Stopped by my local Harbor Freight to pick up some shop towels they had on special so took the opportunity to look at the new DA polisher. I have to admit I was impressed--seems very solidly built and felt good in the hands. Speed switch is a continuous switch without detents at each speed. On/Off switch seems about the same as on other DAs. Power cord was soft and much more flexible than the cord on my GG6 (my biggest complaint with the GG--cheap plastic cord--kinks easily). Weight seems to be the same as the GG6. The wobble of the backing plate (when spun manually) mentioned by others seems clearly to be the lack of quality of the backing plate itself which shouldn't be a problem since most users will replace it with a 5" plate anyhow.
Have to say if I was purchasing my first DA for use on personal cars I'd seriosly consider this unit--- so for $68 (with the 20% coupon) you'd get the polisher and at least a 2 year warranty. Only problem, that puts it within $12 of a GG6 which are frequently on sale for $80 with a lifetime warranty which I think is valuable to those of us just doing this as a hobby--3,4 or 5 years down the road if my GG breaks down, just send it to Griots for repair, but I understand how this would be a pain for a pro who needs his tools every day.
A note to those considering this unit---the price tag said it was only on sale for $59 until 11/30/12. Who knows what the price will be after that.
On another note: if you go by the rope and cord section of HF you'll find a nice selection of spring loaded "S" clips--a two or three inch "S" clip makes a great cord clip to keep the polisher cord from falling off your shoulder. One side of the S clips to your shirt and the other holds the cord. Can't beat it for $1.99
Have to say if I was purchasing my first DA for use on personal cars I'd seriosly consider this unit--- so for $68 (with the 20% coupon) you'd get the polisher and at least a 2 year warranty. Only problem, that puts it within $12 of a GG6 which are frequently on sale for $80 with a lifetime warranty which I think is valuable to those of us just doing this as a hobby--3,4 or 5 years down the road if my GG breaks down, just send it to Griots for repair, but I understand how this would be a pain for a pro who needs his tools every day.
A note to those considering this unit---the price tag said it was only on sale for $59 until 11/30/12. Who knows what the price will be after that.
On another note: if you go by the rope and cord section of HF you'll find a nice selection of spring loaded "S" clips--a two or three inch "S" clip makes a great cord clip to keep the polisher cord from falling off your shoulder. One side of the S clips to your shirt and the other holds the cord. Can't beat it for $1.99
