both many years ago when i learned- i did the wax on my car and then a swirl removal on a beater before i went for a car that was more important!

 

No beater handy. I was thinking of trying the trunk lid first since that would be cheaper to replace/repaint then a fender.