non-professional comparison Rupes V Griot's G15

[AV8R]

I couldn't decide which long throw DA I wanted so I bought am LHR15 MKII and a Griot's G15. My background is non-professional car care guy. I have 4-6 cars in my family I take care of and occasionally help friends with their cars. I've been detailing my own for 30+ years. My impressions for anyone who cares.

I just detailed 2 of our cars. A 06 Honda Element EX-P (maroon metallic paint) and a 2012 Toyota Prius (Dark blue metallic). Both had years of tunnel wash scratches, paint transfers from parking lot damage, etc. I used Griot's BOSS fast correcting cream, their correcting cream (Used a BOSS white pad, Rupes yellow and green) and some NXT 2.0 sealant/wax I had in my detailing bin (mostly machine applied with a black pad).

Rupes has significantly less vibration. Vibration was the main reason I wanted to update from my 10+ yr old Griots 6" DA. It worked fine, but my hands would tingle for hours after doing a car. The Rupes, with a Rupes pad or a new BOSS pad was very, very smooth for me. The G15 seemed a bit "raw" for lack of a better term. I did run the G15 for 20 minutes on 1-2 to burn it in and break the brushes in prior to use. The Rupes is a used, like new unit I bought from a local.

Ergonomics between the 2 is a tie for me. I don't see any advantage in either unit. I don't find the soft start an advantage and don't think the immediate start is an issue.

Noise...the Rupes is quieter and the noise generated is a lower frequency which is easier on my ears.

The Griot's feels to me like it has more power. It doesn't stall nearly as easily as the Rupes. I did not modify either unit, but the Rupes stalls very easily. I had to really watch my technique to keep the pad spinning even with little to no pressure. Having said that I want to reiterate that the G15 feels more raw, less sophisticated, etc. Not a big deal for those of us doing a few cars a year, but the pros might find it an issue. If I didn't have both to try back to back I'd probably be happy with the G15....not that I'm unhappy with it, but everything is a matter of degrees.

I'm a Maguiar's twins guy from way back. The new BOSS creams really do work well. I used the fast correcting cream and their white pad for most of these 2 cars. I did no final polishing beyond the fast correcting cream. Really happy with this system so far.

Both units got the job done. I'll probably keep the Rupes and put a 3" kit on my old 6" Griot's.

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[BudgetPlan1]

Although I was comparing the BOSS21 to the Rupes 15 Mk2, our impressions are pretty similar. I do think the ergonomics of the BOSS, for whatever reason, lead to easier use for me. I believe the long handle of the Rupes makes me 'teeter-totter' it a bit more than the BOSS, leading occasional loss of flat pad to surface contact.

These were my thoughts when I picked up a BOSS21 to go with Rupes 15 Mk2. Since the release of the Rupes 15 Mk3 with it’s variable speed trigger and updated ergonomics, a few points have changed but since I don’t have a Mk3, can’t really comment on that one.

I know I struggled last year (2017) the whole Rupes v BOSS choice and even after reading everything I could find on the subject ya just never know until you yourself actually drive `em both. When at Barret-Jackson in Scottsdale last January, I got to play with a G21 in the Griots tent for a bit and it was enough to pique my curiosity enough to look into grabbing a G21 at some point.

Normally when time is of the essence and some compounding needs to be done, the Flex 3401, M101 on gray LC Force pads takes care of things like an old beat up van in a relatively expedient manner, although I`ve also used Rupes 15 Mk2 with billet backing plate on these types of vehicles as well. The G21 with 6.5″ BOSS Microfiber pads and Megs D300 ate this thing up even quicker than the Flex and far less taxing; 4 passes and move to next section. I`m quite impressed with this machine and really look forward to using it again.

i think the ergonomics of it vs the Rupes (in my case) makes it much easier to use than the Rupes, although the Rupes is still noticeably smoother for the most part and feels more solid/monolithic. The G21 kinda sorta feels more `assembled` if that makes any sense, but is still very smooth and comfortable to use; it`s slightly more compact compared to the Rupes and the angle of the handle and more rounded rubber grips keep me from teeter-tottering the machine/pad as much, eliminating some measure of stalling.

