New Flex 3401 coming tomorrow, how much learning curve orver DA?

zmanjohn

zmanjohn

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Guys, very excited after all the reviews, posts and videos of everyone using the Flex 3401, I called in all the favors. Used my birthday moeny and even pulling ahead my Christmas gift money to get one. Well it is just like Christmas in July.
I could not pass up the sale, not sure how many others saw this package and purchased. But I order the VRG Flex kit with polisher, for $314.44, that's cheaper than just the Flex itself, so just had to get one.

My question is how much of a learning curve is ther using this polisher over a DA? I have little seat time with the DA as I have just been starting out and currently have a couple of jobs lined up. This is a Hobby/Part-Time busniess for me, mostly late nights and weekends when free.
I want to start using right away, but also want to know of any tricks to help with learing curve.
Any comments from those who own one or have had the pleasure of using one would be very greatful.


I can't wait, like a kid in candy store, want tomorrow to hurry up. Im the MANIm the MANIm the MAN:buffing:
 
Learning curve is after one panel. After that it's all smiles from there on. Have fun with ur flex.
 
Kevin hit the nail on the head. It won't take long for you to feel comfortable with your new Flex. When you can afford it, order the LC Interchangable Backing Plate system. It will provide you with even more opportunities to use your Flex.

FLEX XC3401 Changeable Backing Plate System
 
02xtreme07SS said:
Kevin hit the nail on the head. It won't take long for you to feel comfortable with your new Flex. When you can afford it, order the LC Interchangable Backing Plate system. It will provide you with even more opportunities to use your Flex.

FLEX XC3401 Changeable Backing Plate System
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Oh, Yeah.. that's my plan. Couple of details and cash in pocket, it is already on my wish list. Best part is I already have a couple of pads to use it with, just limited funds. Was so happy to see on the sale. I know my wife was not.
 
Just reassure her that this tool will allow you to be more efficient with your time which will allow you to spend more time with her. :xyxthumbs:

Try to say it with a straight face....that's the key to making it believable. Im the MAN
 
02xtreme07SS said:
Just reassure her that this tool will allow you to be more efficient with your time which will allow you to spend more time with her. :xyxthumbs:

Try to say it with a straight face....that's the key to making it believable. Im the MAN
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Oh Yeah, we both think alike. Just spent 4.5 hours on a detail, told her it would cut my polishing time almost in half, that means more time for you and girls and more money in bank.
5 clicks later it was ordered and on its way. The puppy dog eyes and I will do your car first were also part of the agreement. LOL
 
My buddy just got his Flex delivered today. He got home from work this afternoon and tried it out. He already sent me a text that said he loves it. He couldn't believe how smooth and quiet it is compared to his GG6, and he is even able to use it right handed which he said made it easier to use the controls (he is a lefty and normally polishes like a lefty would). He also said he didn't even notice the opposite rotation.

My Flex arrives tomorrow, and I can't wait to use it, especially after my friend's instantly positive experience.
 
Dan K said:
My buddy just got his Flex delivered today. He got home from work this afternoon and tried it out. He already sent me a text that said he loves it. He couldn't believe how smooth and quiet it is compared to his GG6, and he is even able to use it right handed which he said made it easier to use the controls (he is a lefty and normally polishes like a lefty would). He also said he didn't even notice the opposite rotation.

My Flex arrives tomorrow, and I can't wait to use it, especially after my friend's instantly positive experience.
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Dan,
Thanks for the post. I too am excited. I have been using a HF DA that I had highly modified. It works ok for what I have been doing, but not well balanced and even with mods still noisy. Looking forward to a real professional tool. I am used to working with good quality stuff, but price was right for HF DA.
 
It took me all of 30 seconds to get used to it on rock hard Mercedes black paint and I am a total idiot. You'll love it so cast away the doubts. FEEL it work and you'll love it from that moment on.
 
Thanks Rick, now I will never be able to sleep. Maybe call in sick tomorrow to wait for the UPS guy. LOL
 
Piece of cake with decent pads, keep her level and go to town....love mine!
 
If your fundamentals are sound then it will like duck to water. Keeping the pad flat is where it's at. LC Hybrids pads with the 3401 is awesome.
 
Congrats on the purchase!!! I absolutely love mine. As others have said pick up the LC interchangeable bp system and 5 inch hybrids to get started. This is the best combo for this machine bar none. When the time is right pick up the 6.5 hybrid pads to go along with it. I prefer to use only the hybrid pads as they work so well with the 3401.

Your going to love it. Just always remember that it is forced rotation and the power it has. Learn to harness it properly and and you will be on your way to perfecting paint.

I also suggest using the Menzerna line of compounds/polishes. Especially FG400....
 
Congrats on the purchase!!! I absolutely love mine.
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Thanks that is what I am hoping also and by all that I have read, I will.

As others have said pick up the LC interchangeable bp system and 5 inch hybrids to get started. This is the best combo for this machine bar none.
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I already have it in my wish list, that will be one of my next larger purchased. I am sure I will "Need it" fairly soon, just like women "Need" purses and shoes...

When the time is right pick up the 6.5 hybrid pads to go along with it. I prefer to use only the hybrid pads as they work so well with the 3401.
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I have the flat pads now, but based upon the recommendations, I will add to my wish list also.

Your going to love it. Just always remember that it is forced rotation and the power it has. Learn to harness it properly and and you will be on your way to perfecting paint.
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That is the only thing that scared me a bit, part of the reason why I posted. It also seems like with the right combo's it could be a gentle giant. I do have a light touch and I am very confident with a little practice will get the feel quickly. I use a lot of hand tools at home and work.

I also suggest using the Menzerna line of compounds/polishes. Especially FG400....
Click to expand...
Already starting with that arsenal. I have the SF4000, love the results with DA, can't imagine what it will do with a real quality tool.

Thanks for the info, I appreciate all the replies.
 
You shouldn't have any problem. Yes, the 3401 is unforgiving if you don't keep it level. But, it is such a great machine. You will love it. Don't be surprised if it walks on you a little or sometimes seems to have a mind of its own. Take it slow and easy and it will be great. Congrats on your purchase.
 
It took me a few passes and I figured it out,so smooth to operate and easy to use,you'll love it right away.
 
Thanks to all for your comments. REcieved my order on Wednesday, UPS guy came really late and wife already made plans.
I have a detail on a black charger next week, so I should be able to get in some good practice. Plan to redue my car, quick detail to get used to it before I tackle the black detail.
I hope to be able to post pictures late next week.
 
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