[Carn]

I'm looking for a good all round polisher that can be used for detailing. Whilst I have used rotary machines before I am no expert but at the same time want to learn and improve my skills.

Would it be best to jump in an buy a rotary (DeWalt 849 or Makita 9227) or would something like the Makita BO6040 which offers an orbital mode and forced rotation orbital mode be good enough for the majority of the jobs I am likely to encounter ? I know there will be jobs where a rotary will be required but at the moment the budget doesn't quite stretch to 2 machines.

On a side note, will most of the 6" pads (3M, Meguiars, ect) work on the Makita BO6040 orbital machine or are they designed purely for rotary applications ?

[klumzypinoy]

If you want forced rotation and random orbit many would recommend Flex. I forgot what model number but there's many many posts on here about it

[sneek]

Originally Posted by klumzypinoy

If you want forced rotation and random orbit many would recommend Flex. I forgot what model number but there's many many posts on here about it

3401


I like using the rotary more than using RO's and most DA's. I am a big fan of air DA's but they are costly.

I would get the makita ( even though their CS is shady)...but with that said I have ordered a DW849. I am not sure if I will get the 849, but it seems like it can take more abuse.

[Cooter]

I have a PC and a Flex. I plan on getting a rotary one day. Until that day comes, i'll be happy with my Flex. Its such an improvement over the PC. Comparing them is kinda like apples and orages though. Its a nice machine though. Others will weigh in on this discussion and offer you some good advice. There's no replacement for experience.

	PC Porter-Cable Orbital Buffer 7424 or 7336. One of the most famous tool used by a variety of detailers, from weekend warriors to professional detailers.

[Carn]

Thanks for the advice. Makita seems to have good recommendations here in SA for service (most companies here are slack in that regards so it makes little difference). Is the BO6040 not quite similar in function to the Flex machine offering an orbital and forced rotation orbital modes or does the Flex offer only a purely orbital polishing mode ?

Edit: See Flex tools are available here in SA, will request a quote and see.

Makita BO6040 or Flex XC 3401 VRG and why ?

[Carn]

Just to add, can the Flex type machines use polished designed specifically for rotary application ?

[supercharged]

Flex, all the way!!!

[reefer_bob]

Get a flex and fuggetaboutit.

Yes, the flex has the power to break down rotary compounds.

Plus it's quite safe!

[Nica]

Well seeing as you have used a rotary before I'd say stay with the rotary, you can't go wrong with Metabo, Makita or the Flex rotary...mind you I've never used the Flex rotary...but I sure am enjoying having the Metabo and Makita.

Each machine will have it's up's and downs, it's how well you use the machines features to use that will make it worth wile. I can understand why people like Makita and I can understand why others like Metabo....I personaly like having both but that's just my