Guitar Buffing Arbor

I should never have waited so long to get this buffer, I got it less the motor as I had one that worked and it only took 30 minutes to get hooked up and running. If you don't have a good motor spend the 100.00 and get the one that comes with the buffer. One thing you should know if you have been using a smaller buffer, it is still a good idea to take your time with this one even if it is larger it can still keep you on your toes. Very nice product.

Received the kit as a Christmas gift. I built the base as directed and mounted the platform on a 3X3" piece of alder, so I could utilize my shop stand and angle vice when I needed the buffer. I have my stand mounted to the concrete floor in my garage. It worked perfectly!

One suggestion that I have for either Stewmac or folks purchasing this unit:
The on/off switch is located where you have to reach over the arbor. I don't see that as being completely safe. To combat this, I purchased a floor switch to activate the unit.

Additionally, I would install thrust bearings on the shaft to prevent the possibility of the shaft "walking" either direction, creating an imbalance of weight/length of the shaft.

Wonderful tool and I enjoy the results!

The first time I used this tool, it was readily apparent that it was designed for use on guitars. I got great results the right from the start, and saved hours of work and wear and tear on my shoulders. Even at this price, it's an excellent value. Its only shortcoming was the drive belt.

I have the older buffing arbour which is amazing and im sure the new one is just as good. A great addition to our workshop and saves alot of elbow grease.
Check out the custom 'MOD' Rickenbacker results as attached.

Good setup.

I have had The Stewart MacConald Buffing Arbor in our violin shop for a few weeks now, and I love it. I had a bad experience with a buffing arbor several years ago, and avioded using one again, but this piece of equipment is different. It is well constructed, the speed is perfect for buffing finishes, and it cuts our time on rental instrument refinishes by hours.
My only suggestions have been noted by other reviewers: A few bolts and nuts to secure the outfit would be a low cost addition to complete what is needed, and a better system for tensioning the drive belt would help. Over all I am very pleased!

After yearning for this buffer for literally 3 years, I finally pulled the trigger and bought the entire kit. They are a little pricey (thus my long wait) but there is NO substitute for the quality and design. I searched for hours trying to find a cheaper alternative. Save your time; there isn't one.
Took a few hours to build a good stand (included base template is a "suggestion"), fired it up and buffed out 3 bodies and necks immediately.
WOW! I'd been using the StewMac foam buffing pads up to this point (they are absolutely fine to use and will give a great finish if used correctly, and assuming the piece is wet sanded to 2000 grit), and I was stunned by the ease and results that the buffing arbor gave me. Better than showroom finish in very little time.
Directions suggest that wet sanding to 800 grit is sufficient. My own experience is that taking it to 1000 grit gives a better result.
All in all, a great time saver and superior results. Wish I'd bought it 3 years ago!

I purchased the complete outfit, the differences between the Stewmac Outfit and the other available brand is what sold me. Setup was easy. I made the mounting base for the buffer with the free plan from Stewmac, I've only buffed a few necks to date with it. Got some bodies still gassing off but they will be ready soon. What a time saver and the Menzerna compounds are fantastic, I highly recommend this outfit.

Great product! Setup was a breeze and all parts fit and function well. Makes buffing easy and the results are superb. Warnings about wearing a mask and holding the piece firmly are well worth heeding.

Wow! Why did I wait so long? It was a big chunk of money. But, what a finish! I've built a lot of guitars and a pro finish is always the toughest part. First use of the buffer and I had my best finish ever, and it was easy and fun. Very glad I got it.