How steep is the learning curve with a Flex?

NLS8520

NLS8520

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I have recently purchased a 7424xp and I am fairly new to machine polishing. I have been watching video with the Flex and it seems a more capable, and efficient machine. Also seem to require fewer passes to achieve the same results as the PC. So my questions would be how simple is the machine to use? and what are the potential risks of damage with the machine if used incorrectly during my learning phase? Thanks!
 
A few years ago when I was considering moving to a DA polisher I had pros and cons for the 7424XP, GG6 and 3401. It spent around 2 months considering which polisher is right for me. Based on everything I had read here on AGO as well as the product descriptions elsewhere I came to the conclusion that the 3401 was a better tool for me. I reasoned that:

a) I learn tools really quickly having spent quite a long time working on numerous home improvement projects; using similar tools to that of a DA polisher. I am a "measure twice, cut once" type of person. The odds of me being naive and burning through paint while not realizing it was not likely

b) the risk I would master a polisher without forced rotation was very high, and I would likely move to a Flex as my second unit within the first 5 years. I didn't want to end up having two DA polishers simply because I didn't take the chance with he 3401 on my first purchase

c) The quality of the Flex clearly indicated the premium price was worth it; weight, balance, ergonomics, etc...

d) I owned a Volkswagen; hence hard paint, and wanted to ensure I had tools and products that would save me time and money long-term. I measure total cost of ownership in almost everything I purchase.

e) I didn't like the fact that the Flex had a short warranty compared to a GG6; and figured the money I did not spend by having two DA polishers would be "saved" or "unspent", yet budgeted for one repair within the first 5 years. That turns out to be less than $40 per year I carry forward for a repair; very manageable.

f) Being that this is just a hobby for me, I didn't see the need to ever have a rotary, and the Flex 3401 inches closer to rotary strength when compared to a 7424XP or GG6.

All-in-all, after 2 sessions with the Flex I knew I made the right decision. On the third session I tried removing some light swirling on the hood of my VW; so I had M105/Orange with the Flex on speed 5 1/2. I was applying way more than 15lbs of pressure at one point and I couldn't make "a dent" in removing any of them. It was at that point that I learned that the Flex alone would not "burn through hard paint" without very conscious thought and the right pad and product.
 
I would say you'll be comfortable with the unit after doing your hood and it will become an old friend at the beginning of the second full detail. Wonderful machine - no regrets here. Let me suggest the LC hybrid pad system which were made specifically for the machine.
 
addysdaddy said:
I would say you'll be comfortable with the unit after doing your hood and it will become an old friend at the beginning of the second full detail. Wonderful machine - no regrets here. Let me suggest the LC hybrid pad system which were made specifically for the machine.
Click to expand...

:iagree: Well said! :props:
 
After you buff out the front clip of the average car you'll have the hang of how to use the tool.

The key is to hold the pad flat to the surface.

I can't recommend enough the 4" backing plate for the Flex 3401 and the 5" Hybrid Pads. With the combination of the 4" backing plate and the 5" Hybrid pads plus the factory backing plate and 6.5" pads you can tackle just about any detailing project at about as fast as the job can be correctly performed.


I have a section on the Flex 34001 in my articles list and also a chapter in my new how-to book...



Mike Phillips’ The Complete Guide to a Show Car Shine Paperback Book

Mike Phillips’ The Complete Guide to a Show Car Shine
E-book


From my article list...



New 5" pads for 4" Backing Plate on Flex 3401

New 4" and 6" Backing Plates for Flex 3401



And this DVD covers both the Flex 3401 and the Flex PE14


DVD - How To Use the Flex 3401 & PE14 Rotary Buffer


Had a guy in Egypt asking me about how to use these two tools today on Facebook and I thought I had created a thread for this new DVD but after a little searching I couldn't find it?


Here's a new DVD that goes over how to use the Flex 3401 and the Flex PE14 as well as the Flex 3403.



How To Properly Use Flex Polishers DVD

FlexDVDwithMikePhillips.jpg




It's very detailed starting with showing what comes in the box as well as exactly how these tools work and how to use them to remove swirls, scratches, oxidation and water spots and even to machine apply your wax or paint sealant.

For the video we used a two black Mercedes-Benz cars both with Ceramiclear paint systems.

FlexVideo002.jpg




Our in-house video genius did some INCREDIBLE video work to show you how all the popular tools work while I compared and contrast the differences.

FlexVideo003.jpg


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Here's one of the ideas Yancy came up with and that was to place black arrows on white pads...


FlexVideo011.jpg



Then he set up a GoPro Camera to film the action of the tools...

