Anybody try the harbor freight special?

[Scott Allen]

Looking at the cheap polisher/wax applicator from harbor freight. Dont want to spend a ton on something I'll use rarely, but I'm also not looking to pay someone else for something I'm more than capable of doing. I also dont want to scratch or scuff up either one of my vehicles. Thanks for any input

https://www.harborfreight.com/power...hers/10-in-random-orbital-polisher-61898.html

 

[DURASPANK]

Get this one instead. Throw the pad that comes with it away and get a 3M pad. Their 6" foam pads are ok but you can get better online.
https://www.harborfreight.com/6-in-57-amp-heavy-duty-dual-action-variable-speed-polisher-64528.html

 

[chrisbh17]

Get this one instead. Throw the pad that comes with it away and get a 3M pad. Their 6" foam pads are ok but you can get better online.
https://www.harborfreight.com/6-in-57-amp-heavy-duty-dual-action-variable-speed-polisher-64528.html

This.

That first one (in any form, from any retailer) is, at best, a toy.

I have the Chicago Electric version of the "Bauer" one Duraspank linked to. It works quite well....not as nice as a Rupes or Flex, but for the price paid its better than the Porter Cable unit I started with.

The mobile detailer I used to use had several HF units as his backups and said for a non-business-detailer, would work fine for a long time.

 

[Quick_Shifter]

Spend the couple extra dollars and get the adams swirl killer they have sales all the time. To make the harbor freight ones work well you need to get a new backing plate. Adams is a preferred vendor on this forum show them a little support. You will not be disappointed

 

[Dad_Jokes]

that first one is garbage. if you want a cheaper orbital get the black and decker 6" for $30ish. that will take care of most light scratch removal work you'd probably do. you'll need to add some velcro to convert it to a normal style backing plate for say $4, but otherwise its a decent cheap tool for an amateur just looking to take out some light scratches/buffing every now and then. I dont think id suggest a rotary as they tend to get you into trouble quickly with the speed and power. I've seen guys burn holes right through their paint trying to learn.