My technique concerning the 3401, Menzerna products, and Hybrid pads

[GoodToGo1]

No problem. Hopefully I have the chance tomorrow.

Sweet, please pay special attention to the corners and raised panels.

 

[Mike PhillipsMike Phillips is verified member.]

Hi Mike, is there any technique video for the Flex 3401?

This DVD is very complete and also shot in HD


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

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.

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.

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

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

Then I ran the tools...

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

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...

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

Now the metallic flake *pops*

And everything is shot in High Definition!

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

:xyxthumbs:

 

[Mike PhillipsMike Phillips is verified member.]

Here's one on YouTube...


[ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Arn_kVH3BVc&hd=1]Autogeek Phantom Drone Promo 1[/video]

 

[Mike@DedicatedPerfection]

Thanks for following up and adding valuable information Mike.

Those black German beauty queens looks great!

 

[ViGi]

Not knowing the speed capabilities of the machine is a problem. FG400 absolutley does not like to be run above 1200 rpm. This is the source of your dusting.

Thanks Mike I tried again today with low speed, zero dust perfect correction.

I have not put together a video showing my technique. But I can if you would like.

Regards,
Mike

When you have time it could be very helpful, but not the flat surfaces, it`s easy and most people don`t have problem correcting the hood. All videos I saw until now are taped in to flat surfaces does anyone knows a video where are being corrected dificult places.

Here's one on YouTube...


Autogeek Phantom Drone Promo 1

Thanks Mike watched the video, I don`t want to order the DVD, is there any other way just to download or watch.

I really like flex 3401 but when you said in the video you need to keep this machine flat, is it possible to keep 3401 flat in the places that are not flat, is it possible to compleate the car with just flex 3401, I really want even Flex PE 14, If i have this two do I need some GG 3 or I can do tricky places with Flex PE 14 and spot pads.

It was wery easy when I saw before after photos or some videos and I decidet to start working, I ordered some menzerna polishes and some pads, but It`s really hard, maybe I need more machines, I try to finish the car with just one rotary machine and just 5,5 inch pads.

What would you sugest I need more for making my job easier and compleate starting from most importants keeping it simple don`t have to spent a lot.

I have menzerna polishes FG 400, PF 2500, SF 4000 and Power Protect, I don't see problem here.

Wool pad, Hard Pads, Medium Pads all in 150mm.

And one Rotary machine it`s really unknown even for Google but I maneget to get 90% correction with wool pad and fg 400.

What would be the next thing I need most I find dificult to work in all other places beside the flat surfaces.

What I need more flex 3401 or flex PE 14, or
3401 and this rotary that I have to use for spot pads, or I need some GG 3 for dificult places

THANKS THANKS THANKS.

 

[expdetailing]

Hello Mike,
Why do you only use speed 3-4, rather than a higher speed, to perform the cutting? Do you feel their would be more marring or such if you were to cut at a higher speed?

 

[Corey@OptimalDetailing]

Hello Mike,
Why do you only use speed 3-4, rather than a higher speed, to perform the cutting? Do you feel their would be more marring or such if you were to cut at a higher speed?

I am by no means speaking for Mike, although I will gladly give you my $.02 on the subject.

I have tested FG400 at many speeds, along with other Menzerna products with hybrid pad combos. First, higher speeds just aren't necessary with the Flex. The forced rotation helps the correction process on its own and thus requires lower speeds. A lower speed will allow you to work the product longer, which Menzerna products love, due to the lower heat build up on the face of the pad and painted surfaces. This also helps with minimal (or zero) dusting because you are keeping the heat away! I have yet to find a Menzerna product that dusts, cuts, and finishes better at a higher speed vs a lower speed.

I have never noticed any more or less marring from raising the speed, but I have noticed a significant difference in the finish of every Menzerna product i have used after removing polishing residue.

 

[expdetailing]

Thanks for replying.
I am newer at this, and am switching over from a pc to a flex 3401 and a rupes 21 at the same time. Coming from the pc, I always used the logic: faster is better; why go slower? Look at how much paint is left to correct. You better go quicker; there's a deadline to meet!

 

[Mike@DedicatedPerfection]

Thanks Mike I tried again today with low speed, zero dust perfect correction.

Sounds great! Glad to your hear results.

