Newbie with a buffer - need "using a buffer 101"

[mckeand13]

I'm thinking of buying a PC buffer for regular paint maintenance/upkeep on my '02 Accord and '01 Outback.

I'm a bit worried about using a buffer though. I've never used one. I just pointed a car out to my wife the other day with swirls everywhere on it and said "want to see what a bad buff job looks like?"

I looked around in various forums here and didn't see exactly what I was looking for. I need a 101 class on what to use, when to use it, and how to use it.

I noticed one post about a red Ford that Mike did but it seems as though most of the post is missing.

Can anybody lead me towards some info? I was also thinking of purchasing Mike's "How To Use The PC for Show Car Results" DVD. Would that be a wise investment?

[Murr1525]

Well, at the moment some threads could be a little messed up since the forum was just updated, or migrated, or something or other.

However, do not worry about using a PC. As long as you don't drop it of course, it is completely gentle. You can grab the pads with your hands safely while the machine is spinning, it is that gentle.

But yes, before you order the PC, you may well want to order the DVD. It is a fantastic DVD, though your wife may think you are crazy when you watch a guy buff a car for 2:30 hours.

It is a fantastic DVD though, well worth every penny.

Meguiar's 5-Step Paint Care Cycle

Step 1 Wash

Step 2 Clean

Step 3 Polish

Step 4 Protect

Step 5 Maintain

Recommended Products - G100a Dual Action Polisher

Using the G-100 to remove swirls with the Professional Line

Rotary vs. PC vs. Regular Orbital Buffer

[kpagel]

But yes, before you order the PC, you may well want to order the DVD. It is a fantastic DVD, though your wife may think you are crazy when you watch a guy buff a car for 2:30 hours

The DVD is very thorough and should answer pretty much all of your questions. Actually being able to see Mike buffing the paint helps out tremendously. I had been using the PC for over a year and a half and I still picked up a couple pointers. The only thing better than watching Mike use the PC on a TV is watching Mike use the PC in person, but seeing as how you're not in So Cal thats not really practical.