3401 plate damage

[Danube]

This is interesting.

A few years back someone from LC or AG would chime in making sure the faulty product is replaced.

I have posted the above issue with my backing plate, Eric from LC asked for my postal address, but that was it. I was never contacted again.

And this b/plate was used only a handful of times, before it disintegrated, as per pics above.

Whats going on Lake Country?

/

[David at LC Pads]

Danube -

I'm Sorry that a follow up on your backing plate wasn't done. Could you please email me your address and I will get this taken care of for you ASAP.

David.Patterson@LakeCountryMfg.com

Additionally for other poster -
While I have seen issues with these plates, I have seen many that are over tightened. While we don't have a "torque spec", just make sure you aren't cranking down on it too much. This can definitely cause it to break also.

[Mike Phillips]

This is interesting.

A few years back someone from LC or AG would chime in making sure the faulty product is replaced.

We're still here and still taking care of our customers.

Additionally for other poster -
While I have seen issues with these plates, I have seen many that are over tightened. While we don't have a "torque spec", just make sure you aren't cranking down on it too much. This can definitely cause it to break also.

Hi David and thank you for chiming in.

I wish reps from all the companies we carry could and would have a presence on our forum, it's always to their benefit.


When issues with a product arise, and they do, the most important thing is to get the feedback to the company that makes the product so they can investigate and if needed take action.

Feedback is crucial, it's not a negative or a positive thing it's simply communication to bring awareness of an issue.


So thank you to both David and Eric for being proactive on our forum, it's greatly appreciated.

[Chevota Guy]

I just used my Flex 3401 with the 4" backing plate for the first time and did a full size Tundra and a Tahoe including the roofs. I am sold on the LC kit, and will keep an eye on it after reading this helpful thread. Although I'm not expecting any problems, it's great to see both the OEM and AGO step up to support customers .

[Ron Atchison]

From Tato's picture documentation I can see where the raised are in the center of the BP mounting surface could very well cause it to fail. With the BP constantly flexing even the small a small amount over time could fatigue the plastic to the point of failure. It seems the obvious cure was to make sure the mounting surface is flat which LC has done with the new plates. A simple remedy if you have a backing plate with the raised area would be to first inspect the plate and if no stress cracks are found simply file it flat.

[richy]

From Tato's picture documentation I can see where the raised are in the center of the BP mounting surface could very well cause it to fail. With the BP constantly flexing even the small a small amount over time could fatigue the plastic to the point of failure. It seems the obvious cure was to make sure the mounting surface is flat which LC has done with the new plates. A simple remedy if you have a backing plate with the raised area would be to first inspect the plate and if no stress cracks are found simply file it flat.

Good idea. I'll be inspecting mine tomorrow.


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[EVOlved]

Good excuse to buy a Rupes!

Or buy the backing plates made by Flex which would still make it an equivalent to two Rupes in pad acceptance.

[Ron Atchison]

Good excuse to buy a Rupes!

I have both machines and the Rupes isn't perfect either. Failing speed controls, delaminating BP's, stiff power cords.

Or buy the backing plates made by Flex which would still make it an equivalent to two Rupes in pad acceptance.

Flex doesn't make a 4" BP. That's what makes the LC kit so attractive to most people. I just wish they sold it separately.

[EVOlved]

Flex doesn't make a 4" BP. That's what makes the LC kit so attractive to most people. I just wish they sold it separately.

I know that's why I have a smaller machine with a 3.5" plate

[VISITOR]

I have both machines and the Rupes isn't perfect either. Failing speed controls, delaminating BP's, stiff power cords.

agreed. the QC on the Rupes can use some improvement. while the outside appearance of a polisher doesn't affect the overall performance (if you pay a high premium, it should look dayum near perfect), IME the Rupes looks like they may have dropped or dragged it on the ground a little. IMO, the Flex QC is better. not to mention they have a service center that's been around for years...