Is my flex SUPPOSED to get this hot?

**Justin at Final Inspection** · 10-16-2014, 08:55 AM

Yeah Like stated earlier, I use just a dab of air tool oil on that felt ring before I start a car. Have used my 3401 since June and although it gets a little hot I have had no issues with the 4-3/8 backing plate and 5.5in CCS pads from LC.

**Alek@DeepClean** · 10-16-2014, 10:19 AM

Just got a response from David at LC, he stated that the damage to my plate is consistent with what they've seen before. He is sending me a new kit with the updated design. I'll give this a shot along with lubricating the felt ring and see how that goes for me. I'll be sure to update this thread so anyone else having this issue can have the info available!

As far as the extension cord, I'm using a 25' 16g cord which is plenty for the Flex.

**02xtreme07SS** · 10-16-2014, 10:56 AM

Originally Posted by Alek@DeepClean

As far as the extension cord, I'm using a 25' 16g cord which is plenty for the Flex.

It's borderline, but just slightly undersized for the the current draw. The FLEX 3401 draws 10.4 amps. A 16g extension cord at 25' is roughly rated 10A. Based on the available NEC information, I would step up to a 14g at the very least.

**Alek@DeepClean** · 10-16-2014, 11:09 AM

16g at 25' is good for 13 amps, not 10. 14 can handle 15.

**02xtreme07SS** · 10-16-2014, 11:19 AM

Originally Posted by Alek@DeepClean

16g at 25' is good for 13 amps, not 10. 14 can handle 15.

You're right, I misread the NEC/UL chart. 2 current carrying conductor 16g 0-50' is 13A. I misquoted the 3 current carrying conductor 16g 0-50' which is only 10A.

**Garyhw48** · 10-16-2014, 12:25 PM

Originally Posted by Alek@DeepClean

Just got a response from David at LC, he stated that the damage to my plate is consistent with what they've seen before. He is sending me a new kit with the updated design. I'll give this a shot along with lubricating the felt ring and see how that goes for me. I'll be sure to update this thread so anyone else having this issue can have the info available!

As far as the extension cord, I'm using a 25' 16g cord which is plenty for the Flex.

I am confused. Ordered the LC changeable plate system last week. The plates were back ordered. Received the rest of the order last week. In a few days received the plates. I assumed they would be new from LC since they were back ordered but they still came with the two washers, shims, to keep the center of the 6 inch plate from getting hot.

If you would, when you receive the new plates from LC, please post whether or not they send you the shims. I would just like to get a clearer understanding of what's going on with this issue. I wish they would have at least put a piece of paper in the package explaining the whole thing. I mounted the 4 inch plate, without the shims, so I can use my 4 inch Nanoskin pads but don't plan on using the 6 inch.

I searched for all of the info that I could find on this and it seems that the issue was with the larger plates but I really don't know. Thanks

**bigdaddy65** · 10-16-2014, 02:16 PM

My replacement from David has three shims and he specifically said to use all three.

**Alek@DeepClean** · 10-16-2014, 02:50 PM

Yep, David informed me to use the shims he's sending as well.

**Garyhw48** · 10-16-2014, 04:21 PM

Originally Posted by Alek@DeepClean

Yep, David informed me to use the shims he's sending as well.

It's not really important but I don't consider describing, adding a extra shim, as an updated design. Mine came with two shims and quoting the front of the bag they were in " Base Gear Plate with 4" & 6" Accessory Plates, Screw, Washer & 2 Shims For 6" Plate"

Please don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining, I just think it's a little sloppy the way they are handling this. The hex screw that they sent takes a 6mm wrench, which I had, that is bigger than the 5mm wrench that came with the Flex.

I will put the shims under the 4" plate and forget it. I am happy with the plates and like the quality of their buffing pads. Thanks for responding with the info.