Dumb Question about a RUPES

Andr3wilson

Andr3wilson

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Hey guys!

So, I'm sure as pretty much everyone has seen on the Forum for the last few months, RUPES topics have been popping up left, right and centre. Pardon me for adding another, but I have some burning questions on my mind!

These are very basic/dumb questions about this machine, but it will really help me decide if it is worth it and also why it is raved about.

1. Is this machine a free floating spindle like a PC/GG or is it direct drive like a Flex?

2. How does the large throw help?

3. At 500W, how does it correct faster to the PC? Wouldn't the GG3 with its 850W motor be faster? Considering it is covering more area and with a larger pad, would this make it slower to correct?

4. Whats the difference between the LHR21ES and the LHR15ES and which is better?

5. My current lineup is PE14, 3401, and a PC, what will the RUPES replace?

6. Side by side reviews show the 3401 corrects faster than the RUPES, why is the RUPES considered better still?

7. Should I make the plunge for one?

8. Which pads work best with this machine?

Thanks guys!
 
While I cannot answer all of your questions, I do have a few thoughts on the Rupes polishers. I own the 21ES, use it with LC HT pads (thin profile) and mainly as of late, Menzerna FG400. This thing corrects like no other machine I have ever used. I also have a Makita 9227c, and PC 7424XP. I haven't plugged either of those other polishers in since taking delivery of the Rupes. I feel that I should note, I do not own, nor have used the Flex 3401 however. From the sounds of it though, the 3401 and Rupes have the closest comparisons from everything I have read.
 
Will try to give you some info.

1) Not direct drive. It is RO.
2) Read the 40 page Kevin Brown article on RO @ BuffDaddy
3) Power is NOT the most important thing, KB's article goes into detail regarding HOW power is translated into the paint.
4) 21 - 6 inch setup, so more for bulk work/bodyshop (as intended). 15 - 5inch setup so it was more meant for finesse detailing work.
5) Replaces your 3401, and probably PE14.
6) Very debatable depending on your setup, skill, and work involved.
7) Ask some industry people what their results are.
8) 21 is the best bet, so if you have 6 inch pads that will work, if you have more 5 inch pads get a 5inch BP.

#1 rule is to use something you prefer and get you results. I'll be biased and suggest you take a look at how some VERY notable paint correction specialists have changed their setup because of this machine. Also take note Kevin Brown @ Buff Daddy is the total authority on this machine, so I suggest you email for more info.
 
Kevin has a very nice article on Autopia.org but I won't link it here because of rules.
 
Andr3wilson said:
6. Side by side reviews show the 3401 corrects faster than the RUPES, why is the RUPES considered better still?
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I've only seen two side by side reviews. One was against a GG6 where the RUPES clearly won. Same products and pads were used on both. The one comparing it to a 3401 was done using different pads and products on both machines and not a fair comparison IMO. If there is another one out there please Pm me a link... I'd love to read it.

My LHR15 should be here Saturday. Purchased through Kevin. This guy is awesome and would drop everything to talk and explain things to any questions you might have. He had a lot of patience with all my questions. Exchanged some detailing stories.

TrKent was very helpful answering some of my questions as well. He owns all 3 machines.

I've had quite a few machines. W849x (sold), PE-14, 3401 (sold), PC.... so I'm really looking forward to see where this thing fits into the mix. Thought is the PC will always have a 3" BP, LHR15 for a majority of the work and the PE-14 when I need some heavy wool action or headlights.

Be sure to let everyone know what you decide to do. :xyxthumbs:
 
MF pads are working great (I've read).

I'm debating on getting the 15, maybe next month.
 
I would figure out of all people, you Andrew would know about Rupes DA's, considering you like to use "high" end products like Swissvax.

The only reason Rupes is becoming popular right now, is because a specific high end detailer is promoting it.

Its not the machine that makes you great, its your set of skills & knowledge.
 
Rsurfer said:
Unless your a machine addict, why would you need another machine?
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Yeaa I know, honestly I see each tool to be very specific and have an intended purpose. This would probably trade out my 3401. The Flex is great, but the amount of energy put into controlling it is frustrating me a little; considering how much it costs. Also I find it doesn't work so well with my pad cleaner. Im keeping the PE14 just because its great when you need the power. PC is basically a wax spreader and the pad cleaner machine.

