Has anyone used the chicago electric rotary from harbor freight? - Page 2

Anomaly · 05-20-08, 12:51

Just picked one of these up from my local HF store. I intend to use it on a boat detail I have lined up this weekend for spot work.

Glad I read this thread before getting to work and running into some problems.

D&D Auto Detail · 05-20-08, 02:45

I sent my Metabo in on Saturday because it is leaking oil. On Monday I broke out the Chicago rotary and messed with it on an old hood I have. I compounded the hood using wool and PG. Stopped and moved on to a fender on my car only using SIP and orange, then blue w/ 106. The machine fried up and started smoking while polishing with the 106. I figured the Chicago would make a good enough back up rotary. So much for that.

I originally bought the Chicago to learn on, then like I said it would be a back up. My advice, even if you're just starting out, go ahead and buy a quality machine. Im not sure Id buy the Metabo again. Id probably go with the DeWalt or something similar.

ptaylor_9849 · 05-21-08, 02:03

Maybe these machines are hit or miss. I practiced with mine for months without any trouble other than the inconsistent rpm's. I still have mine and it works great.

Patrick

Gemini13 · 05-21-08, 06:35

Quote:

Originally Posted by D&D Auto Detail

I sent my Metabo in on Saturday because it is leaking oil. On Monday I broke out the Chicago rotary and messed with it on an old hood I have. I compounded the hood using wool and PG. Stopped and moved on to a fender on my car only using SIP and orange, then blue w/ 106. The machine fried up and started smoking while polishing with the 106. I figured the Chicago would make a good enough back up rotary. So much for that.

I originally bought the Chicago to learn on, then like I said it would be a back up. My advice, even if you're just starting out, go ahead and buy a quality machine. Im not sure Id buy the Metabo again. Id probably go with the DeWalt or something similar.

Sounds like my experience with it. I wound up purchasing a Vector rotary from Pepboys and its worked fantastic. IMO its a much better built tool.