Best extension cords...

Dairyman

New member
what kind of extension cords are you guys using



A nice extension cord is really nice and often overlooked



im using a shorter version of this rigid one and want to upgrade to a thicker gauge, better for your tools



any suggestions?
 

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dang that is one thick extension cord. Comes with a hefty price to but im sure since a number of you have it . . . . . it must be good.
 
Depending on how long of a cord you need, get either 12 or 10 gauge wire. the lower the number the more current it will carry without dropping off voltage.It pays to get a good extension cord.
 
Just make sure you check the amp rating of the cord. For extended machining, you want a cord that's rated for at least 10 amps, preferably 12-15 amps. Generally, 10-12 gauge cords will handle that with no problem, some 14 gauge cords can too. I bought a cheap 100 ft outdoor 15 amp cord years ago from Home Depot for $30.
 
vtec92civic said:
dang that is one thick extension cord. Comes with a hefty price to but im sure since a number of you have it . . . . . it must be good.

Since a buffer is running for hours a good cord is needed, helps the motor run cooler since it's not fighting to draw power.
 
(2) 50 foot Craftsman Professional yellow 14 gauge with lighted ends and a unique end lock thing, that makes it impossible for things to come unplugged. Did I mention the lifetime nationwide full replacement warranty? I have tried a bunch of cords and these are the best out there. I have been very impressed with them.
 
My Flex got too hot to touch (the metal bell around the gearing for the backing plate) last week, even running with what I thought was a heavy-enough cord (ceiling-mount garage reel). Now I'm thinking a heavier cord is needed.
 
animes2k said:
My Flex got too hot to touch (the metal bell around the gearing for the backing plate) last week, even running with what I thought was a heavy-enough cord (ceiling-mount garage reel). Now I'm thinking a heavier cord is needed.



My Flex almost always gets hot like that, even when I've had it plugged directly into a wall outlet. I think it's just the nature of the beast....
 
:up thanks. I may lube the felt ring I've seen people talk about. Also, it just sounds pretty awful when winding down, but that may also be the nature of the beast.



Sorry for the threadjacking.



When I sold my Metabo rotary a few years back, the buyer came to me with concerns about it getting too hot, a problem I'd never had. I think we tracked it down to a lightweight extension cord. I've also had my power washer refuse to work with too long/too light of an extension cord. So it can make a big difference.
 
Ya, I think the Flex ROs just get hot normally. So like, do you guys think I'll be fine with a 100 ft. 13amp cord @ 14 guage?
 
Maximus20895 said:
I have on old 16 gauge cord that I use with my DA with zero problems..



For 95% of extension cord users, whatever is usual cheapest with required amperage is the best. If you are working outdoors, need flexibility in cold weather, etc. then you made need to consider a "better" cord.
 
mystickid said:
Ya, I think the Flex ROs just get hot normally. So like, do you guys think I'll be fine with a 100 ft. 13amp cord @ 14 guage?



Bunky said:
For 95% of extension cord users, whatever is usual cheapest with required amperage is the best. If you are working outdoors, need flexibility in cold weather, etc. then you made need to consider a "better" cord.



Ah thanks. I was worried that I needed to upgrade my extension cords! I've been using the one below for both my Flex and PC (50', 14/3). (I noted my Flex got pretty hot last detail, even if it was a hot day- I was glad I had a second DA to work with for LSP while I let the other cool down.)



Amazon.com: Coleman Cable 02408 14/3 SJTW Vinyl Outdoor Extension Cord, Red, 50-Foot: Home Improvement
 
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