George,

I decided to buy one too for similar reasons.  After some research, I found
the Porter Cable 7424 (orbital polisher) to be widely recommended as an
excellent, safe, easy and affordable buffer for non-professionals (and
allegedly some pros).

Lots of info here:
http://bimmer.roadfly.org/bmw/forums/detailing/forum.php?postid=1430487&page
=1

And some more info at:
http://www.properautocare.com/

And I found the best price here ($120):
http://www.properautocare.com/

I haven't actually had the opportunity to use the unit, as I bought it just
after spending consecutive weekends polishing/waxing the cars by hand (and
deciding I didn't want to do that anymore!).  But most everything I've heard
about it is positive.  Granted, it is probably slightly slower than a
circular buffer, but it is supposed to be much safer (nearly fool-proof).
And for under $200 you could have a complete set-up w/ pads and all.

James V
90 Carat

On 3/20/04 9:17, "George Goff" <THX0001@AOL.COM> wrote:

> Polishing and waxing a Vanagon is such a thankless task that I never do it.
> But, I am going to change my ways.  To make the job even bearable, I have
> decided to buy a power polishing tool.  The last time I had such a thing in my
> hands, it was a tool borrowed from a body shop and I recall that it required a
> delicate balance between applying enough pressure to get the compound to work
> effectively and applying too much pressure resulting in it working too
> effectively.  The thing seemed to be constantly asking,"Should I burn through
> or not?"
>
> My question:  Do the orbital polisher/buffers (WEN for one) work effectively
> or should I buy a low speed 7" sander/polisher?
>
> Thanks,
> George