Thanks for the replies guys! This has given me quite a bit of feedback, and I will probably get into contact with Kevin sometime this weekend.

If I find the thread with the comparison to the 3401, I'll post it.

Once again Thanks!
 
Andr3wilson said:
The Flex is great, but the amount of energy put into controlling it is frustrating me a little
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^This... everyone will say if the 3401 is walking on you then you're just not keeping the pad flat. The best was with LC 4" BP and 5" hybrid pads, but I still did not look forward to using it. Cars are not completely flat and have lots of curves. I was able to try the RUPES at the mobile tech expo and was pretty amazed. Went home put the 3401 on Craigslist, sold it a couple days later and here I am days away from delivery of the LHR15.
 
CM8 6MT said:
I would figure out of all people, you Andrew would know about Rupes DA's, considering you like to use "high" end products like Swissvax.

The only reason Rupes is becoming popular right now, is because a specific high end detailer is promoting it.

Its not the machine that makes you great, its your set of skills & knowledge.
Click to expand...

+1
on skills and knowledge. could not agree more.
 
CM8 6MT said:
I would figure out of all people, you Andrew would know about Rupes DA's, considering you like to use "high" end products like Swissvax.

The only reason Rupes is becoming popular right now, is because a specific high end detailer is promoting it.

Its not the machine that makes you great, its your set of skills & knowledge.
Click to expand...

Lol thanks! I actually use a wide variety of products that perform the best. quite a bit of SV stuff is a gimmick to me. If you are ever up for a trade I could send you something to show you the magic?

g26er said:
^This... everyone will say if the 3401 is walking on you then you're just not keeping the pad flat. The best was with LC 4" BP and 5" hybrid pads, but I still did not look forward to using it. Cars are not completely flat and have lots of curves.
Click to expand...

Very true! I am actually using the flat 5.5'' Constant pressure pads with it. I am a little meh with the BP on the flex too, but you dont have much choice.
 
I find that using the 5 inch hybrids on the 3401 returns very little walk if any and the power of machine is more than enough for whatever you may throw at it.

Put a RUPES and 3401 side by side on complex curved panels and with enough pressure you will slow down the RUPES or may even stop it unlike the 3401 which will continue its speed no matter what pressure you inflict upon it.

Just my opinions though
 
CM8 6MT said:
I would figure out of all people, you Andrew would know about Rupes DA's, considering you like to use "high" end products like Swissvax.

The only reason Rupes is becoming popular right now, is because a specific high end detailer is promoting it.

Its not the machine that makes you great, its your set of skills & knowledge.
Click to expand...

I don't agree with that statement at all. That person may know a lot about marketing and has definitely added to the craze, but the Rupes is popular because of one man in particular, and that's Kevin Brown! It's his research, knowledge and willingness to help the detailing industry that makes this tool what it is. People know that when Kevin talks highly about something it's not about making a sale and people trust what he says. They know he's done his homework and that it's about sharing, teaching, and helping other detailers understand how and why things work! Where do you think the DA be would now if it weren't for the KBM method? I would hope you've read some of the many great articles Kevin has posted, if not, you should. What upsets me is that I've seen numerous people buy the tool from that other person and then they end up calling or email Kevin questions about it or the washer mod, which Kevin came up with. This tool is also popular because many of the top detailers in the US had a chance to see it and try it during the 2011 SEMA show, and most of us knew Kevin was trying to bring it to the US long before anything was publicly posted about it.
 
smack said:
I find that using the 5 inch hybrids on the 3401 returns very little walk if any and the power of machine is more than enough for whatever you may throw at it.
Click to expand...
Throw some MF pads on it. Worthless...
 
Chad, that's exactly why I bought mine from Kevin. I'm hoping to use mine for the first time on Saturday.


Sent from my iPhone 5 using Tapatalk
 
FivePoint.0 said:
Throw some MF pads on it. Worthless...
Click to expand...

I did and found that combo a pain to control and operate and the results were less than stellar. I find that the orange hybrid heavy cutting pad with FG400 is an incredible defect killing combo with the ability to finish out very very well considering how aggressive the two are.
 
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