Flex 3401 generates a lot of heat?!

[allenk4]

I used my new FLEX 3401 for the first time today and it shut off three times.

I was using the factory 5.5" backing plate that I had ground down to accommodate a 5.5" pad.

I was polishing the hood on my Yukon with a white CCS pad and Wolfgang Total Swirl Remover. Six passes on 4 sections, cleaning on the fly between sections, so the FLEX got some rest between panels.....shut down.

Let it rest for 10 minutes....fired right back up.

Two more sections with WGTSR to finish the hood...two sections on each of the front quarter panels....shut down again.

Changed over to a blue CCS pad and Wolfgang Glaze for three section passes x10 sections....shut down after 7th section.

My old 7424 never shut down or got this hot.

I could not touch any of the metal portions of the polisher after 30 minutes of work.

Is this normal?

Calling FLEX North America on Monday.

[rmagnus]

I've never had my 3401 shut off on me. I can't really say I've run the polisher for more than 30 minutes at a time. I clean pads and also change them out frequently at least every panel. Every polishe I own heats up just not to a point I get concerned about it.

Il try and be more aware of run time next time I use it and will use an infred heat gun to erasure it.

[mbret2004]

Agree with Dave. Anytime you have friction you will create heat. Aluminum dissipates heat rapidly hence the choice on the Flex. Many car engines have aluminum parts for the same reason.

Personally, I would use the tool without worry. Be aware it gets hot and handle accordingly.

[allenk4]

I posted regarding my 1st time using the 3401 and overheating.

I used it again yesterday for 3 hours straight and the problem did not recur.

Same pads.
Same products.
Same ambient air temperature.
Same working intervals.

Maybe it just needed a breaking-in period?

The aluminum housing does get very hot and you have to watch your hand placement.

Starting off with a PC 7424 was great, but once you work with the FLEX...you will be amazed at what you are able to accomplish and how rapidly the results come.

[richy]

I was running mine the other day using a black TB wool pad. The housing was getting hot (not burning hot, but hot enough), so when I would use my air compressor to blow out the pad, I would also shoot the air on the housing at the same time. That kept it cool.

[Bunky]

I was running mine the other day using a black TB wool pad. The housing was getting hot (not burning hot, but hot enough), so when I would use my air compressor to blow out the pad, I would also shoot the air on the housing at the same time. That kept it cool.

My Rupes 15 transfer heat to the pad more than my Flex. The backing plate must be one key.

[erichaley]

While the machine does indeed run hot, have you ever lubed the felt ring under the backing plate? Might help a little (though it will still get hot)...

[hernandez.art13]

I've been thinking of attaching a "D" shape handle on my PC. I left the side handle on (for leverage) but have been using the back of it more and more. And I use the handle to carry it.

When I purchase my next DA I want to first use it how it is, and try to get used to it, then attach a handle if it's possible and if I have to.

If these machines are getting so hot, I don't see why a small D shape handle isn't made?

http://i1079.photobucket.com/albums/...psc42a8a60.jpg

Like this ^
But small handle would be nice (for better grip and less heat transfer IMO

[BostonSam]

I had my 3401 completely die on me after owning it for a month with minimal use. I opened it up and one of the connector where completely cut off, which was very odd since it was brand spanking new. I contacted Flex NA and I shipped it to Power House Tools and fix it right up. haven't had any issues since I love my 3401! hope this helps. Cheers!

[allenk4]

Neither the pad nor the backing plate got hot, just the aluminum housing.