Even though it`s a relatively flat vehicle in this case (Ford E250 panel vsn), and ideal for a 21mm stroke, there are still a few curves over the wheels and some recessed body accent lines that require more attention with the Rupes as opposed to the Flex, and the G21 took care of those with ease, hardly any stalling and quite willing to have the pad edge pushed into recesses to polish. While not apples to apples (21mm v 15mm) it`s become obvious that each has pluses and minuses compared to the other, mostly very minor things.

Regardless, anybody who dismisses the BOSS machines without having tried em, or disparages them as cheap Chinese knockoffs should probably rethink that narrow-minded view. The BOSS is certainly a solid piece of kit, worthy of consideration. I look forward to us8ng on a curvier vehicle to see if my current impressions hold. It`s a more comfortable machine to hold (for me) than the Rupes, with more rounded edges and rubber grips/inserts.

I did follow up on the hood with a yellow BOSS Pad and Scholl S40 and it worked very nicely and quickly; that extra 6mm of throw over a 15mm machine really covers a lot of ground efficiently.

As for a few more thoughts on BOSS v. Rupes,

What I prefer w the BOSS:

1. Variable speed trigger. Much more preferable to me, very easy to set working speed and then use variable speed trigger to slowly spread polish initially and then move right up to working speed without having to adjust speed dial. A little item but when you consider how often you do this at the start of each section,` it`s a more convenient approach than Rupes slow start. If going with Rupes Mk3, it now has variable speed trigger.

2. Ergonomics. For me, BOSS is more comfortable to hold with its softer rubber grips here and there, bit more compact and rounded chassis as well. It just seems to rest in my hands in a more natural manner. Rupes is a bit more `square-ish` with regards to chassis.

3. Usage/effectiveness/learning curve. The BOSS just seemed to be easier to use effectively right outta the box. While it has a more powerful motor, spec-wise, than the Rupes, I`m not sure how (or if) that translates into more torque, thus less stalling.

I didn`t use any if the included washers to space the plate a bit off of the shroud for 100% free spinning and I`m not sure I will. The Rupes seems to have more shroud to plate drag/contact in its stock configuration as when cleanng/spinning` a microfiber pad with compressed air on the Rupes, the stock set up does not allow the pad to spin while compressed air is blown on pad. The G21 will spin while being blown off for effective pad cleaning. There is still some contact with the G21 as when pad stops spinning when power is switched off, it does not completely spin freely until momentum stops it;
the last little bit of rotation stops in a manner which indicates friction is involved in the final stopping rather than loss of momentum.

What I prefer w the Rupes:

1. It`s a Rupes. For me, anyway, with the Rupes being the original long throw,` there`s just a certain mystique` (well warranted)` about their machines. The user experience with the Rupes is a very relaxing, almost artistic experience once you get your technique dialed in, which I still have yet to completely do; getting there but still a ways to go.

2. Smooth and soothing while in use. The Rupes still has an advantage in overall smoothness, especially with a billet backing plate bolted on and a yellow or white Rupes pad on it. It`s a combo that just makes me want to polish something for the sake of using it and enjoying the feel. The sound level of the Rupes is smooth as well, a consistent soothing `hum of quality`; G21 is a more mechanical sound although in no way objectionable

3. Rupes has 25ft cord option, not avaliable on G21 that I saw. Minor inconvenience at most but worthy of note.

Pretty much right after ordering the G21 I was on the fence regarding if it was dumb or not, being only an occasional hobbyist with the Rupes 15 and the Flex 3401 on the shelf already; after using it for a few hours, I have no regrets in buying and trying the G21, that`s for sure.

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[AV8R]

Although I was comparing the BOSS21 to the Rupes 15 Mk2, our impressions are pretty similar. I do think the ergonomics of the BOSS, for whatever reason, lead to easier use for me. I believe the long handle of the Rupes makes me 'teeter-totter' it a bit more than the BOSS, leading occasional loss of flat pad to surface contact.

Thanks. I didn't notice that myself, but maybe with more use it might be an issue.

 

[Rsurfer]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but doesn't the Mark III have more power (less stalling) than the Mark II? If power is what your looking for than the 21 Mark III with a 5" backing plate will provide all the power that you will need.

