Just Ordered A......
- Thread starter cjbigcog
- Start date
Alright, now we're gaining some steam...I think that will make about 5 of us (counting the banned ZoranC). I think you're really going to like it.
I know wiht my first detail on that Camry that it probably could've been better, but as with the PC it takes a few times to really start to get the hang of it. I'm doing an '02 Acural RL starting this evening. It's silver colored, so it might still be a little difficult to see how the paint fixing goes. It has some light swirling but that's about it. I'm planning on a dose of orange pad and Menz IP. Also, I'm going to stick with the red velcro pad until it starts to get worse...then switch to the black one. Should have some more feedback after the weekend. In the meantime, if you have any questions, just drop me a line. Welcome to the club!!!
I know wiht my first detail on that Camry that it probably could've been better, but as with the PC it takes a few times to really start to get the hang of it. I'm doing an '02 Acural RL starting this evening. It's silver colored, so it might still be a little difficult to see how the paint fixing goes. It has some light swirling but that's about it. I'm planning on a dose of orange pad and Menz IP. Also, I'm going to stick with the red velcro pad until it starts to get worse...then switch to the black one. Should have some more feedback after the weekend. In the meantime, if you have any questions, just drop me a line. Welcome to the club!!!
DJ....thanks!
I'll be interested to hear how the RL comes out.
The first car I have scheduled with the Flex is a silver '02 Benz. I don't know what the condition of this car is yet. If not too bad I plan to use IP/orange pad followed by 106FF/white pad. After that, AJ and OS. This will be the first silver car for me. Any suggestions appreciated.
I'll be interested to hear how the RL comes out.
The first car I have scheduled with the Flex is a silver '02 Benz. I don't know what the condition of this car is yet. If not too bad I plan to use IP/orange pad followed by 106FF/white pad. After that, AJ and OS. This will be the first silver car for me. Any suggestions appreciated.
Hey CJ...Welcome to the Club!! :welcome
As DJ notes...it's a small club, but we're growing. With your addition, we just increased our affiliates by 50%. I’d like to see other clubs show that kind of growth rate.
I'm sure you'll enjoy the Flex...do you currently have a PC or another polisher??
Certianly post some pics and thoughts once you get your Flex.
DJ...let us know how the RL turns out. Do you plan on finishing with a different polish/pad? Or are you going to try to finish down with the IP and orange??
Good things are happening in the Flex commune!!:grinno:
Though we do have a man down...
As DJ notes...it's a small club, but we're growing. With your addition, we just increased our affiliates by 50%. I’d like to see other clubs show that kind of growth rate.
I'm sure you'll enjoy the Flex...do you currently have a PC or another polisher??
Certianly post some pics and thoughts once you get your Flex.
DJ...let us know how the RL turns out. Do you plan on finishing with a different polish/pad? Or are you going to try to finish down with the IP and orange??
Good things are happening in the Flex commune!!:grinno:
Though we do have a man down...
Thanks frosty! I have a PC. After reading the user reviews on the Flex, what cought my attention was the time saved using it. I'm still fairly new to machine polishing, but I could see that it was time to move up. Also....when I was ordering the Flex, the guy I was talking with said that they have had quite a few orders in the last two weeks. I think there could be more users out there who have not surfaced yet.
SuperBee364
New member
ZoranC got banned? I'm not seeing "Banned User" under his name... Sucks if he did. 
Edit: Never mind, I found this thread: http://autopia.org/forum/hot-tub/97444-so-uh-what-happened-zoranc.html?highlight=zoranc+banned
Edit: Never mind, I found this thread: http://autopia.org/forum/hot-tub/97444-so-uh-what-happened-zoranc.html?highlight=zoranc+banned
rundatrack
New member
Whats the website for that vendor...?
Alright, I really need to get a darker car to detail. These lighter colored cars just don't photo that well. the RL turned out real nice. It was in pretty good shape to start with. Really the only thing wrong with it was some mild to medium swirling. I'll go ahead and write up some thoughts here, while I have some pics uploading.
I did the usual wash and clay before digging in. Started out with an orange Erasure pad from Excel Detail and some IP. I promised myself that I was going to layoff the speed 6 initially. So, I did my usual 2 x 2 section by going left-right-left and then up-down-up at a nice slow speed - maybe 1-3" per second. Them some back and forth quick action. This was with pretty good pressure. Would then go with basically no pressure up-down-up and right-left-right to let the forced rotation really do it's thing. Would then gear down to about a 4 and do a few finishing runs on it. Had the Flex on about a 5 speed. Backed the car out, and it looked like it helped a bit, it just wasn't where I wanted it to be. So, back in the garage, and went with the same pad and IP, but bumped it up to a speed 6 this time. I did a different section of the hood this time to see the difference between first section. Backed it out, and, yep, there it was, that's what I needed, the full power. Really, really, did a nice job taking out the swirls. So, I had my combination and did the rest of the car this way. You could still see a few random swirls here or there. The polishing went much quicker than this would've with the PC. I probably would've been using a stronger polish and pad as well. Like I said previously, it takes about 2 minutes to do a section as opposed to closer to 5 it would take me with the PC and to get a bit better results as well.
