So I picked one up today for ***** and giggles, to make my waxing experience less of a stress on my arms. I don't expect anything a real porter cable would give.

Anyway, picked up a Black & Decker random orbital, and I have a few questions:

I had three choices.. 6" (3,600 RPM), 7" (4,535 RPM), and a 10" (3,000 RPM).

I purchased the 7" (4,535 RPM).

Now can someone explain to me.. 1) How many RPM's does it take to burn paint? 2) Why is the 10" only 3,000 RPM but yet the 6" is 3,600 RPM.. Yet the 7" is 4,535 RPM?!

Thank you.

 

Because its a random orbital buffer rather than a rotary I wouldn't be too worried about burning paint. I'm not saying leave it in one spot to prove me wrong though

As for the different speed ratings I have no idea. Its mostly just for applying waxes so rpms don't matter too much.

 

Keep moving. Stay off of edge. Tape them if you don't feel confident.

 

yes tape off all ur edges and u should just keep it moving dont let the pannel get hot ... rpms is not what burns the paint its the heat from presser and rpm's and how much wax is left and what kinda pad... alot is involved but just use a nice foam pad and go slow and it will work great.

 

I just got a cheapo random orbital buffer. 6" 4k rpm. works great.

 

Keep moving. Random oribtal is friendly compared to a rotary so you are not likely to burn the paint.

I personally would've suggested the Porter Cable 7242. It has variable speed.

 

theres really no way to tell you what rpm you will burn the paint at lol. ive seen guys with a rotary burn paint at 1400rpm. the problem is most guys stay on edges to long or staying in one spot to long and it causes the paint to heat up. if your lucky you will catch it starting to scar as the clear gets hot before you actually burn through. thats preventable. on the other hand if you burn through you might aswell make an appointment at the local body shop.

usually random orbital buffers such as the porter cable 7424xp, udm, or meguiars polisher its VERY hard to burn paint lol. they are virtualy idiot proof. my biggest recommendation is stay off the edges and if you can go to a local body shop ask for a decent panel to practice on.

 

rptary buffer FTW, orbital can't take out deep scratches like rotary can.