next machine
- Thread starter RLucky82
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Colinpd137
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- Oct 13, 2012
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Flex 3401.
Danube
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- Jan 11, 2012
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RLucky82
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- Jan 3, 2013
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In terms of dual action polishers there's really only one direction; the Flex 3401.rops:
Have you given any thought to adding a rotary polisher to your arsenal?
Yes I have, but I need help deciding which one is best for me. Its tough to make these decisions on 300$ + tools without even getting to see them let alone hold them or even hear them run.
rmagnus
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- May 28, 2011
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What do you want to accomplish?
Sounds like you have limited experience with these tools. A natural progression from the PC might be then Groits the Flex 3401
Rotary buffers full size; Dewalt is a good buy($200ish) some like the Makita. The Flex PE 14 is pretty sweet but nearly twice the price. Money usually matters.
A DA and a rotary is all you'll ever realistically need. I think the other have made a good recommendation 3401. You should find someone that can demo these tools with you.
Sounds like you have limited experience with these tools. A natural progression from the PC might be then Groits the Flex 3401
Rotary buffers full size; Dewalt is a good buy($200ish) some like the Makita. The Flex PE 14 is pretty sweet but nearly twice the price. Money usually matters.
A DA and a rotary is all you'll ever realistically need. I think the other have made a good recommendation 3401. You should find someone that can demo these tools with you.
fenderpicks
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- Jan 24, 2012
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PC is junk IMO
I had a flex but I couldn't control it.
Now I am happy with my rupes 15
I had a flex but I couldn't control it.
Now I am happy with my rupes 15
CM8 6MT
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- Nov 20, 2012
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I wouldnt say the PC is "junk", its a great starter DA for a newbie. Flex is awesome for pro use.
At the end of the day, you can have the most expensive machine, and still get out skilled by someone with a "cheaper" machine.
Its not the machine that makes you good, its your SKILL & Technique that gets you results.
AutowerxDetailing
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- Apr 10, 2012
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I work with a PCXP DA and 849X rotary. I'll put it this way... I haven't run into anything that this combo couldn't handle.
I would like to add a 3401 and probably a GG 3" to the mix eventually.
I would like to add a 3401 and probably a GG 3" to the mix eventually.
Johny B
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- Jun 24, 2012
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I have a PCXP and a Flex. It's like comparing apples an oranges.
rmagnus
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- May 28, 2011
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More of an emotional response and personal preference which is okay because most know the PC is not junk. It has limitations but that's true of all tools. Not sure why it's always this tool is better than that tool. All the main stream DAs and RBs are all very good.
CM8 6MT said it all skill & technique is where it's at.
Johny B
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I disagree. The Flex will run 6.5" pads easily but using a PC under a litttle pressure the pad will stop rotating. Try a Flex and you will note a big difference. As I said previously it's like comparing apples and oranges.
RLucky82
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OK, I'm very satisfied with the results with my PC and you can see that in the pictures. But since the WRX/STi has small panels I've been using a lot of 4" pads and have been wondering how much better the flex could be. But the few times I did get to use the big pads I have stalled them now and then. You seem to have a valid point, I wish I could have them all shipped to my door for testing
In my opinion for the price the Porter Cable 7424xp is a winner. Maybe not "The" winner but its definatly use full.
RLucky82
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Thanks for asking these questions. What I'm trying to accomplish is, going from hand sanding to da polishing. The technique I'm using seems to be a waste of product and time, the end results are great but the process seems clunky and awkward. I have my eye on the Dewallt or maybe the makita but, and you nailed it, I have almost no experience with these tools , so I'm not sure where they fit into the plan... that's why I'm asking as many questions as I can. Eventually I'll ask the right one and get the answer I'm looking for :dblthumb2:
rmagnus
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The PC is a great tool. True you can't run 6.5" pads on it but like I said earlier all tools have their limitations. You have discovered 4" and 5.5" pads on the PC work well. Its an awesome buffer to break into using buffers versus hand finishing. After building some confidence just use different combinations of pads and products. MF and the Megs system shows a lot of merit for correction work with the PC. Surbuf pads do the same.
IMO it's hard to beat the value of a Dewalt RB.
Based on what you want to do the bottom line is get a RB. Its hard to go wrong with the Dewalt they are just time tested quality buffers. I believe the same is true of the Makita. DO NOT be afraid of these tools. They don't eat paint or burn through paint if used correctly. Buy one and get a junk yard panel to practice on. Start off with a polishing pad something in the 5.5" range because they are easy to control. Always keep the polisher moving, use less downward pressure than a DA and work in small areas. You will build confidence quickly as you get to know the tool. Then work your way to a wool pad and compound because this is the traditional method of removing wetsanding marks.
Since you already have a DA get a RB. If funds allow look into the Flex PE14-2. I believe the Flex brand is quality and this light weight buffer is very nice. If price is a concern the Dewalt or Makita will do nicely and as I sad are time tested tools.
Sanding is also important finish with the 3000 or even 5000 grit and it's super easy to remove those fine scratches. I find 1500-2000 grit markes pretty easy to remove with a RB so going a sanding step or two further makes it just that much easier.
Let us know what you decide.