Flex 3401 vs PC7424XP

[jreblackGT]

I recently got a new PC and am pleased the results I've been able to achieve with it on mild to moderately swirled finishes with UC and Menz 203 in a one step process. That said, I'm limited to using someone else's garage so time involved is a concern.
Given the additional speed and forced rotation of the Flex 3401 is it reasonable to expect that a two step correction (Menz 203/85rd) could be achieved with the Flex in the same amount of time that a one step correction could be done with the PC? I'm inclined to think so but would appreciate some input from those of you with more experience. Thanks in advance for any advice.

[alko]

I'm definitely going to watch for the responses. I am in the same exact boat.

[toycar18]

[ame=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yht1uHJLNlQ]Flex XC 3401 VRG vs. Porter Cable 7424 - YouTube[/video]

[OCDetails]

My experience with going from the 7424 to the 3401 was that the Flex machine saved me about 30% of my time in the detail. It doesn't do anything the PC can't do, but it does do it quicker as well as giving you some efficiency. Just the fact that the variable speed trigger on the Flex allows me to slow down the pad when I hit a leading edge or hood scoop instead of having to stop the machine, change the speed, turn back on the machine, then stop it again, change the speed, and turn it back on saves me quite a bit of time. I've been able to add a whole other car into my detailing day with the efficiency that the Flex 3401 gives me.

If you are in a situation where time is money, then the Flex 3401 will pay for itself in a matter of a couple days just in the additional revenue you can generate. It is an awesome addition to any detailing arsenal ESPECIALLY if time is money. If you are just a guy taking care of your own car then you may not care that this goes faster, but most of us would rather take 2 hours to do a 3 hour job regardless of whether or not we are getting paid for it.

[jreblackGT]

Thanks Toycar. That video and comments posted here lead me to believe that the answer to my question is yes. Anyone with personal experience care to comment?
Thanks Ocdetails. That's what I was hoping for.

[BobbyG]

Flex 3401



Porter Cable 7424xp



The Flex 3401 has Forced Rotation, more power, higher speeds; all which provide more efficient paint correction.

[jreblackGT]

Thanks BobbyG. Hey Alko, it looks like our Christmas list just got started huh.

[toycar18]

Go with the Flex.

Chances of you upgrading to the flex from the porter are very likely anyways.... sometime in the future.

Time is money.... even if you don't have a detail business like myself. I can get done quicker and go watch football sooner

[05xrunner]

I had the Flex and PC(old one) I sold the PC and then got the Griots..Shortly after I got the griots I sold the Flex..I just never used it since how well the MF pads work and the low profile Hydrotech pads. The flex is nice sure and powerful but it was more of a chore to use especially on side panels when your not perfectly flat and you gotta fight it not running away from you. I did my neighbors car. Started out with the flex Tangerine HT pad and menz Power finish...I got sick of it and was getting some dust..So i switched to the Griots Megs Finishing pad with power finish got better results faster

[tw33k2514]

I had the Flex and PC(old one) I sold the PC and then got the Griots..Shortly after I got the griots I sold the Flex..I just never used it since how well the MF pads work and the low profile Hydrotech pads. The flex is nice sure and powerful but it was more of a chore to use especially on side panels when your not perfectly flat and you gotta fight it not running away from you. I did my neighbors car. Started out with the flex Tangerine HT pad and menz Power finish...I got sick of it and was getting some dust..So i switched to the Griots Megs Finishing pad with power finish got better results faster

That is the same path I see myself taking. I am getting frustrated with the PCXP...