Orbital buffer vs. hand wax - Camaro5 Chevy Camaro Forum / Camaro ZL1, SS and V6 Forums

scandata · 10-02-2014, 09:33 PM

As far as the end result, is there an advantage to using an orbital buffer (such as a Porter Cable) over hand waxing? I'm sensitive to loud noises, especially power tools like the type of noise a buffer makes so I would just as soon hand wax, but if a buffer will make the car look better when it's done, I could always use ear plugs.
I've heard that a buffer reduces the chances of swirls, but I don't understand why that would be if I'm hand buffing with clean cloths.

I haven't bought a buffer yet, but if I get one it will be a P/C, which last I checked are around $130.00 (plus pads), so I just want to know if it's worth the investment for my needs.

Thanks guys!

45thAnniversary2SS · 10-02-2014, 09:37 PM

You are not going to be able to get close to the results a machine will give you. Plus saves your arms.

I can certainly notice a big improvement after going to the P/C.

Are you only referring to waxing only or also polishing? I use hand foam applicator still for applying and microfiber for removing wax.

JTruck · 10-02-2014, 09:53 PM

Necessity for PC for polishing: YES

Necessity for PC for waxing: No

charlietuna · 10-03-2014, 01:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by JTruck

Necessity for PC for polishing: YES

Necessity for PC for waxing: No

This.

lbls1 · 10-03-2014, 08:51 AM

You can use either method. Personally I prefer the hand method for paste wax. Applying wax by hand gives me more control over the spread, stretch and buffing out of the paste. Some brands will also recommend the type of application that's best for their product, so review directions and go from there.

harner · 10-03-2014, 09:42 AM

Last year I took the plunge and invested in a PC (found it for $99 at Home Depot) and one of the kits from Adams Polishes. Came with like 4 pads and 4 types of polishes, plus I got a bunch of other odds and ends like their all purpose cleaner, In and Out spray, etc.

I gave a few cars the Adams treatment and still have a bunch leftover. I handwash the pads and air dry. It made a night and day difference on my TBSS! 100k miles worth of swirls 90% gone using the severe swirl remover and everything else. If I would have done another couple passes with it, I'm sure almost all would have been removed. A clear reflection on black paint still boggles my mind.

I'm sure you could receive similar results with other pads, polishes, and polishers. But, I'm happy with the results.

SSJ455 · 10-03-2014, 10:09 AM

I polish with a DA buffer but wax/seal by hand.

DylanVK · 10-03-2014, 10:54 AM

I'll echo what the others have said - if its JUST waxing theres no real benefit to using a machine (aside from maybe a tad bit more speed and saving you some shoulder work)

BUT, understand that waxing ≠ polishing, and thats something that confuses a lot of people.

Wax is merely a protective coating over the paint, it will not remove swirl marks, water spots, or other surface imperfections. So if you are trying to removing imperfections (aka correct the paint) you will need to polish and in that case there are HUGE advantages to using a machine.

With your sensitivity to noise have you considered wearing ear plugs? Honestly, most guys should wear ear protection who polish regularly. The noise level produced for most machines in use is often times beyond what is recommended for prolonged exposure without protection anyways.

el ess A · 10-03-2014, 02:49 PM

Noise? What noise? Seriously, PC isn't very noisy.

scandata · 10-03-2014, 03:37 PM

FIRST, thanks to all to you for the insight! After reading these comments, I'll definitely get a buffer. I should have clarified that I do use polish before waxing (and detail spray after waxing), so a buffer would be a good investment for me. I already use a pair of noise canceling headphones when I vacuum and use the leaf blower after washing. I can wear them to buff too.

Now I'll start noodling through some more threads and Youtube videos to find the best methods for the job.

And harner, that pic with the dog is incredible! I didn't even realize it was a reflection until I scrolled to the SS badge. I'll look into that Adams kit you used.

CamaroJim56 · 10-03-2014, 05:31 PM

Mine, I used for waxing... a hell of a lot faster and easier to apply a thin layer.

You have already decided, so that is good.

It makes the application much faster as well as easier, you will still have to hand wax some areas.