When you have time it could be very helpful, but not the flat surfaces, it`s easy and most people don`t have problem correcting the hood. All videos I saw until now are taped in to flat surfaces does anyone knows a video where are being corrected dificult places.

I wanted to get this done this past Friday but didn't have time. Hopefully I can get it done this week. I will get into a difficult place and capture it.

Is it possible to keep the 3401 flat in the places that are not flat, is it possible to compleate the car with just flex 3401, I really want even Flex PE 14, If i have this two do I need some GG 3 or I can do tricky places with Flex PE 14 and spot pads.

It is possible to keep the 3401 flat across edges and different curves. Just rotate the machine and follow the contour of the panel. Yes you can do 90% of a vehicle with just the 3401. For the last 10% you will need another machine that accepts a smaller 3" pad. The PE14 is perfect for this.

It was wery easy when I saw before after photos or some videos and I decidet to start working, I ordered some menzerna polishes and some pads, but It`s really hard, maybe I need more machines, I try to finish the car with just one rotary machine and just 5,5 inch pads.

What would you sugest I need more for making my job easier and compleate starting from most importants keeping it simple don`t have to spent a lot.

The PE14 and 3401 is a perfect pair together. Compound the paint with the PE and polish with the 3401. These two are the only machines needed.

I have menzerna polishes FG 400, PF 2500, SF 4000 and Power Protect, I don't see problem here.

Wool pad, Hard Pads, Medium Pads all in 150mm.

Perfect.

And one Rotary machine it`s really unknown even for Google but I maneget to get 90% correction with wool pad and fg 400.

What would be the next thing I need most I find dificult to work in all other places beside the flat surfaces.

What I need more flex 3401 or flex PE 14, or
3401 and this rotary that I have to use for spot pads, or I need some GG 3 for dificult places

THANKS THANKS THANKS.

See above. The Flex duo is all thats needed.

Hello Mike,
Why do you only use speed 3-4, rather than a higher speed, to perform the cutting? Do you feel their would be more marring or such if you were to cut at a higher speed?

Hi,

I use the slower speed of 3-4 for compounding with FG400 as it behave much better than at the higher speeds such as 5-6. IME, when running FG400 at speed 6, I can achieve two passes before it gums up and dusts like crazy making useless. Also on the bottle of FG400, it mentions rotary speed of 900-1200.

I am by no means speaking for Mike, although I will gladly give you my $.02 on the subject.

I have tested FG400 at many speeds, along with other Menzerna products with hybrid pad combos. First, higher speeds just aren't necessary with the Flex. The forced rotation helps the correction process on its own and thus requires lower speeds. A lower speed will allow you to work the product longer, which Menzerna products love, due to the lower heat build up on the face of the pad and painted surfaces. This also helps with minimal (or zero) dusting because you are keeping the heat away! I have yet to find a Menzerna product that dusts, cuts, and finishes better at a higher speed vs a lower speed.

I have never noticed any more or less marring from raising the speed, but I have noticed a significant difference in the finish of every Menzerna product i have used after removing polishing residue.

Thanks for stepping in and providing your feedback! Great advice. I have seen the same performance as you with FG400 although I generally run SF4000 at speed 5.

Thanks again! rops:

Thanks for replying.
I am newer at this, and am switching over from a pc to a flex 3401 and a rupes 21 at the same time. Coming from the pc, I always used the logic: faster is better; why go slower? Look at how much paint is left to correct. You better go quicker; there's a deadline to meet!

With this guideline you are set to achieve the best results with this setup and your 3401.

Keep us posted on your results. :dblthumb2:

 

[jakeclk]

I just purchased a Flex 3401 and I notice that many recommendations suggest starting with FG400 then finishing with SF4000. I have a 2014 BMW (black sapphire), which only suffers a few faint spider webs (which are only visible under bright lights) and other random light scratches. Do you recommend that I start with FG400 (using a white or orange LC hybrid pad) or PG2500? I have always regarded FG400 as a heavy duty compound and I am concerned that it might be overkill for car.

 

[Mike@DedicatedPerfection]

I just purchased a Flex 3401 and I notice that many recommendations suggest starting with FG400 then finishing with SF4000. I have a 2014 BMW (black sapphire), which only suffers a few faint spider webs (which are only visible under bright lights) and other random light scratches. Do you recommend that I start with FG400 (using a white or orange LC hybrid pad) or PG2500? I have always regarded FG400 as a heavy duty compound and I am concerned that it might be overkill for car.

