Anyone else hate their Flex 3401?

FinishingTouchA

FinishingTouchA

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So I've had my Rupes 21 for 2 years, got the Flex 4 months ago and still reach for the Rupes almost every time. In every single situation the Rupes cuts faster and finishes better. Maybe I'm just so used to the Rupes that I know how to keep it spinning even in concave sections. The only thing I use the Flex for is RVs and even then I'd rather use my rotary.

Anyone else have a similar experience?
Thinking about selling the 3401 and getting a Rupes 15...
 
Interesting. I'm the complete opposite. Almost always reach for my Flex 1st. Let my Rupes rest unless on going to use on a large flat surface.
 
FinishingTouchA said:
So I've had my Rupes 21 for 2 years, got the Flex 4 months ago and still reach for the Rupes almost every time. In every single situation the Rupes cuts faster and finishes better. Maybe I'm just so used to the Rupes that I know how to keep it spinning even in concave sections. The only thing I use the Flex for is RVs and even then I'd rather use my rotary.

Anyone else have a similar experience?
Thinking about selling the 3401 and getting a Rupes 15...
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Get a G21 or G15. I have the the Rupes LHR 15 and the new G21, I like the new G21 wayyyyyy better.
 
Im with OP. Keep reaching for my 21. I keep trying to get the hang of the 3401, but can never get it to cut or finish like the 21. How do you get the 3401 to cut? Also appreciate the smoothness of the 21.
 
7.3powerstroke said:
Im with OP. Keep reaching for my 21. I keep trying to get the hang of the 3401, but can never get it to cut or finish like the 21. How do you get the 3401 to cut? Also appreciate the smoothness of the 21.
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Answer for how to get the 3401 to cut...SMACK method via Mike@DedicatedPerfection
http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum...rning-3401-menzerna-products-hybrid-pads.html

Keys to success: Great... 1) tool (Flex 3401), 2) products (Menzerna w/LC Hybrid pads) & 3) technique (SMACK)!

And I LOVE my Flex 3401! "This is my polisher. There are many like it, but this one is mine..." :)
 
Never tried a Rupes but I do not like how quickly the Flex gets really hot. I have lubed the felt ring but even with just the weight of the machine, it gets really hot!

Love it though. I also have a GG6 and rarely use it nowadays.
 
Hey if you don't like your Flex are you going to put it up for sale? I would be more than happy to take it off your hands.
 
Im in the market for a new flex , I saw one recently on craigs list says brand new in box. My question is are there any seals or factory tape on the box so I know its 100%new and not used and cleaned up and just put back in the box and there calling it new.Anything I could look for so I know its not a return item etc. When I purchased a meguiars da a while back there was a circle shaped piece of tape on the box basically showing it was sealed from factory. Any help would be appreciated. TY
 
Kamakaz1961 said:
Hey if you don't like your Flex are you going to put it up for sale? I would be more than happy to take it off your hands.
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Same here. Would be nice to have one set up for 5" and one for 6.5"
 
7.3powerstroke said:
.... How do you get the 3401 to cut?
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Assuming it's plugged into the wall outlet, has a pad on it, and that pad has compound on it.... squeeze the little black trigger and that puppy will cut all day. :laughing:


But seriously...
The Flex doesn't need to run near as fast as any Rupes machine to cut, and the weight of the machine alone means it'll cut.

Now of course the Rupes does have to run at higher speeds, but weighs less, and is less critical to handle correctly, (although you have to constantly make sure it doesn't have TOO much weight on the pad or it'll stop completely). The Flex however you can stand up on it's edge and get into concave panels, or over a convex panel, doesn't matter. Honestly I've never run mine any faster than 4.5 and it'll cut (and finish) like crazy. :dblthumb2:
 
cardaddy said:
Assuming it's plugged into the wall outlet, has a pad on it, and that pad has compound on it.... squeeze the little black trigger and that puppy will cut all day. :laughing:


But seriously...
The Flex doesn't need to run near as fast as any Rupes machine to cut, and the weight of the machine alone means it'll cut.

Now of course the Rupes does have to run at higher speeds, but weighs less, and is less critical to handle correctly, (although you have to constantly make sure it doesn't have TOO much weight on the pad or it'll stop completely). The Flex however you can stand up on it's edge and get into concave panels, or over a convex panel, doesn't matter. Honestly I've never run mine any faster than 4.5 and it'll cut (and finish) like crazy. :dblthumb2:
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+1

The Flex is a tank. Couldn't hate it if I tried.
 
FinishingTouchA said:
Really? Any reasons in particular?
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Number of reasons, more ergonomic, more power, I like the overall design better. Lifetime warranty. I haven't used my Rupes LHR 15 in about a year and a half. I have a Duetto and and Mini. When I need the larger machine I'm reaching for my G21. Also have the 5" backing plate for it too.

The GG21/15 new pads are awesome too, the machine runs really smooth with them and corrects quickly. I haven't had the opportunity to try out the products yet but am looking forward to it. Based upon the job they did at the recent detailing academy Mike posted of the classic Chevelle they corrected with the BOSS, it is an incredible system.
 
I picked up a Flex a few weeks ago and I have to say I'm having mixed feelings about it so far. I certainly don't hate it, but I still prefer the rotary over the 3401. It corrects faster and is way smoother and (IMO) easier to control. I've never used a Rupes, but wouldn't mind having a mini!!
 
Just ordered all the hybrid pads and menzerna SF4000 (already have fg400 and love it on the Rupes)

You guys are really good at getting me to spend money lol
 
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