Just ordered a Makita

I'm fed up with the PC so I just orderd a Makita from Phil (and the 3M backing plate). I'm nervous to work on my car so I'm going to get a scrap panel at a junkyard. Does anyone have any advice for someone going from a PC to a rotary? Of course I have seen Nica's videos and read Dave KG's guide. Thanks!

 

There ya go. You are headed in the right direction with that. Just practice practice practice and read more articles and watch vids.....

Hands on is the best you can do

 

ITS NOT THAT INTIMIDATING, dont sweat it. After an hour on a scrap panel you will have the confidence you need and be on your way, you will only get better in time. If you can, start with 4inch pads, they are much easier to control and help you get a feel for the fluidity of the makita. And then go ahead and burn a clear once your comfortable! See how long it takes and the damage that can be done, see how 1500rpm works out for ya, you wont go much above that unless your working a rock hard vette or something

Good luck, you got yourself a superb machine!

 

Congrats!

:cheerl:

 

Well if you saw the videos I've posted your set!

lol..just kidding, just takes practice that's all. When you first start polishing the rotary is going to seem as though it has a mind of it's own, meaning it will want to go where ever it wants and the more you try to guide it the worse it will feel but just keep trying and stick with it.

Look forward on seeing the rotary put to good use :thumb:

 

good luck man....its not to bad...just lots of practice

 

Carlos thanks for the videos. Gotta makita that should be here next week.

 

Oooh another Makita well done Cooter :applause: you'll be pleased with the machine :thumb:

Speaking of videos I should do a few more...but if I can just get the lights up in the garage then I can get back to detailing...just waiting for the lights to arrive :waiting: :waiting:

 

My best friend's dad owns a body shop. He's had some health problems lately and is gettin on up there in age (74 or so). He's been doing body work for 50+ years. I think i'm gonna try to get a couple more hoods from him to play with. He's got an old Dewalt he's had for years too.

 

If you are using Menz polishes, they are all effective around 1000 - 1200 rpm. Thats 2 - 2.5 on your Makita. 5.5" pads are easy to control as well.

 

Boy, You are getting some awesome advise here and I would like to add that you need to relax and breath. When you do, You are in control of the machine not vise versa. In other words loosin up and have fun. There is nothing to worry about if you keep your mind on the task at hand...Honest...Good luck...:thumb::thumb::thumb::thumb::thumb::thumb:

 

very nice good luck with it and practice.

 

Should I stay around that speed for all the Menz polishes from PO85RD to power gloss?

Thanks for all the advice!

 

Seriously, WATCH NICA'S VIDEOS. He makes it look so effortless with that Metabo, and they are very informative.

I agree about the pulling, you will also get buffer hop if the polish is overworked. It is awkward to use on lower panels, too. Stay at a low speed (I would keep it around 1200 for the first few times), and use a softer pad.

 

Congrats on new polisher as the others have already mentioned its not that intimidating just more power every rule that applies to the PC will apply with the makita..i'll bet since you've used a PC for a while you'll take to a makita like a duck to water..

go slow pay attention and have fun

 

thank u sir u have made a good purchase from more detailing to come...i have purchase the Makita 2 yrs ago and it still running strong ..since u not familiar wit it yet u can polish it on low speed first under 1000 ..and also thats a good idea to u a scrap part from the junk yard and practice make perfect !!! good luck

 

I got my Makita in yesterday but haven't really used it yet. It feels so much better than the PC! A lot quieter and no vibrations!

 

You'll love the Makita, best part no vibration what's so ever :thumb:

I couldn't stand the PC for the vibration...take your time learning how to use the rotary, don't rush it and like it has been mentioned here have fun with it...besides if you get stuck feel free to ask questions, we love questions...lots of members here willing to help.

 

Hey mb43, real happy for you. good luck. Makita's are just a great machine. You two should be very happy together...:applause:

 

Great choice.