NFRs2000NYC

Ok guys, so after all these years with my trusty porter cable, I think I would like to venture out to a rotary.

Now, I am looking for something the side of the PC, maybe even a bit smaller, that is good quality and has lots of easy to get parts/pads, etc.

Any suggestions from the pros or those in the know, would be greately appreciated!

Had my eye on one of these, good deal? Good polisher?
http://www.amazon.com/DEWALT-DW849-Electro...1432092&sr=8-12

It seems this one might be a little bit more user friendly, and since I don't run my own shop, might suit my DIY needs better, what say you?

http://www.autogeek.net/flex-l3403vr...-polisher.html

NFRs2000NYC

Sigh, after a whole bunch of reading, it seems the best choice is the Makita 9227C-X3. Supposedly, the 1100 RPM starting speed of the Flex is too high for a noob, and the Makita is tried and true.

DetailDan

Dewalt is the way to go.

Reality33

The Makita is a great tool, especially for the low speeds it can achieve. I myself prefer the 3403 though. Its really light and just is easier to control. Also, since it is lighter then the others, its less pressure on the paint, and less chance to burn through. If your starting out, I would really consider using the 3403.

Better yet, grab a 3401 VRG. Its a gear driven orbital polisher that is the best of both worlds. It will tackle the more stubborn paint issues as it generates much more heat then a dual action, but still has the finesse of an orbital.

In my shop, the 3401 is the main player, and I absolutely love it.

Ubetit

I have the older version of the Dewalt 849, the B&D 6138. I have the Flex 3401 which i like. I've also used the makita.

My favorite rotary however is the Hitachi, don't overlook it. It is lighter and more powerful than the others. The Dewalt is 2 pounds heavier. When working side panels that weight really makes a difference.

* No Load Speed
Makita 9227: 600 to 3,000 RPM
Hitachi SP18VA: 600 to 3,400 RPM
DeWalt 849: 1,000 to 3,000
Porter Cable 7428: 1,000 to 3,000 RPM

* Amps
Makita 9227: 10
Hitachi SP18VA: 11
DeWalt 849: 8
Porter Cable 7428: 10

* Tool Weight
Makita 9227: 6.6 lbs
Hitachi SP18VA: 6.2 lbs
DeWalt 849: 8.25 lbs
Porter Cable 7428: 8.0

* Variable Speed Trigger
Makita 9227: Yes
Hitachi SP18VA: Yes
DeWalt 849: Yes
Porter Cable 7428: Yes

* Soft Start
Makita 9227: Yes
Hitachi SP18VA: Yes
DeWalt 849: Yes
Porter Cable 7428: Yes

* Electronic Speed Control
Makita 9227: Yes
Hitachi SP18VA: Yes
DeWalt 849: Yes
Porter Cable 7428: Yes

* Trigger Lock
Makita 9227: Yes
Hitachi SP18VA: Yes
DeWalt 849: Yes
Porter Cable 7428: Yes

* Bale / Loop Handle
Makita 9227: Yes
Hitachi SP18VA: Yes
DeWalt 849: No – uses side handle (straight)
Porter Cable 7428: Yes

* Factory Warranty
Makita 9227: 1 Year
Hitachi SP18VA: 5 Years
DeWalt 849: 1 Year
Porter Cable 7428: 1 Year

NFRs2000NYC

Thats my main beef with the Dewalt, it's very heavy. Been reading up on the hitachi, and it seems like a great machine. 5 year warranty is also a great bonus.

What is a variable speed trigger? The harder you squeeze, the faster the machine goes? Seems like after a while, your hand would get really tired of squeezing the trigger no? Do they not have a constant "ON" switch?

Ubetit

They all have a trigger lock

metros

Excellent thread. I'm in a similar position. I've used my porter cable to detail numerous cars all summer. I'm looking into the rotary option to save some time over the porter cable.

At this point it's just a thought. Continue gentlemen

Alphamale

Never touched one before I bought my Flex. Complete noob. Haven't had the first issue.

slanguage

I have the Makita, and it's a great machine for the money. Had mine for a couple of years now, dropped it once already (not far) and its still kickin.

I kept a DA (PC) for jeweling, wax/sealant application, and simpler correction jobs.

One of my detailing buddies has the Flex, and that thing is LOUD.

Good luck in your search.


p.s. I have one rotary and 2 dual-action polishers