If you are going to change pads I would suggest trying to let it cool down a little first. As previously posted, I've already started getting some separation on the red velcro from the backing plate. After doing most of the top surfaces, I tried taking the Erasure orange pad off to put on the Detailer's Paradise orange pad, and started getting some more separation. Not good. However, I was still able to make it through the rest of the detail with the red. I guess I'm tring to hold out for as long as possible with the red.
I really like using the Flex. It definitely has a sense of purpose when in action. When doing my initial spread, i think I like doing it on a 2 or 2.5 better than 1. It seems to spread a little better, then fire up to 6, and do some cool-down on about a 4. I like to apply pressure on the head and also push down on the tail as well. This seems to give a nice pancake effect to the pad, and doesn't just squat down the front area of the pad where it's rotating. This time I did apply FMJ using my PC on about a 3.5. I think it was Frostydog saying that it's still much easier to work the PC for LSP, and I definitely have to agree. The soft start on it is really nice. Does a nice ramp up. Again, the trigger lock is essential to use. As I posted on another thread, I've been able to work the Flex in tighter areas as I get more familiar with it such as top ledge of rear bumper. On the RL though, I had to be extremely careful around the sideview mirrors. It takes some thinking on the fly as to how you should have the Flex positioned and whether the tail is to the right, left, down or up.
Ok I think my pics are uploaded now, here are some finished product pics of the RL:
this is right after finishing up this side with IP:
Finished product:
Sorry, no good sun pics. Then ones I took that I thought were going to show the swirling before and after just didn't turn out. You'll have to take my word for it!!! Let me know if there are any questions.
I did the usual wash and clay before digging in. Started out with an orange Erasure pad from Excel Detail and some IP. I promised myself that I was going to layoff the speed 6 initially. So, I did my usual 2 x 2 section by going left-right-left and then up-down-up at a nice slow speed - maybe 1-3" per second. Them some back and forth quick action. This was with pretty good pressure. Would then go with basically no pressure up-down-up and right-left-right to let the forced rotation really do it's thing. Would then gear down to about a 4 and do a few finishing runs on it. Had the Flex on about a 5 speed. Backed the car out, and it looked like it helped a bit, it just wasn't where I wanted it to be. So, back in the garage, and went with the same pad and IP, but bumped it up to a speed 6 this time. I did a different section of the hood this time to see the difference between first section. Backed it out, and, yep, there it was, that's what I needed, the full power. Really, really, did a nice job taking out the swirls. So, I had my combination and did the rest of the car this way. You could still see a few random swirls here or there. The polishing went much quicker than this would've with the PC. I probably would've been using a stronger polish and pad as well. Like I said previously, it takes about 2 minutes to do a section as opposed to closer to 5 it would take me with the PC and to get a bit better results as well.
If you are going to change pads I would suggest trying to let it cool down a little first. As previously posted, I've already started getting some separation on the red velcro from the backing plate. After doing most of the top surfaces, I tried taking the Erasure orange pad off to put on the Detailer's Paradise orange pad, and started getting some more separation. Not good. However, I was still able to make it through the rest of the detail with the red. I guess I'm tring to hold out for as long as possible with the red.
I really like using the Flex. It definitely has a sense of purpose when in action. When doing my initial spread, i think I like doing it on a 2 or 2.5 better than 1. It seems to spread a little better, then fire up to 6, and do some cool-down on about a 4. I like to apply pressure on the head and also push down on the tail as well. This seems to give a nice pancake effect to the pad, and doesn't just squat down the front area of the pad where it's rotating. This time I did apply FMJ using my PC on about a 3.5. I think it was Frostydog saying that it's still much easier to work the PC for LSP, and I definitely have to agree. The soft start on it is really nice. Does a nice ramp up. Again, the trigger lock is essential to use. As I posted on another thread, I've been able to work the Flex in tighter areas as I get more familiar with it such as top ledge of rear bumper. On the RL though, I had to be extremely careful around the sideview mirrors. It takes some thinking on the fly as to how you should have the Flex positioned and whether the tail is to the right, left, down or up.
Ok I think my pics are uploaded now, here are some finished product pics of the RL:
this is right after finishing up this side with IP:
Finished product:
Sorry, no good sun pics. Then ones I took that I thought were going to show the swirling before and after just didn't turn out. You'll have to take my word for it!!! Let me know if there are any questions.