FlexVideo012.jpg


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Then I ran the tools...

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And then you'll see the pads in action using slow-motion video capture...

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But that's not all...
the 2006 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG was COMPLETELY swirled out and we show you step-by-step how to use both tools to completely remove the swirls and finish out hologram-free.


Ceramiclear black paint filled with swirls...

FlexVideo007.jpg




Half and half showing the before and after difference...

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Now the metallic flake *pops*

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And everything is shot in High Definition!

FlexVideo001.jpg




New to machine polishing?
If you're wondering which type of tool is best for you this video will help you to both make and solidify your decision.


New to Rotary Buffers
If you're new to rotary buffers there's a lot of tips and techniques for how to use a rotary buffer in this video.


New to the Flex 3401
If you're new to the Flex 3401 there are a lot of tips and techniques for how to use a Flex 3401

Plus it's a fun and thanks to Yancy, professional quality DVD that the Flex Tool Company uses for trade shows and played continuously in there booth at SEMA this years.


And the price can't be best...



So check it out on Autogeek.net


How To Properly Use Flex Polishers DVD

FlexDVDwithMikePhillips.jpg




:xyxthumbs:
 
Great advice all.

OP, if you get on the 3401 the best pads for this machine are the 5" hybrids without a doubt. Also the BlackFire duo, Wolfgang duo, and Menzerna polishes work extremely well with the above setup.

That's my preferred way of using this machine.

-Mike
 
Not at all. Just a few minutes and you'll get the hang of it.

The only time I noticed the tool was harder to control was when I was working on the heavily oxidized single stage paint on my old truck and the pad loaded up. I've worked on several base coat/clear coats paints and control was never an issue.
 
I don't have extensive time with one but it was only a matter of minutes to get a feel for it. A black major mess of a Mercedes trunk lid that laughed at a PC was done to perfection in a very short time using Menzerna and the Flex. Had I decided to continue with detailing I would most certainly have one.
 
RTexasF said:
I don't have extensive time with one but it was only a matter of minutes to get a feel for it. A black major mess of a Mercedes trunk lid that laughed at a PC was done to perfection in a very short time using Menzerna and the Flex. Had I decided to continue with detailing I would most certainly have one.
Click to expand...

Agreed.

The 3401, FG400, and orange or yellow cutting pads is a defect killing combo. Not to mention you could stand on top of a Flex and it will still rotate. Try that with a traditional D/A.
 
That was some response Mike! thank you for taking the time to reply.
 
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just preference, people dont like the way it pulls (since its forced rotation) especially if all you ever used was a standard DA. I personally love my 3401 and would not trade it for anything. even though at time i go to my Megs DA cause i have different BP to each machine and dont wanna be swapping out the BP
 
I will trade the "walking" or "pulling" over the noise and wobble of a typical RO DA polisher. As time goes by anyone that uses the 3401 will eventually get the hang of it. In the begining I had a difficult time picking the right amount of pressure so It does not wander or walk but now i can do the yo-yo method and get great results.
 
Theo_Auto_Fines said:
I will trade the "walking" or "pulling" over the noise and wobble of a typical RO DA polisher. As time goes by anyone that uses the 3401 will eventually get the hang of it. In the begining I had a difficult time picking the right amount of pressure so It does not wander or walk but now i can do the yo-yo method and get great results.
Click to expand...

Yo-Yo method? I found the flex to be less tiring in the end compared to the DA's prior to the Rupes .
 
I was comfortable with the flex after 1 car but it took a few before I really liked it. Now I don't know how I did without it

Recently got a Rupes but I still will reach for the flex depending on the task at hand. Feels smooth with a lot of power. And although I don't make a practice of it, I can control it with 2 thumbs if I like. All about holding the pad flat like MP said.
 
Just got my flex 3401 and used it yesterday. It didn't take long for me to get used to. Prior to the flex all I was using was a PC. If anything I regret not getting this machine sooner!
 
PT920 said:
Just got my flex 3401 and used it yesterday. It didn't take long for me to get used to. Prior to the flex all I was using was a PC. If anything I regret not getting this machine sooner!
Click to expand...

Amen! The more I use mine, the more I love it. Fantastic machine.
 
ugh i just can't wait to try mine out, i compounded the hood and fenders on my dad's 2002 f-350 with the 7424xp and although they came out decent (using ultimate compound) i want to see how they will look with some farecla fast track or g10 on a polishing pad with the flex.
 
I gotta stay away from this thread. I need to save money... Been buying too much from auto geek lately...
 
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