Which Porter Cable should I get?
 

Would like a recommendation for a Porter Cable polisher and would appreciate a source to buy it from.

Also, can these machines double as a sander around the house?

I bought the PC 7424 from Coastal Tools - Link. $119 + shipping which is a reasonable price. I've seen used PC 7424's sell on eBay for up to $120.

Yes, the PC's are convertible from a polisher to a sander. The Coastal Tools page for the PC 7424 also has a link explaining the differences between the 7335, 7336, and 7424 models (same body and motor, different accessories).

Currently selling for that same price on Amazon.

That's a price drop. Amazon's price was $129 last month. Coastal also throws in a hook and loop backing plate for free.

Thanks!
 

Thanks!

:hijack:

Question for the detailing pros:

I keep reading how great the PC device is. I have an el cheapo MVP 10 in model that I haven't even used (forgot it was in the garage until today). Would I be stupid to use it?

http://us.st11.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.c...i_1895_2194063

You can also pick up a PC at Lowes for $109.

The 10" is, IMO, about worthless. (I do not mean that as a flame or slam, etc).
I had a Sears 10" and it was worthless for anything other than a huge, wastefull applicator.

They do not actually polish, just kinda bounce around on the paint plus the large 10" uses too much product.
The big drawback is that it uses those cheap bonnets instead of quality professional pads.

Just my honest opinion based on actual hands on...

Hope this helps:)

It helps me - I've had the same question... Thanks!

I have one of the big monster 2-handed buffers also. The problem with these buffers is the weight. It's an arm killer doing the sides of a vehicle, holding the buffer (i believe it's 8 lbs) out with extended arms. The PC 7424 is about 1/3 the weight, much smaller, and when you use it on the sides of a car, you're holding it upwards as opposed to outwards.

The Lowe's near my house had only the PC 7336 for $109 which is the same unit, but comes with a sander disc instead of the hook and loop backing pad and buffing pad that comes with the 7424. BTW - when you buy either unit, you'll still have to invest in some good buffing pads which can be quite expensive ($40-$80). Do your due diligence and shop around online to find the best deal. Here's 2 sources.

http://www.autopia-carcare.com
http://www.autogeek.net/

Wayne might have some items also or some recommended sources.

As requested:)
We currently have a special on professional pads for thePC.

The "6 Pack Special", $49.99
2 polishing pads
2 cutting pads
2 finishing pads