Which size CSS Pad to use with FLEX 3401?

**buffguy** · 10-23-2011, 06:16 PM

I'm not sure which pad size I should use with the flex 3401. It comes with 5.5 backplate for 6.5 inch pads. I hear that people don't like large pads. Is there a smaller size backplate or pad that detailers prefer to use with the flex 3401?

**Rsurfer** · 10-23-2011, 06:24 PM

Originally Posted by buffguy

I'm not sure which pad size I should use with the flex 3401. It comes with 5.5 backplate for 6.5 inch pads. I hear that people don't like large pads. Is there a smaller size backplate or pad that detailers prefer to use with the flex 3401?

You do mean CCS pads? Flex has a 4 3/8" bp for 5-5.5" pads.

**buffguy** · 10-23-2011, 06:36 PM

Originally Posted by Rsurfer

You do mean CCS pads? Flex has a 4 3/8" bp for 5-5.5" pads.

Yeah the CSS. Is it better to use 6.5 or 5.5/5 pads?

**Old Tiger** · 10-23-2011, 06:39 PM

IME the Flex works fine with 6.5 pads since it is forced rotation. I will buy the new 6" BP when it is released. Ron is spot on if you want smaller pads.

**Twister** · 10-23-2011, 06:41 PM

I've used both but I prefer 5.5. It's really just personal preference though

**Rsurfer** · 10-23-2011, 07:01 PM

Originally Posted by buffguy

Yeah the CSS. Is it better to use 6.5 or 5.5/5 pads?

It's called CCS (collapsed cell structure). 6.5" pads will work with the 3401, but I prefer the smaller 5.5" flat pads and not the CCS pads.

**buffguy** · 10-23-2011, 07:30 PM

Originally Posted by Rsurfer

It's called CCS (collapsed cell structure). 6.5" pads will work with the 3401, but I prefer the smaller 5.5" flat pads and not the CCS pads.

ops i found the 5.5 for flat pad. thanks

**Old Pirate** · 10-23-2011, 07:34 PM

The new FLEX XC3401VRG Backing Plate that came out this year is 4 3/8 inches in diameter and allows you to use 5 or 5.5 inch pads with your FLEX XC3401 DA polisher.This plate is designed specifically for this polisher,the design forces a true dual action motion, rather than jiggling (like the PC).The backing plate’s fit and design reduce vibration and give you a smoother, more comfortable motion and using the Lake Country Hydro-Tech 5 1/2 x 7/8 Inch Foam Pads. The slim profile of the Lake Country Hydro-Tech 5 1/2 x 7/8 Inch Foam Pads makes them ideal for buffing hard, scratch-resistant paint finishes with a dual action polisher ( FLEX ) and get a faster result also.