Flex vs. DA vs. rotary

Shane731

Shane731

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Will somebody please explain to me how the Flex differs from both a dual action polisher and a rotary? I understand it falls in the middle (DA - Flex - rotary) but I don't understand just how it's different. Thanks!
 
From what I understand the Flex is forced rotation, so the pad will not stop spinning like a normal DA does when the pad isn't laying flat, too much pressure etc. A DA makes the motions of a human hand, not perfect circles, while an ORbital spins solely in circular motions.
 
Does a Flex have any of the dangers that a rotary has? Meaning, do you have to be afraid of burning the paint or anything like that?
 
Well yes and no. It's much safer than a rotary in that it has a DA motion, but the direct drive means it won't stop spinning even under high load. It is a great tool that I couldn't recommend more. :xyxthumbs:
 
A4 1.8tqm said:
Well yes and no. It's much safer than a rotary in that it has a DA motion, but the direct drive means it won't stop spinning even under high load. It is a great tool that I couldn't recommend more. :xyxthumbs:
Click to expand...

As I'm sure you know... :iagree:
 
What are the pros and cons of a Flex vs. a DA? I'm thinking of potentially upgrading to a Flex 3401 VRG in the near future, and wondered what I would be gaining by doing so.
 
Pros:
Smoother operation (less vibration)
Better controls and better placed controls (more enjoyable experience)
Faster correction

Cons:
Unable to use pads smaller then 4"
To use pads smaller then 5.5" you have to purchase the edge adapter and a few 4" edge pads

You could just use your existing DA for these smaller areas or buy the edge adapter.
 
Corey, would you say it is definitely worth it to upgrade to the Flex?


Also, I typically use 5.5 inch pads anyway, so that's not a concern. And I'd probably just use my DA with the 4 inch pads, so no worries there either.
 
For me in my personal opinion there is absolutely no question that it is worth it. Keep in mind that I have only used the Griots and the Flex 3401.
I love polishing with my Flex. I did not enjoy polishing with the GG
 
I've learned that ANY polisher can easily burn edges of panels. However, when not working along the edges, you would really have to TRY to burn the paint with the Flex 3401. If you use common sense, the Flex is just as safe as a normal DA, just more effective. With a rotary, if you use common sense, you still shouldn't burn the paint. However, it's still much easier to burn the paint with a rotary compared to the Flex 3401 or any DA.
 
Shane. Come to Cookeville and try mine out. I've got a PC, Cyclo, Flex DA, and rotary.
 
I have the Flex, the Makita Rotary and the Porter-cable Dual Action machines. The Flex is my favorite and all you would really need if you were doing anything but professional work with serious paint-correction needs.

It cuts in about half the time of the PC (not quite), extremely safe unless you just abuse something, but you would have to be an idiot (no offense to those that will say it is dangerous) to hurt your paint or damage your car in any way. If you are careful at all, there is very little danger. You can use Meg Ultimate Compound and no one would be able to tell you didn't use a rotary unless they are used to seeing swirl marks.

I used the PC for applying wax, but now I use the Flex for that so I could sell it. However, if I run into overspray, serious scratches or (most recently) a single-stage paint on an older car that was a mess, I use the Makita. The client watches me take the scratch out or remove the overspray (that the dealer said couldn't be done) and they think its magic. (Although I think their are better detailers than myself). So the Rotary is still king, but the Flex is the Prom Queen in terms of how much you want to use it...

The great thing about the Flex is that it doesn't leave swirl marks or holograms -- in fact when I first got it, I would remove swirls / holograms for high-end customers that had just had their car detailed at the dealership (always paid over $225 at the dealership). When I got into serious paint correction, I would always use the Flex on black paint to remove my swirl marks from the rotary (I hate to admit I needed to do that, but I hate when the paint is not perfect). Now I don't need it because I use M205 at 900 rpm and move it ever so slowly so I don't have that issue anymore.

My advice (not that it matters) is GET THE FLEX! You will not be sorry....
 
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