Random Orbit
 

Ok. Someone give me the insight on this equipment. In the past, when my detail ability was novice level I would use an orbital polisher on my vehicles. I then switched exclusively to Zaino and have hand waxed ever since. My new to me Imola Red 4.8is arrived two weeks ago and the paint condition is acceptable, but the paint swirls are worse than my old Carbon Black 4.4i. I'd like to take my detailing to a new level and try working the clearcoat with tools rather than products. Thoughts?

I would go with the Flex XC3401 a nicer unit made in Germany, give you quicker and better results than a PC. It's going to make you a better detailer :)

Use that with some good Lake Country CCS pads and some Menzerna Polishes and your 4.8 will look amazing!

Three questions for you: What are the benefits over the PC? I see this has a velcro backing. Which pads do you recommend, entire pad kit or just select ones? Lastly, what is the lifespan of the pads?

The biggest benefit of using a rotary over the a PC is that the rotary will be a lot faster and will give you better results, period. The PC is designed for the novice so it is safe for all skill levels and it is near impossible to burn paint. The problem with that is you are unable to work the clear coat like you would with a rotary. As long as you are careful and practice, you should be just fine with a rotary. As for tools of the trade I would go with what Phil recommends as it has proven nothing but great results for me. The only difference is that i use the edge 2000 double sided pads for my metabo and CCS pads for my mikita. As long as you take care of your pads they should last a long time for the average DIYer. Good luck and hope to see some pics of your freshly detailed X.

What are the benefits over the PC?

Well its faster/more effective then polishing by hand.
At this point though I would recommend a Flex XC3401VR its faster and much better than the PC. (has more power to boot)

I see this has a velcro backing. Which pads do you recommend, entire pad kit or just select ones?
Lake Country CCS pads (depends on which polishes you need to use on your car/cars)

Lastly, what is the lifespan of the pads? 20-30 cars really depends on how you use them and care for them.

Thanks guys. I'm not officially sold on the Flex over the Porter Cable yet. The price differential is quite large and I'm unsure if my level of ability warrants the extra cash.

If one (Phil) were to recommend a package of pads, polish and Porter Cable. What would that entail?

5.5 inch CCS pads

PC kit
Einszett Polish/Wax kit

Or Menzerna Starter Kit

LMK what exactly you might need or if you have any questions.