Another sharp looking finish DJ!! :goodjob
Did you only use an orange pad and IP?!?! You didn't finish down with anything finer?!?!:shocked
I'm amazed you could produce a finish like that with an orange pad and IP...that's a path I haven't even gone down yet. Thus far I've been using orange/IP for correction only, I haven't even tried to finish with that combo. I'm encouraged after seeing your results...
^^ That's it, I think you nailed it!! That's the main difference with the Flex (and I imagine any forced rotation RO) vs a none forced rotation RO. It's the tail placement in relationship to the head of the polisher. Especially when you're changing that relationship while the polisher is running. Again...it's not like the force of change is so great you can't controll it, but you just have to be cognizant that the push/pull "feel" of the polisher will change. The more I use the it the more I'm starting to anticipate and adjust for that change without even really thinking about it. It does start to become second nature. I'm sure you're starting to see this as well...
Did you only use an orange pad and IP?!?! You didn't finish down with anything finer?!?!:shocked
I'm amazed you could produce a finish like that with an orange pad and IP...that's a path I haven't even gone down yet. Thus far I've been using orange/IP for correction only, I haven't even tried to finish with that combo. I'm encouraged after seeing your results...
DJ_JonnyV said:
^^ That's it, I think you nailed it!! That's the main difference with the Flex (and I imagine any forced rotation RO) vs a none forced rotation RO. It's the tail placement in relationship to the head of the polisher. Especially when you're changing that relationship while the polisher is running. Again...it's not like the force of change is so great you can't controll it, but you just have to be cognizant that the push/pull "feel" of the polisher will change. The more I use the it the more I'm starting to anticipate and adjust for that change without even really thinking about it. It does start to become second nature. I'm sure you're starting to see this as well...
imported_hooked
New member
Man! I wish that Edge Pads were compatible with the Flex. I hate the thought of buying the Flex and then having to buy new pads too!
P.S. Nice work on that Acura.
P.S. Nice work on that Acura.
[quote name='frostydog']Another sharp looking finish DJ!! :goodjob
Did you only use an orange pad and IP?!?! You didn't finish down with anything finer?!?!:shocked
I'm amazed you could produce a finish like that with an orange pad and IP...that's a path I haven't even gone down yet. Thus far I've been using orange/IP for correction only, I haven't even tried to finish with that combo. I'm encouraged after seeing your results...QUOTE]
Hey, Frosty, thanks for the compliment. Yes, that's just IP and orange pad to finish down. It was really the right combination for this car. After spreading and cranking the Flex up to 6 and doing the correction movements, I ease up on the pressure while still keeping it at 6 and do a couple of more up / downs, right / lefts letting the forced rotation do it's thing. By this time the polish is really starting to break down and become translucent. After this, I'll gear down to about a 4 and finish off. I think these last 2 steps help refine the polish on the paint a little more and clean up anything that might've been induced when doing the heavier pressure correction runs. The first pic I posted above is right after hitting the rear door panel there with IP.
On a side note, I picked up a tool bag for the Flex today. It's the same one as pictured here for my PC:
I bought another one of these B&D deals at Costco. The first one I bought houses all my polishes, waxes, interior stuff, etc. and the bag holds the PC. The 2nd one I just got will hold the Flex, but not sure what to do with the container yet. Here's a few more pics:
I got the 2nd one at Costco (same as the first) for $25. When shopping for bags for the Flex, you couldn't even get something decent for less than that. I figured might as well get another one of these. I might call Powerhouse one of these days as well and inquire about the Flex carrying bag. Maybe they'll hook me up with a free one for all the 3401s they're selling now!!!
That's enough car care for me this weekend...need to clock some hours in on the yard...
Did you only use an orange pad and IP?!?! You didn't finish down with anything finer?!?!:shocked
I'm amazed you could produce a finish like that with an orange pad and IP...that's a path I haven't even gone down yet. Thus far I've been using orange/IP for correction only, I haven't even tried to finish with that combo. I'm encouraged after seeing your results...QUOTE]
Hey, Frosty, thanks for the compliment. Yes, that's just IP and orange pad to finish down. It was really the right combination for this car. After spreading and cranking the Flex up to 6 and doing the correction movements, I ease up on the pressure while still keeping it at 6 and do a couple of more up / downs, right / lefts letting the forced rotation do it's thing. By this time the polish is really starting to break down and become translucent. After this, I'll gear down to about a 4 and finish off. I think these last 2 steps help refine the polish on the paint a little more and clean up anything that might've been induced when doing the heavier pressure correction runs. The first pic I posted above is right after hitting the rear door panel there with IP.