 

[Dan Tran]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but doesn't the Mark III have more power (less stalling) than the Mark II? If power is what your looking for than the 21 Mark III with a 5" backing plate will provide all the power that you will need.

They both are similar if not identical in terms of power and stalling. You are practically investing in more rubber and a longer cord.

 

[Rsurfer]

They both are similar if not identical in terms of power and stalling. You are practically investing in more rubber and a longer cord.

Will the 21 Mark III with a 5" backing plate stall less than the 15 Mark II?

 

[MarkD51]

Not really a true apples to apples comparison IMO since the two machines had different throws. Might just be cutting hairs is all though.

Also, Griots provides Spacer washers for the G15/G21 machine's Backing Plates, this feature may impart some operational differences in felt smoothness, variation in stalling, possibly sound transmitted also.

 

[Dan Tran]

Will the 21 Mark III with a 5" backing plate stall less than the 15 Mark II?

It’s been so long since I had LHR21 set up with a 5” backing plate, but the LHR15 MKII as well as the latest MKIII are smoother than the 21mm w/ 5” BP I feel.

In terms of stalling, they both are similar— possibly giving the edge to the 15mm due to a 5” BP being standard working in junction with a smaller throw. I hope this makes sense.

 

[Rsurfer]

Not really a true apples to apples comparison IMO since the two machines had different throws.



I realize that they are different throws. I was asking about the stalling on curves.

 

[AV8R]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but doesn't the Mark III have more power (less stalling) than the Mark II? If power is what your looking for than the 21 Mark III with a 5" backing plate will provide all the power that you will need.

Everything I've read and watched says the mechanicals are the same. It's ergos mainly.

 

[AV8R]

Not really a true apples to apples comparison IMO since the two machines had different throws. Might just be cutting hairs is all though.

Also, Griots provides Spacer washers for the G15/G21 machine's Backing Plates, this feature may impart some operational differences in felt smoothness, variation in stalling, possibly sound transmitted also.

No idea who you're replying to (no quoted text), but my comparison was with 2 - 15mm throw machines.

 

[Sizzle Chest]

Thank you for the comparison! Well done and good info that your provided! If you convert your 6" to a 3" it will be a beast of a machine! (I did that with mine and really like it)

 

[SWETM]

Don't know if you have done it to the Rupes but if not it can be an improvement of less stalling. It's to lube the outside of the backing plate where the shroud meets the backing plate. Cause it's a safety feature to have the backing plate stop spinning sooner when you lift the polisher from the surface you polishing. Think it's even by law needed here in EU. That's why some goes with the washer mod on Rupes polishers. Also take of the backing plate and inspect the shroud meets the backing plate if you see a wear on it. If not lubed correctly during it's lifetime it can be a benefit to get a new plastic shroud if it's this what it's called as I'm getting more uncertain if it is so LOL. Or if you see some wear rubber on the shroud you can use a razor blade to cut off this if it's on the backing plate. Also clean up the backing plate before lube it so you get any old weared rubber off it. IPA or a panel prep wipe product and some elbow grease usually fixing it to be cleaned up. Also backing plates wears down during time so might be another benefit to buy a new one if you see a sign of it.

Great write up and review and comparison testing between the G15 and Rupes 15mm Mark II polishers. Thanks for shareing your experience with them!

/ Tony

 

[AV8R]

Don't know if you have done it to the Rupes but if not it can be an improvement of less stalling. It's to lube the outside of the backing plate where the shroud meets the backing plate. Cause it's a safety feature to have the backing plate stop spinning sooner when you lift the polisher from the surface you polishing. Think it's even by law needed here in EU. That's why some goes with the washer mod on Rupes polishers. Also take of the backing plate and inspect the shroud meets the backing plate if you see a wear on it. If not lubed correctly during it's lifetime it can be a benefit to get a new plastic shroud if it's this what it's called as I'm getting more uncertain if it is so LOL. Or if you see some wear rubber on the shroud you can use a razor blade to cut off this if it's on the backing plate. Also clean up the backing plate before lube it so you get any old weared rubber off it. IPA or a panel prep wipe product and some elbow grease usually fixing it to be cleaned up. Also backing plates wears down during time so might be another benefit to buy a new one if you see a sign of it.

Great write up and review and comparison testing between the G15 and Rupes 15mm Mark II polishers. Thanks for shareing your experience with them!

