Every Time I try to do Paint Correction with Flex 3401 The Backing Plate starts coming apart-

[ShineTimeDetail]

So when I apply decent pressure the the 3401 I get these pieces of black plastic that are coming from the backing plate. I understand I'm applying pressure but don't you have to apply pressure on a orbital polisher? I'm not sitting on this polisher so I don't see why this is happening.

[Kaban]

Whaaaaaaat? Man what version of the Flex do you have? I remember reading WAY back that the first model had a defective backing plate that would not holdup. The current one has that thin foam layer between the hook and loop material and the rear plastic framing. I just can't imagine the updated version (which has been out for years) giving anyone any trouble. Most rugged BP I've seen myself.

Take a picture.

[badhemi]

Mine did the same thing when i first got it. After the third full detail it finally quit.

[Mike Phillips]

Something doesn't sound right?

I've tortured mine recently on a truck project with a 6.5" PFW and no issues at all.

We've tortured them here on project cars and no problems...

I would take the backing plate off and inspect to see where the plastic is coming from and inspect everything else that's accessible and visible.


:)

[Mike Phillips]

Here's some pretty good pictures of a normal Flex 3401 with no damage an no issues...

Lubricating the Felt Ring on the Flex 3401 (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/tricks-tips-techniques/34201-lubricating-felt-ring-flex-3401-a.html)


First there is no official recommendation from Flex on this procedure but most owners of the Flex 3401 like to lubricate the Felt Ring to ensure there are no issues between it and the hard plastic backing material that it comes into contact with during operation.

For preventative maintenance reasons, it's okay to lubricate the felt ring after purchase and periodically depending upon how much use your Flex 3401 sees.

What to use?I went to NAPA and purchased some Air Tool Lubricant, (see picture), but any light machine oil should work including the traditional 3-in-1 Oil.


Here's the felt ring on the Flex 3401
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/740/Oiling3401Flex01.jpg


Here I've placed some oil on my finger ...
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/740/Oiling3401Flex02.jpg


and then spread it onto the felt ring...
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/740/Oiling3401Flex03.jpg


You can see the oil penetrate into the felt to lubricate it and from here it will migrate through the felt...
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/740/Oiling3401Flex04.jpg


You could also place some drops around the felt ring and then spread it and work it in using your finger...
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/740/Oiling3401Flex05.jpg


This brand new Flex 3401 is ready to go to work for a new project next week...
http://www.autogeekonline.net/gallery/data/740/Oiling3401Flex06.jpg

[Mike Phillips]

This thread has some pictures too...

New 4" and 6" Backing Plates for Flex 3401 (http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/new-car-care-products/40410-new-4-6-backing-plates-flex-3401-a.html)



:buffing:

[BobbyG]

The one I purchased nearly 2 years ago has performed flawlessly. I've never had anything loosen up and have put enough pressure on the pad to nearly make it flat...:props:

Many here including Mike use an oil periodically on the felt ring. Because oil can migrate or drip if too much is used I use a light synthetic grease. It lasts much longer, won't migrate or drip, and provides a better lubrication barrier....in my opinion of course! :laughing:

Shooters Choice Grease (http://www.midwayusa.com/product/320634/shooters-choice-all-weather-high-tech-gun-grease-10cc-syringe)

[badhemi]

It was from the plate. It only did it when it was hot. It would shoot out little shards of plastic all over the working area. I bought another plate an that fixed the problem. Other than that it works great and saves me alot of time.

[ShineTimeDetail]

It was from the plate. It only did it when it was hot. It would shoot out little shards of plastic all over the working area. I bought another plate an that fixed the problem. Other than that it works great and saves me alot of time.

Yes its from the plate. It comes from the plate I guess where it touches the housing when moderate pressure is applied. Little shards go everywhere.