Congrats on the new 3401 and BMW!

If the paint is neglected then yes that is my normal routine.

Since this is a new vehicle, do a test spot with SF4000, white Hybrid pad, and speed 5. This works wonders as a one step. If need be you can step up to PF2500 again on white. If that does not cut it, and you are still after a one step then try FG400 on white.

Now one of those should surely do the trick. If not a two step may be in order.

Remember, your test spot reveals everything.

 

[ViGi]

Thanks Mike you really answered all my questions.

 

[Mike@DedicatedPerfection]

Thanks Mike you really answered all my questions.

:dblthumb2:

 

[Cathul]

Hello Mike,
Why do you only use speed 3-4, rather than a higher speed, to perform the cutting? Do you feel their would be more marring or such if you were to cut at a higher speed?

I'm not Mike, but what i know is, that Menzerna specifically developed the FG400 with lower speeds on rotary polishers in mind (production detailing in car manufacturing plants, not aftermarket paint shops).
Therefor it just behaves not as good on higher speeds as it does on lower speed. And even if it was developed for rotary polishers the same is true for orbital polishers.

 

[Mike@DedicatedPerfection]

I'm not Mike, but what i know is, that Menzerna specifically developed the FG400 with lower speeds on rotary polishers in mind (production detailing in car manufacturing plants, not aftermarket paint shops).
Therefor it just behaves not as good on higher speeds as it does on lower speed. And even if it was developed for rotary polishers the same is true for orbital polishers.

Thanks for weighing in on this as well.

I agree. FG400 was designed to be utilized at lower speeds as recommended on the bottle from 900-1200 rpm.

I use the slower speed of 3-4 for compounding with FG400 as it behave much better than at the higher speeds such as 5-6. IME, when running FG400 at speed 6, I can achieve two passes before it gums up and dusts like crazy making useless. Also on the bottle of FG400, it mentions rotary speed of 900-1200.

Taken from my post #129.

 

[Toxix]

Mike,

Amazing threat. I've read every single page of it.
I'm convinced and am looking to make the switch to Menzerna products after reading this thread.

I've been a loyal customer to Meguiar's for the past few years using the good ol' M105 and M205 combo and recently M101 as well.
As a 1 step, I've been using Meguiar's D151 Paint Reconditioning Cream.
Does Menzerna make something similar to Meg's D151?

Would the SF4000 be a replacement for the D151?

Also, I have stocked up on Buff and Shine EuroFoam pads and am not really looking to spend any more money to replace the pads with the LC Hybrid pads.
Will your method work with the Buff and Shine EuroFoam pads? Or am I stuck having to switch over to the Hybrid pads to achieve your results?

 

[allenk4]

Men's just announced an AIO product is coming out soon

There is a thread on it somewhere

 

[Toxix]

For the Flex 3401, what size Hybrid pads are you guys using? 5" or 6.5"?
In conjunction with the factory backing plate?

 

[Tato]

I may use both, but 5" are favorite by far. They fit and contour every detail of design.

I may work at least 50-60% of a car using the 5", if not more...

My best will is for Lake Country to release a ~5.5" hybrid pad that fits the Flex smaller backing plate (4 3/8"). That would be much more an all around size than 5" or the 6.5", and we would not rely only on their Backing plate system.

Not only it's expensive, but I got one that broke on me. OK!, AG and LC solved the issue immediately sending me a new one, but I'm always concerned that something may happen to this plate again. The feeling of the standard plate is much more solid, IMO, sure.

Kind Regards.

 

[Toxix]

I may use both, but 5" are favorite by far. They fit and contour every detail of design.

I may work at least 50-60% of a car using the 5", if not more...

My best will is for Lake Country to release a ~5.5" hybrid pad that fits the Flex smaller backing plate (4 3/8"). That would be much more an all around size than 5" or the 6.5", and we would not rely only on their Backing plate system.

Not only it's expensive, but I got one that broke on me. OK!, AG and LC solved the issue immediately sending me a new one, but I'm always concerned that something may happen to this plate again.

The standard flex backing plates, differently, are hard rock!

Kind Regards.

Thanks for the response.
I'm not looking to purchase the LC-Interchangeable kit for the Flex YET.

But for the Flex factory backing plate, I would need to purchase and use the 6.5" Hybrid pads, yes?