Good luck.

Jim

scandata · 10-03-2014, 10:50 PM

OK, I have a PC 7424XP on order ($109.00 from Amazon). Any advice on pads?

Also, what are holograms? I searched the forum and found lots of references to them, but no pictures.

Nor Cal ZL1 · 10-04-2014, 12:51 PM

Holograms caused by very poor technique. Just study up a bit and go slow with the PC and products.
There are many videos on YT here is one that I like. This should be enough to get you started.

scandata · 10-04-2014, 07:34 PM

Wow, those swirls look awful!

10-02-2014, 09:33 PM	#1
scandata Drives: 2015 2SS/RS vert, Spring Green Edtn Join Date: Jun 2014 Location: Sarasota, FL Posts: 1,284	Orbital buffer vs. hand wax As far as the end result, is there an advantage to using an orbital buffer (such as a Porter Cable) over hand waxing? I'm sensitive to loud noises, especially power tools like the type of noise a buffer makes so I would just as soon hand wax, but if a buffer will make the car look better when it's done, I could always use ear plugs. I've heard that a buffer reduces the chances of swirls, but I don't understand why that would be if I'm hand buffing with clean cloths. I haven't bought a buffer yet, but if I get one it will be a P/C, which last I checked are around $130.00 (plus pads), so I just want to know if it's worth the investment for my needs. Thanks guys! __________________ 2015 2SS/RS vert, Spring Edition Green Flash (2015 - present) 2014 1LT vert, Blue Ray Metallic (2014 - 2015)

10-02-2014, 09:37 PM	#2
45thAnniversary2SS Drives: 2012 45th Anniversary 2SS LS3 Join Date: Feb 2012 Location: Charlotte, NC Posts: 2,812 View My Garage	You are not going to be able to get close to the results a machine will give you. Plus saves your arms. I can certainly notice a big improvement after going to the P/C. Are you only referring to waxing only or also polishing? I use hand foam applicator still for applying and microfiber for removing wax. __________________

10-02-2014, 09:53 PM	#3
JTruck Drives: 2014 Camaro 1LT/RS Join Date: Sep 2013 Location: Arizona Posts: 1,693	Necessity for PC for polishing: YES Necessity for PC for waxing: No __________________ Detailing is an involuntary obsession.

10-03-2014, 08:51 AM	#5
lbls1 Drives: 2002 Camaro SS SOM; 2015 Malibu LTZ Join Date: Dec 2010 Location: Queens, NY Posts: 4,071	You can use either method. Personally I prefer the hand method for paste wax. Applying wax by hand gives me more control over the spread, stretch and buffing out of the paste. Some brands will also recommend the type of application that's best for their product, so review directions and go from there. __________________ '02 CAMARO SS SOM; 5.7L LS1/FLS6B '08 TBSS AWD Black Granite Metallic '15 Malibu LTZ 2LZ Turbo *'14 CAMARO ZL1 Blue Ray Metallic* '25 Silverado 1500 High Country 6.2L

10-03-2014, 09:42 AM	#6
harner Drives: 2018 ZL1 A10 Join Date: Sep 2014 Location: NEPA Posts: 454	Last year I took the plunge and invested in a PC (found it for $99 at Home Depot) and one of the kits from Adams Polishes. Came with like 4 pads and 4 types of polishes, plus I got a bunch of other odds and ends like their all purpose cleaner, In and Out spray, etc. I gave a few cars the Adams treatment and still have a bunch leftover. I handwash the pads and air dry. It made a night and day difference on my TBSS! 100k miles worth of swirls 90% gone using the severe swirl remover and everything else. If I would have done another couple passes with it, I'm sure almost all would have been removed. A clear reflection on black paint still boggles my mind. I'm sure you could receive similar results with other pads, polishes, and polishers. But, I'm happy with the results. Attached Images __________________ SOLD! 9/1/2020 2018 ZL1 A10 Hyper Blue - Rotofab CAI, Gibson catback @SurefireDetail OEM ZLE tails/third brake light, Gen5DIY reverse LEDs, front Amber LEDs, SMG laser LED side markers, SMG smoked reflectors 1994 Trans Am LM7/CPT 4L60E/9" 1987 IROC 2006 Silverado

10-03-2014, 10:09 AM	#7
SSJ455 Drives: "Kara Zor-El" 2017 2SS HBM Join Date: Jul 2014 Location: Lower Hudson Valley Posts: 2,055 View My Garage	I polish with a DA buffer but wax/seal by hand. __________________ Lead me not into temptation. I already know the way. Lana? Lana? LANA! LAAANAAAA!!!! What? Dangerzoooooone.

