How steep is the learning curve with a Flex?

It's not hard to learn to use the Flex 3401, it's all about if you don't mind the "pulling" feel of it. As a matter of fact, if you are a novice and keep the pad flat with the 3401, you will get better results than a novice who picked up a PC. Why? With the forced rotation of the 3401, you're getting CONSISTENT pad rotation, no matter how much are how little pressure you apply. More consistent pad rotation = better, faster results. I haven't found a pad to use with the 3401 that makes it enjoyable to use the machine. The 5" hybrid pads are OK, but they're too small. I just ordered some 6.5" LC Hi-Gloss pads to try with it. I'm really hoping the soft blue "rebound" foam will smoothen things out. I think it will.
 
you will appreciate the forced rotation in small areas when you go down to a 4 inch pad.
 
i just tested mine out (after reading through the manual and lubing the felt ring) on the lid to my tool box, i wasn't looking for insane results, just getting a feel for the tool. i used an orange compounding pad from harbor freight (6.5") and some UC and after a few passes the top of the box looked 1000x better. not all swirls/scratches were eliminated, i would say about 85 to 90% of the defects were gone, i used it on a speed of 5, next test/learning project will be the rest of my dad's f350, i cant wait to get the lc backing plate set for it.
 
Can someone provide a link to the Hybrid pads? I can't find them on Autogeek...
 
Not a link but the path through the menus

Home > Shop By Brand > Lake Country Buffing Pads > Lake Country Hybrid Power Finish Ultra Performance Pad System

Jim
 
So the orang hybrid & say with the Meg's 101, can provide a cut and finishing polish?
 
Put my new flex orbital to work today! That machine can do some major correction. Still learning of course and I never thought I would say this. I am impressed and still in schock! Phenomenal!!! Use ear protection its LOUD!!! The priest next door came over because he could see the mirror reflection coming from the car! I took every flaw out of my show car. Marks and scratches I couldnt dream of moving with a rotary. Glad I didnt by any junk. Three cheers for the flex ROTARY!! I thank Mike P for his great you tube. I went right to work as soon as the machine arrived. Now there is no excuse for anyone who cant use a rotary. Thanks Autogeek! PS Sorry about where I placed this review. Please move it to the proper thread. Thanks again!
 
My first machine polisher is scheduled to arrive sometime on Monday, 6/10. I bought the Flex 3401 after a few years of being "on the fence" about the purchase. I just can't hand polish anymore due to a serious injury. I most likely went overboard buying the Flex for our two cars but I figured the machine will help me complete the job quicker. I'm in no rush but after a bit I'm worn out.
I'm pretty excited about using the Flex and can't wait to see how my Silverado looks after I'm done.
 
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.
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So the flex is not a DA?
 
I reside in Australia and we run on 220-240 volts here. Can anyone tell me if there is a switch in the Flex 3401 to change from 120 volts to 220/230 or 240 volts. Then I just have to change the plug which is no problem. Seems this polisher is the best around.
It would be great if the whole world would use the same voltage and plug configeration.
 
cranster63 said:
I reside in Australia and we run on 220-240 volts here. Can anyone tell me if there is a switch in the Flex 3401 to change from 120 volts to 220/230 or 240 volts. .
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Why not get the export model of the flex which comes with 230v configuration as standard. I havent seen any switch on the flex that my friend owns.

Sent from my GT-N7000 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
 
masterpartha said:
Why not get the export model of the flex which comes with 230v configuration as standard. I havent seen any switch on the flex that my friend owns.

Sent from my GT-N7000 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
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After posting my question I did see the 'Import Model' available, but it's an extra $80 which I would like to save if it's just a matter of flicking a switch. Many electrical powered products come with a voltage switch, (some visible, others internal) so users all over the world can select the voltage according to their usage. It's usually set by the manufacturer or importer in your country. I am hoping there is a switch somewhere on the Flex as it is a German product and I think they use 230 volts there.
 
cranster63 said:
After posting my question I did see the 'Import Model' available, but it's an extra $80 which I would like to save if it's just a matter of flicking a switch. Many electrical powered products come with a voltage switch, (some visible, others internal) so users all over the world can select the voltage according to their usage. It's usually set by the manufacturer or importer in your country. I am hoping there is a switch somewhere on the Flex as it is a German product and I think they use 230 volts there.
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Oh wow if this is true, Im eagerly looking forward to this. $80 in savings and I can order a lot of stuff in that amount.

You're correct about the Euro and UK machines are 230v rated.

I think Flex should have a distributor in Australia.

Sent from my GT-N7000 using Tapatalk 4 Beta
 
Just used it for the first time. I watched the mike Phillips how to videos for it on YouTube. Piece of cake. Get the 5" lc hybrid pads and the lc flex backing plates. They are made for each other (literally)
 
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