Hitachi SP18VA(H) 11-Amp 7-Inch Variable Speed Disc Sander/Polisher (Discontinued by the Manufacturer)

I purchased this buffer for waxing and compound buffing on fiberglass boats. It's lightweight at 6.2 lbs. and has ample power and speed for many purposes. It features a "slow start" which is helpful when using it at higher RPM's, but it is up to speed almost a bit too quick, so you may feel a slight tug on it from torque as it reaches full speed.. Not a problem though, as this is a common trait of many similar buffers. I had hoped that it came with a side handle as well as the "loop" style handle, which can get in the way when working in tighter spaces, and it takes up more room when storing it in a tool chest. I purchased a side handle separately to attach to it (it's a standard size thread for many brands of these style polishers and sanders). One thing I noticed about the loop handle is that it tends to loosen up after using it for a while, so keep the hex wrench supplied with it nearby, or substitute a lock washer under the retaining bolts instead of the flat washers that come with it Otherwise, it would have been 5 stars because the tool itself seems very good.

I hope it doesnt fail me after 25 years of service like the last one. lol I had bought my first one when I was in high school. 30+ years ago! It didnt get a lot of use in the beginning until I was about 23 when I started using it full time for the same profession. Im 52 now and I actually I still have it and it works great but the cord started to crack. Its retired now but I keep if for a backup. Im going to fix the cord one of these days.I bought a new one because Im out in the field using this so I cant have it fail out on a job. It cant last forever anyway, can it? Anyhoo, the new hums along like the old one. It gets a couple hours of hard polishing use every work day. Love it!

I have used this regularly for over a year and it works great. I mainly use this for buffing cars and wheels and it performs great! The large handle allows for excellent leverage and the different rpm settings are a plus as well. You may find it difficult to get the proper pads for this at a reasonable price for they are hard to find. Go to Harbor Freight for those.

A really great buffing tool to use on your car paint surface. I love to be able to adjust the speed down low so that the paint will not burn. Had problems in the past with other polishers which you could not adjust the speed and had a problem burning paint. Not in the case with this one.

As a weekend detail warrior, The SP18VAH is one bad mother! The weight and torque is fantastic for removing the most stubborn water marks and compounding swirl marks in no time! It is a must have! I highly recommened it. Don't get a Harbor freight polisher , pay for the best. This also has a 5 YEAR WARRANTY! Who can beat that! It's just awesome!

Light Weight & Powerful, like the soft start and the thumb wheel to limit speed. I have used as a sander and as a buffer. I would purchase again.

Not as powerful as I thought.

This is a great polisher. It is powerful and well built with real bearings. Unlike the cheap knockoffs it doesn't vibrate and is much quieter. I use it for boat polishing, and it makes a long job easier.