which damn detailing machine is the best bang for the ****en buck?
ive heard about the pc 7424, 7426, and udm.

 

if you are asking what buffer brand is the best then i would say a variable speed dewalt or makita. they make the best buffers

 

jjj, all of the ones you listed are very comparable. You can typically find a little better deal on the UDM since it comes w/ a flexible backing plate, white polishing pad, canvas carry bag, backing plate tool while the porter cable does not include any of the above and would need to be purchased seperately. But again, the pc and udm are very comparable and you cant really go wrong w/ either

 

Slight edge goes to the UDM as it has a bit more ***** for correction than the PC. Price is comparable.

If you want something better than that, The Flex is the way to go. A bit more pricey though but you get a much better machine in return. Some say it does 90% of what an orbital can do without the added risk. I reckon the only knock on it is that is has a fixed backing plate so if you like to use 4" pads your out of luck.