Trying to get used to the 3401, some questions

**goathead** · 12-24-2010, 09:17 PM

Got the kids in bed and the presents done so I finally got around to trying out my flex 3401 that I got about a week ago and I'm trying to figure out a few things here.

Background, I've been using a PC7424 for about 3 years now and have achieved excellent results, but I stepped up to a 3401 really to save time. I just tried it out on the hood of my car to see if I could get some of the fine swirls out and ran into a few issues.

It definitely has a different feel to it than the PC with the forced rotation so it took a little bit to get the balance so it wasn't pulling or stopping so I think I have that down.

What I used: Optimum Polish, white Lake Country flat pad and white cobra cross groove

Problems: Product appeared to dry almost instantly and took a ton of effort to wipe off. Seemed like there was virtually no working time at all. Felt like I could have gotten better results with the PC.

What I tried: Originally once I spread the product I cranked it up to 6 and went for it. After the problems I started backing down to 5, then 4 and eventually 3. It seemed to be better on 3 with the Cobra pad, but still had issue with it drying and didn't really get much correction out of it. I was also using less pressure than I would normally with the PC. Usually with the PC I would use only about a dime size dab of the Optimum and it worked good. I also tried different amounts of product here as well and no difference, dried instantly. I just can't figure out what's up...maybe it's the egg nog...

Any help or input is greatly appreciated! Merry Christmas!!!

**skipper1** · 12-24-2010, 09:24 PM

Merry Christmas goathead.
Here is another reason we need some videos on what to expect from different products and how to properly use the Flex 3401.

**goathead** · 12-24-2010, 09:37 PM

Yeah it would be nice for more videos, but I figure that the polisher has been out for a while and a number of people have gone from the PC to this so I can't be the first one to have this issue.

My guess (hope) is that it's something that just needs to be done a wee bit differently like since it generates more heat you need to use more/less product, pressure, speed or some combination there of.

I don't have an endless supply of cars with beat up paint to test on so I've only got so much hands-on opportunity right now...I could go wash the wife's car with a scotch-brite.

**skipper1** · 12-24-2010, 09:51 PM

Sounds like you have a garage to work in, that's great. The Porter Cable has been out longer and look at how many videos there are using it with all the different products.

I live in an apartment complex and have to work outside under a carport. I usually just do a bunch of free ones to get some experience, but my problem is that the weather turned right after I got my Flex. It still hasn't seen a car but it sure would be nice to have a bunch of Flex videos to watch during the cold months. Videos with just the problem you're having and what to expect from the Flex.

Maybe with a little persuasion, Mike can put some together and post them.

**dougaross** · 12-24-2010, 09:56 PM

Priming the pad(Kevin Brown method) or using pad conditioner might improve the workability.

**goathead** · 12-24-2010, 09:57 PM

Originally Posted by dougaross

Priming the pad(Kevin Brown method) or using pad conditioner might improve the workability.

Yup, forgot to mention that, I used the XMT conditioner that came with the package.

**goathead** · 12-24-2010, 10:03 PM

Originally Posted by skipper1

Sounds like you have a garage to work in, that's great. The Porter Cable has been out longer and look at how many videos there are using it with all the different products.

I live in an apartment complex and have to work outside under a carport. I usually just do a bunch of free ones to get some experience, but my problem is that the weather turned right after I got my Flex. It still hasn't seen a car but it sure would be nice to have a bunch of Flex videos to watch during the cold months. Videos with just the problem you're having and what to expect from the Flex.

Maybe with a little persuasion, Mike can put some together and post them.

Yes, having a heated and lit garage is helpful!

I did check out the videos available and product-wise, it looks like the same amounts are being used for either the PC or the Flex so maybe I was just caking up the pad when i used more.

**jonn127** · 12-24-2010, 10:06 PM

have you used the optimum before on your car with the porter? Just wondering if it could be a case of "some products react differently to different surfaces, depending on temps etcs....." at least i think I've read that on here before.

**goathead** · 12-24-2010, 10:10 PM

Originally Posted by jonn127

have you used the optimum before on your car with the porter? Just wondering if it could be a case of "some products react differently to different surfaces, depending on temps etcs....." at least i think I've read that on here before.

Funny you mention that, I've never polished this car before. I picked it up used in the summer and just have been busy with other cars that all I did to mine was wax it. I think I might pull out the PC and see if I have the same issue. Good thought man!

**Crazy Amos** · 12-24-2010, 10:16 PM

When you standing size amount, is that one spot or three equally spaced. The flex does build heat especially on 6-I dont think you are using enough product. Just to check-are you cleaning the pad between sections?