What Porter Cable should I buy

[Go Flames Go]

Hi,

First off, this site is great. Lots of useful information and how to guides (Thanks Brandon!), I plan on keeping my Tundra super clean and this site has been a big help.

I am interested in getting a Porter Cable; however, I don’t know which version (model) I should buy. I am willing to spend extra to get something that will work for a long time. I did a search of the site and saw that many different models are mentioned but no clear indication of which model is the best. I am looking for the “all around model” if that exist.

As well, I know different pads are used for different applications, I have some very light scratches on my tail gate, what pad would be best for “buffing” these out. Further, what products go with what pad and work well with pc.

Lots of questions, sorry if some of this has been discussed.

Thanks in advance,

Blake

[Jumbo Jet]

The PC 7336 or 7424 are the ones you want to look for. Besides the counter weight, they are the same unit. You'll still need to buy a hook and loop backing plate too.

Detailers Paradise has a bundle on the 7336 with backing plate and pads for $192.

Detailers Paradise: Premium Car Care Products, Auto Detailing

[KLINDSEY]

I have a PC 7424 and it is very good but now there is a new model out The Ulimate you can get it in the Meguires trim (with lifetime warringty) at the following web site alone or as a kit with pads and all.
Meguiars G110 Polisher.
I have used this site to buy Megs pads which I like and also Last Touch detailer which I like as I can get it in 1 gallon size which lasts me a good long time. This new PC has a few new things as in better on/off switch location and nicer handle, and lower vibration I have been told.
Shop and compare, ask Brandon about this new one he proably knows alot more about it than I do.
Kevin

[TundraSoul]

Here's the PC 7424 from autogeek.net. They usually have deals and combo packages worth looking into.

[Brandon1]

A pc from autogeek.net would be a great buy. They have 1Z on sale now, and it's killer stuff!

[TRDatVT]

Found a better deal on the PC...Porter Cable Packages

[Brandon1]

Originally Posted by TRDatVT

Found a better deal on the PC...Porter Cable Packages

For some reason, TOL's packages come with 7.5" pads. That is WAYYY to much for the PC, it does not have that much power.

Still much better off going with AG's PC package.

[akauth]

This is probably the best rebranded - reworked PC type DA polisher.


Griot's Garage Random Orbital - Power Tools - Tools - Griot's Garage

It's also pretty cheap. The handle is pretty much the difference. On a PC, I don't even put the handle on because a lot of the time I'm using it in one hand and just "palm sanding" with it.

But this is an improvement - much like the meguiars version of the same thing. It is an improvement. But if you can find a used PC, that will probably last the rest of your life anyway - well unless you use it for a living. Then you'll probably have broken it by dropping it sooner or later - which it will take many times over.


alan

[Brandon1]

Originally Posted by akauth

This is probably the best rebranded - reworked PC type DA polisher.


Griot's Garage Random Orbital - Power Tools - Tools - Griot's Garage

It's also pretty cheap. The handle is pretty much the difference. On a PC, I don't even put the handle on because a lot of the time I'm using it in one hand and just "palm sanding" with it.

But this is an improvement - much like the meguiars version of the same thing. It is an improvement. But if you can find a used PC, that will probably last the rest of your life anyway - well unless you use it for a living. Then you'll probably have broken it by dropping it sooner or later - which it will take many times over.


alan

I've heard good things about that product. Only thing is, I cant say enough about Porter Cable's product support. I had a PC that was a little loose between the head and motor, sent me a brand new one. They have a product they stand behind 200%, I havent heard the same for Griots

[08TacomaKRV]

Brandon, what brand/manufacturer pads do you recommend using with the PC7424?

[Brandon1]

Honestly, I like either the Cobra/Lake Country 5.5" pads (they allow for easier working and more correction) or the Cobra 6.5" cross cut pads.

You can also get a 3.5" backing plate and a 3.5" Foamed Wool Pad for severe defects if you need.

[porsche2nr]

Brandon, thanks for making me spend 300 dollars..LOL... you and some other guys on TS convinced me that the products at walmart are crappy... so i got the PC Pinnacle bundle kit from autogeek and some other things... i'll try to do half as good as you at detailing... hopefully being drunk wont make me lazy....haha

[Brandon1]

Haha, i've drank while detailing, but I dont recomend being any more than "tipsy" while detailing.

And $300 isnt bad, I spend that almost a month on supplies. Plus, your vehicles will look awesome and you will have new pride in your rides!!!

[Go Flames Go]

Hi Brandon,

I just got the PC 7424, when I use it at low speeds it makes a bit of a grinding noise. At high speeds it sounds fine. Is this normal? I have never had a machine like this and want to make sure it is operating properly before I use it on my vehicle.

Thanks,

Blake

[Brandon1]

It will usually make wierd noises, but all is normal, unless it craps out on you, dont worry bout it lol!