New to the PC 7424, what should I know?

[imported_RedlineIRL]

I'm planning on picking up a PC 7427, probably from autogeek.net since they have some nice package deals. For a beginner, would this be a good starter kit? Porter Cable 7424 & Foam Pad Kit - Car Buffer



For now, I just plan on using non abrasive polish like Meguiars deep crystal until I get familiar with it. Basically, with the intenet to remove some light swirls and to bring out an awesome shine.



I see that a lot of pads are called cutting pads. Are these pads used mostly for abrasive polishes? What would I need for a non to very light abrasive polish like I plan on using ?



Would it be a good idea to use this out of the box on my newer car, or should I practice on a beater first? In other words, is it easy for beginners to cause any damage even on a lower speed? I plan on starting out using a low speed on ot 2-3 until I get used to it and go from there. I'm familiar with using the one speed orbital buffers, but I'm sure the PC is quite different.



Any other tips would be greatly appreciated. I'm looking forward to using the PC.

 

[cheech]

I bought exactly the same kit. Got it last week. Never used one before but I watched all of the video instructions I could find and read the threads here and on autogeek. The sheet that comes with the kit does a pretty good job describing the various pads you get. I asked some advice from forum members I thought knew what they were talking about in deciding what pad/product combinations to use and went after it - on my black M-B SLK32 AMG. Awesome results the first time around. I was fairly conservative to start with. Start light and increase the cutting power (pads/product combinations) to step up to get the correction you need. Be careful, not afraid.

 

[Infinite1]

That package has everything you need. Excellent choice!



In regards to cutting pads is what you use to correct your paint (i.e. for swirls, holograms, etc) The ORANGE is used for more abrasive polishes such as XMT #2 to #4. The WHITE "cutting pad" would be used for lighter swirl removers such as XMT #1, XMT 360, klasse, etc..



To answer this it depends on how confident you feel about using the PC. I just recently used mine on my very first detail this past weekend. My car is an 04 G35 and I didn't really practice with anything. But definitely DO YOUR RESEARCH (can't emphasize enough) i'm not saying you'll mess up but the more knowledge you have it'll make ya more confident.



Good luck! Let us know how it goes!