I never used a DA polisher but would like to buy one. I have been looking at the new HD polisher kit by 3D Products and the Meguiars DA G110v2. What should I be looking for as someone new? I will only be using it on my own vehicles, Infiniti FX35 and a Toyota Sienna. Is one really better then the other? Thanks.
Wanting to buy first DA.
- Thread starter I26
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Dan
Well-known member
Hard to say, the 3D machine is the new kid in town, it looks promising but you won't know how reliable it is until its been out for a while. I'd be thinking 3D or Griots. The Megs machine is good, but the Griots is better and has a better warranty.
togwt
The Old Grey Whistle Test
This information may prove to be useful-
What I consider to be the best PC How-To available -Machine Polishing By Dual Action Polisher, Dave KG – Machine Polishing by Dual Action Polisher - Full Guide - Detailing World
Current Dual Action Polisher (HD Polisher, Griot’s Garage 6, Meguiars®, G110v2, Porter Cable 7424XP and Shurhold) Comparison - http://www.autopia.org/forum/machin...-polisher-comparison-garry-dean-tampa-fl.html
What I consider to be the best PC How-To available -Machine Polishing By Dual Action Polisher, Dave KG – Machine Polishing by Dual Action Polisher - Full Guide - Detailing World
Current Dual Action Polisher (HD Polisher, Griot’s Garage 6, Meguiars®, G110v2, Porter Cable 7424XP and Shurhold) Comparison - http://www.autopia.org/forum/machin...-polisher-comparison-garry-dean-tampa-fl.html
IHA Mark
New member
Why not just get a Porter Cable 7424XP?
1. Reliable
2. Powerful enough for most uses, professional or not
3. Good warranty
4. Manufacturer that has a great reputation.
5. Ease of use.
1. Reliable
2. Powerful enough for most uses, professional or not
3. Good warranty
4. Manufacturer that has a great reputation.
5. Ease of use.
I recently went through the same decision process as you and ended up with the Groits after months of reading on this and other forums. The GG has more power than the others (with the exception of perhaps the 3D) it won't bog down with normal pressure and on body curves like the PCXP. On top of that it has a Lifetime Warranty. On your two cars (and lets face it you'll end up doing family and friends also) you might use it 4-8 times a year--imagine if 4 years down the road it has problems and quits working--with any other unit you'll have to spend some money--not with the Groits--just send it back for repair or replacement.
Detailers Domain (one of our sponsors) has some great packages that include a 5" backing plate and mix and match 5 or 10 (I would suggest at least 10) Uber Pads (these are the same as Buff&Shine and 3D pads). They have recessed Velcro for an added margin of safety when polishing near protruding objects on the car.
Or if you're not in a rush Amazon has it on sale for $80 (including shipping) every so often in their Gold Box Deals--you have to watch for it and be quick as they usually go in a few hours. If you go this route you'll have to add a 5" backing plate (about $15) In both cases you can get a 12' two way, 16 gauge extension (recommended by Groits) at HD for $7.50 and you're good to go.
On another note: Take a look at the HD polishing products--very beginner friendly.
Detailers Domain (one of our sponsors) has some great packages that include a 5" backing plate and mix and match 5 or 10 (I would suggest at least 10) Uber Pads (these are the same as Buff&Shine and 3D pads). They have recessed Velcro for an added margin of safety when polishing near protruding objects on the car.
Or if you're not in a rush Amazon has it on sale for $80 (including shipping) every so often in their Gold Box Deals--you have to watch for it and be quick as they usually go in a few hours. If you go this route you'll have to add a 5" backing plate (about $15) In both cases you can get a 12' two way, 16 gauge extension (recommended by Groits) at HD for $7.50 and you're good to go.
On another note: Take a look at the HD polishing products--very beginner friendly.
Thanks for all the advice. I have been watching videos of Garry Dean and his reviews of all his DA polishers. It turns out there is a 3D products store nearby (Manheim, PA) that I might visit to see what they have there. I figure its time to step it up and get a DA. I will be sure to check out the other links posted.
ll Diabolic ll
New member
I would recommend a Griots. Porter cable, not so much. I think their a little over rated(I own both machines). Their definitely not the same quality that they used to be back in the day.
2005GTPinMD
New member
I am curious about this too. How hard is it to learn how to use one? I would really like to get my car into top shape so I can opti-coat it.
IHA Mark
New member
Legacy99 said:
I respect your opinion, but I find if I need anything heavier than a PC on speed 6 with a yellow pad and 105, I reach for a rotary. It really depends on what type of details you are doing all the time. I find I accomplish a lot with just a MF pad on my PC...
2005GTPinMD said:
My wifes Sienna has single stage paint and is extremely hard to get a shine on. It always look hazy. I can get the shine back if I work some Ultimate Compound and then polish. All-in all ii takes forever. I have come to hate white vehicles, mostly in part to the single stage.
imported_RZJZA80
New member
It's not hard to learn how to use an RO or DA, at all. A rotary, well that's another situation. RO's and DA's are very forgiving, the hardest part is matching the correct pad with the correct compound/polish, along with the correct speed, but once you get that down, it's all about your process and the paint itself. Don't hesitate to pick one up and just start using it, I'll give you 15 minutes to get the hang of it.
IHA Mark said:
Agreed, but if a person is only going to have one machine (like most of us hobbyists) doesn't it make sense for them to have something that is better than just adequate? In Gary's review of the 3D polisher he rates the Griots just behind the 3D in power. That plus the lifetime warranty makes it an excellent choice for the DIY detailer, IMO.