I've got a

http://www.midwayautosupply.com/deta...ption.asp?8902

Coleman Random Orbital 10', 2500rpm. Is it worth anything for my 2k max? I got it as a b-day gift from my GF. Maybe a 30 dollar unit so I wont be heart broken but just woundering if its worth anything.

Also another note, I have some heavy swirl marks on my hood because my dad had this great idea to help remove bugs and used some kind of turtle heavy rubbing compound. Not sure if my clearcoat/paint is royally messed up or not. I've cleaned/polished/waxed several coast and its still a bit shiney but seems I cant get out those swirl marks.

I've seen many write ups and detailing and I'm going to try some tricks you guys mentioned soon, but I think I am limited to everything by hand so I'm not sure if that'll do it. I'm considering taking it to a profressional detailer and getting the outside done. Can someone recommend what I should look for in a detailer? I heard sand blasting but I dont even know what that is. I dont have a problem cleaning my own car, so I'm not sure if the 100ish bucks to get it professionally detailed would be better spent on buying a nice 6 inch rotary unit (mentioned variously throughout this forum). But everyone says you can damage your car using them if your not a pro or something which I'm not but I'm a quick learner .

Anyone able to kick me in the right direction?

 

Some guys have used that type of orbital polisher with success. The most popular random orbital is the Porter Cable. About $120, plus the cost of some pads. There are more pads that will fit that one than the $30 one you have.

Jeez....sandblasting? If a detail shop told you that...run away!! The Turtle Wax Rubbing Compound stuff your dad used is very abrasive. The swirl marks will probably come out, but it will take a bit of work. Maybe take it to a shop to have that done, and do the rest yourself.

You are correct in that a rotary can damage the paint if not used properly, that's why many of us (myself included) use the Porter Cable. It's almost impossible to damage the finish with a random orbital machine.

 

That falls under the "wax-on, wax-off" buffer. Those machines are not going to generate enough friction to adequately break down a polish (especially some of the stuff I use). If you want a polisher that isn't going to be too difficult for you, I would recommend a Porter Cable 7424.

There are a couple of kits at http://www.autopia-carcare.com that have the 7424, the flexible backing plate, and the necessary pads.

Another advantage is that you have a myriad of pads and other attachments for the PC such as 4" spot pads and various brushes (I have the leather and vinyl brush from www.topoftheline.com).