Hey guys ive got some questions about buffers. First of all i have a 96 black z28. i've seen that some of you recommend buffers but ive always heard not to use them because they will leave swirls all over the car espically red and dark colors. I plan on trying the Zainos wax because so many of you recommend it. But will the buffer leave swirls on my car, where to get one, where to get a good one and what a good one will cost, also how to use it without leaving swirls and how good will my car look (better than hand buffing maybe)?

Thanks for the help
Drew

 

First, you have to define buffer, there are two kinds, 1. High speed rotary and 2. Orbital

For the novice you want the orbital, rotary buffers are the ones that can cause paint damage if not used properly.

You will want to use foams pad with the orbital.

Orbitals go from 150 or 30 bucks depending on things like name brand and adjustable speeds or single speeds.

Buffers are used when working abrasive polish compounds into paint, no need to use one if you are just using Zaino as Zaino has no abrasives.

If you have swirls it will be best to buff most of those out before using the Z-5, to do this use the orbital, foam pad, and 3M Swirl Mark Remover part number 39009.

Lots of people use the Porter Cable orbital, but I use a WEN brand name buffer when I have to.

 

What Kevin said. I use a Porter Cable random orbital buffer/polisher and it does a very nice job. It can reach up to 6k RPMs but I only buff at the recommended 2.5-3k RPMs.