10-03-2014, 10:54 AM	#8
DylanVK Drives: a few Join Date: Mar 2014 Location: Colorado Posts: 507	I'll echo what the others have said - if its JUST waxing theres no real benefit to using a machine (aside from maybe a tad bit more speed and saving you some shoulder work) BUT, understand that waxing ≠ polishing, and thats something that confuses a lot of people. Wax is merely a protective coating over the paint, it will not remove swirl marks, water spots, or other surface imperfections. So if you are trying to removing imperfections (aka correct the paint) you will need to polish and in that case there are HUGE advantages to using a machine. With your sensitivity to noise have you considered wearing ear plugs? Honestly, most guys should wear ear protection who polish regularly. The noise level produced for most machines in use is often times beyond what is recommended for prolonged exposure without protection anyways. __________________ *1967 C/10 PROJECT TRUCK \| DETAILING EXPERT \| CRAFT BEER ENTHUSIAST*

10-03-2014, 02:49 PM	#9
el ess A Older Than Dirt Drives: 2010 & 2013 Camaros Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: Aiken, SC Posts: 4,685	Noise? What noise? Seriously, PC isn't very noisy. __________________ 2010 2SS TE, 1 of 822/2013 Camaro ZL1 vert, 1 of 54

10-03-2014, 03:37 PM	#10
scandata Drives: 2015 2SS/RS vert, Spring Green Edtn Join Date: Jun 2014 Location: Sarasota, FL Posts: 1,284	FIRST, thanks to all to you for the insight! After reading these comments, I'll definitely get a buffer. I should have clarified that I do use polish before waxing (and detail spray after waxing), so a buffer would be a good investment for me. I already use a pair of noise canceling headphones when I vacuum and use the leaf blower after washing. I can wear them to buff too. Now I'll start noodling through some more threads and Youtube videos to find the best methods for the job. And harner, that pic with the dog is incredible! I didn't even realize it was a reflection until I scrolled to the SS badge. I'll look into that Adams kit you used. __________________ 2015 2SS/RS vert, Spring Edition Green Flash (2015 - present) 2014 1LT vert, Blue Ray Metallic (2014 - 2015)

10-03-2014, 05:31 PM	#11
CamaroJim56 Obsessed Drives: 2016 Hyper Blue 2SS RS Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: Riverview, FL Posts: 2,606	Mine, I used for waxing... a hell of a lot faster and easier to apply a thin layer. You have already decided, so that is good. It makes the application much faster as well as easier, you will still have to hand wax some areas. Good luck. Jim __________________ 2016 Hyper Blue 2SS

10-03-2014, 10:50 PM	#12
scandata Drives: 2015 2SS/RS vert, Spring Green Edtn Join Date: Jun 2014 Location: Sarasota, FL Posts: 1,284	OK, I have a PC 7424XP on order ($109.00 from Amazon). Any advice on pads? Also, what are holograms? I searched the forum and found lots of references to them, but no pictures. __________________ 2015 2SS/RS vert, Spring Edition Green Flash (2015 - present) 2014 1LT vert, Blue Ray Metallic (2014 - 2015)

10-04-2014, 07:34 PM	#14
scandata Drives: 2015 2SS/RS vert, Spring Green Edtn Join Date: Jun 2014 Location: Sarasota, FL Posts: 1,284	Wow, those swirls look awful! __________________ 2015 2SS/RS vert, Spring Edition Green Flash (2015 - present) 2014 1LT vert, Blue Ray Metallic (2014 - 2015)