/ Tony

Thanks, Tony.

When I brought the Rupes home, I disassembled the backing plate and cleaned and re-lubed the shroud and the backing plate. They come from Rupes with silicone grease so I moved some that had migrated away from the pad, back onto it.

I may try the washer mod just to see how much difference it makes.

Thanks again

 

[MarkD51]

No idea who you're replying to (no quoted text), but my comparison was with 2 - 15mm throw machines.

OK, I see that now, re-reading your original post, sorry. Perhaps confused reading further posts in this thread.

Another thought I might toss around with Griots vs Rupes. Lubrication of internals. What type,, and if properly done?

I seemed to note that when I did surgery on my little GG3. Upon opening, there was a lot of Grease within the case. But the gears were virtually bone dry.

Besides the lubricating qualities of the greases themselves which might have some effect on operation smoothness, and noise levels, another thought I had was this.

Heat, and usage over time. With heat, greases liquify, and would assume most Polishers work in a similar fashion, there's a Gearcase. With in effect sort of a ring and pinion gear just like a differential.

What I observed within the GG3 appeared to be these causes, "heat", although the machine had not been in use much prior to opening, and "centrifugal force", that slung the grease away from the gears themselves.

While the quality of the grease itself with the GG3 looked very clean, bore resemblance to Permatex Super Lube Synthetic Grease, I was unsure of what properties this grease possessed?

Thus I decided to totally remove all the old grease and re-lube with Super Lube Synthetic Grease.
Can I say the quality of the new grease was actually better that what I replaced? Of that I am unsure?
At least the grease I threw in has some known, assuring qualities I felt.

Did the GG3 run smoother and quieter. Yes. The combination of the replacement of a pair of basically factory new, but cracked Brushes no doubt had an impact on proper operation, but also I might be inclined to think that just the simple re-distribution of grease onto the gears themselves also helped.

I know a lot of users might not be inclined to tear apart their Polishers, for fear of breakage and then possible downtime if there's a FUBAR, but I might take an educated guess that periodic inspection, cleaning and re-lubrication is something that might be required over time.

Hope you haven't minded my comments.

 

[MarkD51]

To add further, I'm not in any way trying to insinuate that Polishers such as the GG3, GG6, PC, and possibly even the Boss, and new G8/G/9 machines are in the realm of Polishers such as Rupes or Flex.

Doubtful that many would argue my point that a Polisher such as the GG3 was a tool that in reality only actually cost about $10-$15 per unit at most to manufacture in China. There are inherit shortcomings.

That the comparison of the GG3 to say a Machine like the Rupes Bigfoot would be like comparing a Yugo to a Ferrari from an engineering-design standpoint

I've never torn into a Flex or Rupes to further comment on their designs, but might be inclined to surmise that these are much better thought out designs and any such issues of lubrication design has been very well thought out and engineered into these Polisher Brands. Thus comments I made in my previous post may be moot.

I have a Griots Boss-15. There may come a time where I'll tear into it also, and investigate.

 

[AV8R]

To add further, I'm not in any way trying to insinuate that Polishers such as the GG3, GG6, PC, and possibly even the Boss, and new G8/G/9 machines are in the realm of Polishers such as Rupes or Flex. .

Well...they are being marketed as such. My investigations led me to 3-4 machines as there isn't a lot of competition in this market. They're built to look like each other and priced closely enough that they appear to be comparable. The proof is in the eating of the pudding.

 

[MarkD51]

Well...they are being marketed as such. My investigations led me to 3-4 machines as there isn't a lot of competition in this market. They're built to look like each other and priced closely enough that they appear to be comparable. The proof is in the eating of the pudding.

That's true.
One thing for sure about any tool, is there is one singular aspect designed and incorporated into all of them. Profit.

 

[fightnews]

Everything I've read and watched says the mechanicals are the same. It's ergos mainly.

No they made major improvements on pad stalling with the mark III. I don't know what you have read but they definitely mention it in the write up

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[Coatingsarecrack]

No they made major improvements on pad stalling with the mark III. I don't know what you have read but they definitely mention it in the write up

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I think its same internals but they’ve upgrade the programming kinda like a car. More torque i believe.


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