To PC or not to PC - please advise

gswearengin · 09-30-09, 10:57

Hello detailing experts!

So, I had fully decided to get a PC7424XP, but it looks like being overwhelmed and not able to make a quick decision may actually work in my favor. Here is a quick overview of my story:

I currently have a 2007 VW GTI in "black magic pearl." The paint is in good shape, but does have its share of swirls and paint chips (I bought it used). I was all set to correct the paint as much as possible with the 7424XP and the M105/205 combo. HOWEVER, I have now all but decided to trade the car in on a new one.

If I do this, the next car will be brand new, white, and I will try to avoid having the dealer detail it. I.e. the paint will be in much better shape, and will also be a much more forgiving color. I will still protect the paint and be as careful as possible, but I'm not sure if I will really have much use for a DA polisher (certainly not for a while, at least).

Also, as much as I would still like to go to town on the current car, I seriously doubt it would make much, if any, difference in the trade-in value, and the amount of effort involved will probably not be worth it.

Just wondering what you guys think?

Thanks,

Gary

mystic04 · 09-30-09, 11:21

It may make some difference on your trade in price but not a lot . Not for the amount of time you would spend on a VW that has rather hard clear, and being new to polishing that even more time spent. Keep what you have the Pc and meg's105/205 can be used down the line just keep from freezing over the winter bring
them inside.

gswearengin · 09-30-09, 11:35

I haven't even bought the XP/105/205 yet! So, there are cost savings of ~$200, as well. Just wondering if I will want it down the line, but I guess that is a decision a can make later.

Thank you,

Gary

yakky · 09-30-09, 11:51

If you like keeping your car clean, a PC is a must. I'd get it now, practice on the VW and then continue to use it on the new car. You will get swirls on your new car soon enough, no matter how hard you try.

KaPow · 09-30-09, 12:10

Get the new car... definitely!!

I would get the PC as well. It works really well in applying lots of different sealants with soft pads. It gives a little extra heat for bonding... which should give some extra protection and shine.

If you are happy that you can maintain the new finish with your washing and waxing routine, then there's no big pressure to buy the PC.

However, do get the new GTI !! DO IT! DO IT! LOL.... you can tell I'm a big VAG fan!

Cheers
KaPow!

mc2hill · 09-30-09, 12:41

For someone new to machine polishing I recommend a kit from Adam's Polishes. They have made it "puddin' simple": Use the orange product (Swirl and Haze Remover - most aggressive) on an orange pad (most aggressive), the white product (Fine Machine Polish) on the white pad, and to finish, the black product (Super Machine Wax - really a sealant) on the black pads.
When you get comfortable with the products, pads, and machine you can mix them up a little for different cut levels. After you're past the newbie stage, try other vendor's products and pads, and you'll already have a 6" backing plate.

Atlantic Euro · 10-04-09, 07:06

GlossHaus also has a turnkey kit. Kits like that are great for taking all the guesswork and what-if's out of the equation and letting you focus on results!

Accumulator · 10-05-09, 07:28

gswearengin- If you're trading the current car to the dealer, and it looks OK, then I'd agree that detailing it prior to trade-in will probably not sweeten your deal any. Could be good practice though, if you have the time (big "if").

If you're buying a white vehicle, I'd be concerned about rust-blooms from ferrous contamination ("rail dust", etc.). I'd take measures (too involved to post here, we've discussed this before in depth).

Much as I love polishers, and am tempted to say that if you can buy a new car you can buy a polisher

I don't think you really *need* one at this point. You can keep a new white car *VERY* nice by hand if you do things properly.

Don't let this site brainwash you into anything unnecessary; don't look for issues that you don't currently have because pretty soon you'll find some, even where they don't exist.

And FWIW, I'm not a big fan of "polisher kits" as I think most people would do better picking and choosing exactly what *they* really need for their specific situations.

JimmyCutlass · 10-05-09, 08:19

A DA and M105/M205 can really accomplish nearly any level of correction that you are looking to achieve. I can pretty much bet that you will find problem with your paint once you get it or shortly after (after a few washes). Keep your car in good shape from the beginning, keep it from being neglected it will never go down hill.

gswearengin · 10-05-09, 02:24

Thanks for all of the replies, guys! Quick update: it looks like the car I want will most likely not be showing up on our shores until early 2010. So, I am "stuck" with my current car for a little while (not such a bad place to be) and/or may try to sell it on my own. In either case, the paint will benefit from a good polish and I will benefit from not seeing swirls and paint chips anymore and hopefully learn a little bit along the way.

So, I pulled the trigger on the HD UNO PC7424XP deal. The price was right, the videos looked impressive, and the process sounds pretty simple. if that doesn't work out then I will consider going M105/205 with a full array of 5.5" pads.

I am also considering a dark grey car as well as white...if I go with white I do think I will be able to keep it tip-top, but it won't hurt to have the PCXP in my arsenal anyway.

Thanks,

Gary

Scottwax · 10-05-09, 03:20

Quote:

Originally Posted by yakky

If you like keeping your car clean, a PC is a must. I'd get it now, practice on the VW and then continue to use it on the new car. You will get swirls on your new car soon enough, no matter how hard you try.

Agreed. Plus claying, proper light polishing and a good wax or sealant can make a noticeable improvement in the appearance of even a brand new car.

AeroCleanse · 10-05-09, 03:33

Use it on your current car, if only to learn. Keep it because just because its new doesn't mean its going to be defect free.

If you get the new car, you probably need to wash / clay and even use that M205 on it right away. I've seen new Porsche's on the dealer lot that needed paint correction! If you haven't got the M205 yet, you should look at the HD line. I think there are some deals / kits that have all you need.