Low Profile LC HT 5.5 pads on a 3401?

[stibuki]

I've got a bunch of brand new LC Hydro Tech 5.5 Low Profile pads that I want to use up on a job tomorrow. Going to use the 4 3/8 BP with my 3401. Looking for some feed back. Anyone try this combo before? Really just wondering if they are going to be to grabby and walk around allot? I usually reserve the 5.5 LP's for my PCXP.

 

[stibuki]

72 views and no replies! Nobody out there tried this combination before?

 

[tuscarora dave]

I've tried that pad size (not HT though) on that polisher with that backing plate and it goes as smooth as butter. No worries.

 

[snowking724]

I've used those pads with the standard backing plate, no need to waste time changing if you don't have to, with no issues. Have you used the Flex prior to this detail? I ask because there is a short learning curve and I wouldn't recommend it on a customers.

 

[stibuki]

I've tried that pad size (not HT though) on that polisher with that backing plate and it goes as smooth as butter. No worries.

Thanks for the reply. I have also used a 5.5" pad on a 3401 before just not the Hydro Tech low profile. I know that the low profile 7/8 pads in general have more bite on a PC compaired to a 1.25 pad so my concern is with forced rotation that they don't walk to much and give me a workout.

 

[stibuki]

I've used those pads with the standard backing plate, no need to waste time changing if you don't have to, with no issues. Have you used the Flex prior to this detail? I ask because there is a short learning curve and I wouldn't recommend it on a customers.

Thanks snowking...

So you have used the low profile version with no issues correct?

Yes have used my 3401 on a few jobs so far mostly with a 6.5" pad. I like to use the smaller backing plate opposed to the standard BP with a 5.5" pad as it leaves a little room for error. The standard BP just about comes out to the edge of a 5.5" pad and I just don't want to smack the BP into anything.

Learning curve? I could be wrong but it seems to me that other than the usual with using any DA keeping the pad level on a 3401 is key or you will get hell of a workout! Open to any tips since the 3401 is relatively new to me. Been using various DA's for years but no pro as it's still a hobby for me.

 

[snowking724]

That's about it, keeping the pad level. I had a buddy at the house who has used his PC a few times and he was a little worried but I kinda pushed him to use the Flex. He started off pretty slow thinking it would walk all over the place but after maybe 2 sections he felt pretty comfortable. It's all about controlling the machine and not vice versa.

 

[stibuki]

That's about it, keeping the pad level. I had a buddy at the house who has used his PC a few times and he was a little worried but I kinda pushed him to use the Flex. He started off pretty slow thinking it would walk all over the place but after maybe 2 sections he felt pretty comfortable. It's all about controlling the machine and not vice versa.

Yep, it sure does reward good technique.

My only two real complaint is that it could be a little bit lighter as after a while it gets heavy doing vertical panels. I guess on the other hand due to the weight it also requires less downward pressure on horizontal panels.

 

[addysdaddy]

Thanks for the reply. I have also used a 5.5" pad on a 3401 before just not the Hydro Tech low profile. I know that the low profile 7/8 pads in general have more bite on a PC compaired to a 1.25 pad so my concern is with forced rotation that they don't walk to much and give me a workout.

This is my concern as well - Mike P. suggests not using the 7/8" pads at all on the Flex. I'm soooo confused.

 

[Nick McKees37]

This backing plate is ideal for 5.5" pads on a 3401.

Technically all 5.5" LC pads are low-profile in their design. You do NOT want to use the 5.5" pads on the 3401's factory 5.5" backing plate.

 

[addysdaddy]

So as discussed, ok to use 5.5" HT pads with the Flex 4 3/8" backing plate. This obviously greatly expands my pad lineup from the three hybrid options that I'm also purchasing. Thanks Nick.