Do I need a PC?

imported_SHICKS

New member
Hello-



I would like to take my detailing to the next level. The paint on my car is Steel metallic gray about 4 years old. Swirls don't seem to show, and the paint is in pretty good conditon for a daily driver. Right now I am only using AIO and KSG with Eagle one QD by hand.



I seem pretty happy with the results, but wondering if a PC will really make much of a difference in the end. I have a couple of small scratches that could use some polish as well some very localized etching spots.



Goals:



Deeper glossier shine with fewer blemishes and ease of application.



Please suggest polishes for a noob with non oxidized paint that are easy to learn without harming the paint.



I also have a 2002 Jade Green 4Runner that could benefit from a PC.



Thanks,

Steve
 
From personal experience, I think you'll get results with the pc that you would be hard pressed to achieve by hand. You'll be pleasantly surprised by it.



As far as polishes that are easy to use 1Z MP and Poorboys SSR1 are two good ones, but then so is AIO if you have no marring to remove. Since it's your daily driver I would think you probably do have some marring that's hard to see because of your paint color.
 
jeff5614 said:
From personal experience, I think you'll get results with the pc that you would be hard pressed to achieve by hand. You'll be pleasantly surprised by it.



As far as polishes that are easy to use 1Z MP and Poorboys SSR1 are two good ones, but then so is AIO if you have no marring to remove. Since it's your daily driver I would think you probably do have some marring that's hard to see because of your paint color.



Thanks for your response.



I am leaning toward it.
 
SHICKS said:
Deeper glossier shine with fewer blemishes and ease of application.



a PC with the right polish and pad combo will do exactly that.



Please suggest polishes for a noob with non oxidized paint that are easy to learn without harming the paint.



i've found the PC quite easy to learn and very hard to damage the paint. well, maybe if you dropped it on the paint. :D as for polishes, it depends on the defects you're trying to remove, but i like Poorboy's SSR line of polishes as they are quite easy to work with - basically don't use too much and work it till it's gone, and they leave the finish really nice and wet looking.



but there are tons of good polishes out there. it might be a good idea to take a picture of your paint and ask what people would use and give you an idea what might work for your situation.



good luck and happy detailing! :wavey
 
The Lowes sale for the 7336sp is very enticing, what would you guys consider to be the total "soup-to-nuts" package we would need in terms of bonnets/pads/backing plate/etc.... I know the polishes and other consumables depend on the condition of the paint.



Thanks!
 
the PC is a dummy proof piece of equipment that would be a great addition to your collection. very very very easy to use and will do everything you want to do. as far as availability, price, and ease of use, the Poorboy's SSR polishes are a very good choice for you IMO. the Poorboy's sealents are also great products to have. i would say GO FOR IT!:)



Vernon
 
vdog0531 said:
the PC is a dummy proof piece of equipment that would be a great addition to your collection. very very very easy to use and will do everything you want to do. as far as availability, price, and ease of use, the Poorboy's SSR polishes are a very good choice for you IMO. the Poorboy's sealents are also great products to have. i would say GO FOR IT!:)



Vernon



EDIT: i am talking about the Porter Cable 7424 random orbital buffer NOT the Porter Cable rotary. i woudln't suggest the rotary unless you are very confident in your fast paced learning abilities and willing to take some risks up front.
 
tribblez said:
The Lowes sale for the 7336sp is very enticing, what would you guys consider to be the total "soup-to-nuts" package we would need in terms of bonnets/pads/backing plate/etc.... I know the polishes and other consumables depend on the condition of the paint.



Thanks!



i think the major detailing stores here (autopia store, autogeek, classic motoring accessories) all sell a kit with a backing plate, and a few pads (for polishing and finishing) to get you started.
 
Thanks for all the replies. I think I will get one as a present to myself this year. I may stop by Lowes this weekend. Then I will have to buy pads etc... I won't be able to use it till the spring, I don't have a heated garage and it's about to get real cold in NH.



Thanks,

Steve





Pic of car



18990photos_365.jpg
 
Nice looking beemer man! Those 18" wheels? I want to say 20" as well but I don't want to go overboard. The pc is an excellent machine. For it's value, your average newbie to being a perfectionist, a PC is almost a must have. If you want to keep your car looking gorgeous but don't have the skills of a pro, a PC if for you. Hell even your sister or someone could use it. The only downside about a PC is time, if you want to say DACP your car which it looks doesn't need right now, expect to spend 3-4 hours give or take just for that. That's my own personal experience anyway. Other than time, the PC is a great machine,,,,AR
 
Airborne Ranger said:
Nice looking beemer man! Those 18" wheels? I want to say 20" as well but I don't want to go overboard. The pc is an excellent machine. For it's value, your average newbie to being a perfectionist, a PC is almost a must have. If you want to keep your car looking gorgeous but don't have the skills of a pro, a PC if for you. Hell even your sister or someone could use it. The only downside about a PC is time, if you want to say DACP your car which it looks doesn't need right now, expect to spend 3-4 hours give or take just for that. That's my own personal experience anyway. Other than time, the PC is a great machine,,,,AR



Thanks, those are factory 17" rims.
 
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