On a side note, I picked up a tool bag for the Flex today. It's the same one as pictured here for my PC:
I bought another one of these B&D deals at Costco. The first one I bought houses all my polishes, waxes, interior stuff, etc. and the bag holds the PC. The 2nd one I just got will hold the Flex, but not sure what to do with the container yet. Here's a few more pics:
I got the 2nd one at Costco (same as the first) for $25. When shopping for bags for the Flex, you couldn't even get something decent for less than that. I figured might as well get another one of these. I might call Powerhouse one of these days as well and inquire about the Flex carrying bag. Maybe they'll hook me up with a free one for all the 3401s they're selling now!!!
That's enough car care for me this weekend...need to clock some hours in on the yard...
I was affraid someone was going to ask that.
Don't read too much into what I wrote...it's just kinda hard to put into words what I'm referring to. There are many variables (tail placement, angle of pad, pressure, whether you're pushing or pulling the polisher, etc...) that with a PC really didn't mean anything. But with a forced rotation RO, all those things in conjunction with one another effect the "feel" of the polisher or how it reacts. Again...nothing crazy or anything like that. I guess...just expect a different feel with the Flex. Not bad...just different. Heck, if I can handle it I'm thinking just about anyone can.:grinno:
Don't read too much into what I wrote...it's just kinda hard to put into words what I'm referring to. There are many variables (tail placement, angle of pad, pressure, whether you're pushing or pulling the polisher, etc...) that with a PC really didn't mean anything. But with a forced rotation RO, all those things in conjunction with one another effect the "feel" of the polisher or how it reacts. Again...nothing crazy or anything like that. I guess...just expect a different feel with the Flex. Not bad...just different. Heck, if I can handle it I'm thinking just about anyone can.:grinno:
jetset4me
New member
frostydog said:Hey CJ...Welcome to the Club!! :welcome
As DJ notes...it's a small club, but we're growing. With your addition, we just increased our affiliates by 50%. I’d like to see other clubs show that kind of growth rate.
I'm sure you'll enjoy the Flex...do you currently have a PC or another polisher??
Certianly post some pics and thoughts once you get your Flex.
DJ...let us know how the RL turns out. Do you plan on finishing with a different polish/pad? Or are you going to try to finish down with the IP and orange??
Good things are happening in the Flex commune!!:grinno:
Though we do have a man down...
I'm ordering a Flex tomorrow after I find out about the availabiliity of the Flex carrying case from Powerhouse. I was told that their rep is in Germany right now and that Flex is coming out with a new 5.5" backing plate on the new models from Germany. They'll no availability when he returns. Everyone at Powerhouse is so helpful and knowledgeable.
jetset4me said:
Welcome to Autopia Jetset...and it sounds like a "soon to be" welcome to the Flex commune is in order as well.
That's interesting hearing about the possible 5.5" backing plate, keep us updated if you learn more. Though the current BP is 5.9" and seems to work just fine for the larger pad sizes. If they were to release a smaller BP, I think I would've prefered seeing something significantly smaller like a 3.5" BP.
Also, not sure if you saw it...but on the Flex "German" website they have a picture and part number (333.573) for the carrying case. Not sure if that helps...
I called Powerhouse and checked into getting the bag. They said they would have to special order it basically from Germany. They weren't real sure on price, but if memory serves, I think they were talking around $50-$60 after shipping and everything. I picked up another Black and Decker bag / tool cart combo for $25 at Costco for the Flex to live in. They do have some other tool bags that they carry at Powerhouse that I discussed with them.
On the BP, yes, do keep us updated. I'm sure we could order it through Powerhouse as a backup or alternative.
On the BP, yes, do keep us updated. I'm sure we could order it through Powerhouse as a backup or alternative.
Sorry to do this but now I'm torn. I have a PC now but want to step up. I have been going back and forth between the Flex and the Metabo PE12-175. I hate to start a new thead as well as thread jack this one but has anyone had experience with both and can make a clear suggestion as to why they prefer one over the other so I can finaly get off my arse and order one before the snow falls! :hairpull
Please feel free to take it to PM so as not to offend the OP or take this thread off track.
Thanks to all.
Happy :waxing: to all that could finally make a choice :goodjob
Anthony
Please feel free to take it to PM so as not to offend the OP or take this thread off track.
Thanks to all.
Happy :waxing: to all that could finally make a choice :goodjob
Anthony
I know that from reading WK446's post about ordering and receiving his Flex, that he has done some initial comparison between the 3401 and Metabo. I don't think he has made it to the actual polishing/paint correction/gloss part yet. He's posted pics (unfortunately none with Metabo) of Flex and other polishers along with comments on ergonomics, weight, size, etc. Here's a link
http://autopia.org/forum/machine-polishing/97686-flex-xc-3401-vrg.html
http://autopia.org/forum/machine-polishing/97686-flex-xc-3401-vrg.html