Flex XC3401, Rupes Mille, or Makita

[minirips2]

Hi, Mike! I just finished reading the thread concerning these three polishers, and the biggest conclusion I got was that we have way too many engineers on this forum! Just kidding. it was very informative, but my main concern is what these machines feel like to use, and which has the easiest learning curve. I currently use a PC7424 and GG3. I'm working on my own cars, so all-out speed of correction isn't my biggest concern, although that may change when I tackle my wife's minivan. I like the PC7424, it's a sturdy, powerful machine, but the vibrations put my hands to sleep after an hour or two. I'm primarily interested in how smooth the machines run, and how controllable they are when working near obstacles like antennas or washer nozzles. Price isn't a big issue, since I am a major "tool geek", and I can talk myself into anything. I also have a deep appreciation for well engineered and made tools. Right now, I'm gravitating towards the Mille.
Any impressions on how these function ergonomically would be appreciated.
Edit: I found your review on the Mille. I think I will give it a go. Some people seem to love the Flex, and some don't. I like the clockwise rotation of the Mille, because I used to grind and occasionally polish aluminum aircraft propeller blades, and this action should feel somewhat familiar.

[Mike@ShineStruck]

With all of them pad choice can dictate how controlable the machine is in certain instances like on curves (pads that contour will less likely make machine walk vs a stiff pad)

Balance/smoothest will be the mille and very close 2nd will be the Makita PO5000C
.again pad selection dictates this.

There's absolutely no reason to pick up a 3401 anymore if you're considering a forced D/A.. other two are simply more refined and enhanced over then flex.

PO5000C will be the quickest at correction due to having the most RPM.. second being the mille.

Imo Makita is most ergonomic, but if you tend to not use the front handle, then mille has a huge shroud you can wrap your hand around.

Even if both mille and Makita did correct slower (which they don't) both are super smooth and won't beat you up, nor get hot like the flex.

You can turn the Makita into a 3in forced
Both Makita and Rupes has progressive triggers.. don't recall my 3401 having this, haven't used it in monthsa

[minirips2]

Thanks for the input, Mike! I'm ordering the Rupes Mille. Like I stated in my original post, vibration is really getting to me. The clockwise rotation of the Mille is a plus. If it handles as well as MP clams in his review, it should be a winner and give me many years of good service. I'll start with the Mille system pads and polishes, and maybe play with some other options.

[Mike@ShineStruck]

MILLE PADS will obviously work well
Lake country Thinpros will work well too
As with the foam inner layer pads such as LC newer lambs wool and their new HDO inner layer foam wool

B&S uro finisher wool will work well too..again due to the inner foam layer

[B5visser]

Both Makita and Rupes has progressive triggers.. don't recall my 3401 having this, haven't used it in monthsa

3401 DOES have a progressive trigger FWIW.

Mike, Thanks for all your input! I find your recommendations are spot on as to what I've experienced thus far with these tools as well. I have the 3401, but it has never been "fun" for me to use (IMO), but it does "just work," which I like.

I got to use the Makita at Detailfest and really didn't want to put it down- it was smooth, quiet and very easy to handle.

I have a Mille in the mail that should be here tomorrow! I'll be sure to log some hours and also post my findings! Listening to Todd Helme and Jason Rose talk about it (and the Rupes system as a whole), its clear that user experience is at the top of their list when designing a "system."

[minirips2]

I was considering the LC CCS pads, but I see what you mean that the Thin Pros would transfer energy to the paint better. I may have to try that. Darn-this is addicting!

[jolo]

Subd for review.

[Mike Phillips]

Hi, Mike! I just finished reading the thread concerning these three polishers, and the biggest conclusion I got was that we have way too many engineers on this forum! Just kidding. it was very informative, but my main concern is what these machines feel like to use, and which has the easiest learning curve.

I currently use a PC7424 and GG3. I'm working on my own cars, so all-out speed of correction isn't my biggest concern, although that may change when I tackle my wife's minivan.

I like the PC7424, it's a sturdy, powerful machine, but the vibrations put my hands to sleep after an hour or two. I'm primarily interested in how smooth the machines run, and how controllable they are when working near obstacles like antennas or washer nozzles. Price isn't a big issue, since I am a major "tool geek", and I can talk myself into anything. I also have a deep appreciation for well engineered and made tools.

Right now, I'm gravitating towards the Mille.

Any impressions on how these function ergonomically would be appreciated.

Edit: I found your review on the Mille. I think I will give it a go. Some people seem to love the Flex, and some don't. I like the clockwise rotation of the Mille, because I used to grind and occasionally polish aluminum aircraft propeller blades, and this action should feel somewhat familiar.

Wow!

Before I could answer your questions you've already found your answers!


Have fun with your new Mille.

[Mike Phillips]

For those that read this thread into the future, here's my review of the Mille and the Makita PO5000C


Review: RUPES BIGFOOT MILLE LK 900E by Mike Phillips

The RUPES BIGFOOT MILLE LK 900E Gear-Driven Orbital Polisher








Review: Makita PO5000C Orbital Polisher - Gear-driven and Free Spinning - Mike Phillips

Makita PO5000C Orbital Polisher

[minirips2]

Nice review, Mike! It might be nice to see a video of the Mille system in use, but I'm sure you have a lot of irons in the fire. Thank you for your fast response.
Doug