Flex3401vrg or Rupes Bigfoot?

[WRAPT C5Z06]

^^ was waiting for you to post some more details, Mark - you were (are?) very vocal about the 3401. which worked better, for you, on the Z?

Yes, I go back and forth on the 3401. I always seem to come back to it because of the forced rotation(consistent) polishing results. I used them both on the Z and they worked very well. If I HAD to choose 1, I'd go with the 3401. Recently, I learned a tip from Bunky(Al) that's REALLY helped me with the 3401; don't try to whip the polisher around, take your time and let the polisher move on its own, while just guiding it. Great advice. The LC Hybrid pads are easily the best pads to use with the 3401, IMO.

[Becciasm]

Yes, I go back and forth on the 3401. I always seem to come back to it because of the forced rotation(consistent) polishing results. I used them both on the Z and they worked very well. If I HAD to choose 1, I'd go with the 3401. Recently, I learned a tip from Bunky(Al) that's REALLY helped me with the 3401; don't try to whip the polisher around, take your time and let the polisher move on its own, while just guiding it. Great advice. The LC Hybrid pads are easily the best pads to use with the 3401, IMO.

Thanks Mark.

[WRAPT C5Z06]

Thanks Mark.

Are you trying to decide as well?

[ocmike]

I unfortunately started with a baby polisher and now I'm in need of something that really works. I was all set to pick up the Flex3401 when Rupes Bigfoot hit the scene. Is Rupes now the go to polisher using the washer trick to get better rotation? or is the Flex3401 still king? I have 2 days and 18 hours to get this figured out before the sale is over. Thank you for any thoughts you may be able to provide.

Haz

Like you, I started out with a different machine before purchasing the Flex or the Rupes. I had little knowledge (and technique) using a polisher until I was fortunate to take a detailing class at Meguiars in Orange County, CA. After the class, my knowledge, technique, and efficiency improved tremendously. I had one of the best (if not the best) instructors in the nation. Shortly after the class, I ordered the Flex 3401, which I have used for about 3 years. Recently, after reading all the "hype," I purchased the Rupes 21. I enjoy both machines equally. I have my Flex equipped with the LC interchangeable backing plates. However, I'm prone to leave the 4" backing plate on the Flex and use the 5" LC Hybrid pads for smaller areas and use the Rupes 21 on larger panels. This enables me to have to machines ready to go without having to change backing plates and/or pads in the middle of a job. Call it lazy, efficient, expensive, or crazy. But it works for me.

So, the short story is if you have the money, get both. If you don't, beg, borrow, (don't steal) from someone to let you try theirs. I wouldn't let the sale "meter" force you to buy something you may not like. AG runs sales continuously; therefore, you won't be missing out on a good deal. Additionally, if you have not taken a detailing class, I would encourage you to do so. You'll get a lot of "drive time" using the various machines that will assist you in making a decision. Whatever you decide, you will have one (or both) of the best machines on the market. Good luck!

Oh, did I tell you who my great instructor was? Mike Phillips! I was fortunate to be in his last class at Meguiars before Mike made his trek to AG. He's the best! Mike's knowledge and skills are over the top and the folks at AG are very lucky to have him on staff.

Sorry to get a little off topic, but I thought since AG is not only recognizing the July 4th holiday and recognizing Mike's anniversary with the company, I wanted to give him kudos as well. We miss you Mike!

[WRAPT C5Z06]

I enjoy both machines equally. I have my Flex equipped with the LC interchangeable backing plates. However, I'm prone to leave the 4" backing plate on the Flex and use the 5" LC Hybrid pads for smaller areas and use the Rupes 21 on larger panels. This enables me to have to machines ready to go without having to change backing plates and/or pads in the middle of a job. Call it lazy, efficient, expensive, or crazy. But it works for me.

Smart man.

Are you using the Rupes with the washer mod?

[Mike Phillips]

Oh, did I tell you who my great instructor was? Mike Phillips! I was fortunate to be in his last class at Meguiars before Mike made his trek to AG. He's the best! Mike's knowledge and skills are over the top and the folks at AG are very lucky to have him on staff.

Sorry to get a little off topic, but I thought since AG is not only recognizing the July 4th holiday and recognizing Mike's anniversary with the company, I wanted to give him kudos as well. We miss you Mike!

Wow! Thanks Mike...

Good times in the past and more good times to come...

I'm not suffering too much out here on the East Coast...

[WRAPT C5Z06]

I WILL stick to my guns and say that MF pads(w/ washer mod) work MUCH better on the Rupes compared to 3401. Foam and foamed wool is where it's at with the 3401.

[JSou]

I will have both after last weekend's meetup.

I love how smooth and effortless it is with the Rupes but you are correct...the power of the 3401 is undeniable.

[FUNX650]

Hi Haz...

-According to the reports/reviews of using a forced rotation (Flex3401VRG): It may, indeed, be daunting.

-And...
If you were to purchase a RUPES ("15" or "21") and defeat their built-in safety feature(s)...by installing the "washer-mod"...

Then, in my honest opinion:
You'd be better off purchasing either the FLEX PE14-2-150 or FLEX L3403 VRG Lightweight rotary/circular polishers...
that will provide: "The German quality you've come to expect from FLEX".

One of these Flex rotary/circular polishers will be a guarantee to ensure what you so desire:

I unfortunately started with a "baby polisher" and now I'm in need of something that really works.

Use the "baby polisher" to follow-up behind a rotary polisher, when/where needed.



Bob

[Becciasm]

Are you trying to decide as well?

Not really. I'm going to step up to the VRG when budget allows. It's honestly a $$$ thing with me over the Rupes. This isn't a significant income generator for me, so budget reigns for now

I will have both after last weekend's meetup.

I love how smooth and effortless it is with the Rupes but you are correct...the power of the 3401 is undeniable.

It was great that we had that opportunity. I would agree that if the means are there to pick up both - Using my "baby polisher" GG 6" yesterday i was longing for the smooth operation of the two on this thread!

I WILL stick to my guns and say that MF pads(w/ washer mod) work MUCH better on the Rupes compared to 3401. Foam and foamed wool is where it's at with the 3401.

Noted. We had a lot of success with the hybrid pads on the flex.

Hi Haz...

-According to the reports/reviews of using a forced rotation (Flex3401VRG): It may, indeed, be daunting.

-And...
If you were to purchase a RUPES ("15" or "21") and defeat their built-in safety feature(s)...by installing the "washer-mod"...

Then, in my honest opinion:
You'd be better off purchasing either the FLEX PE14-2-150 or FLEX L3403 VRG Lightweight rotary/circular polishers...
that will provide: "The German quality you've come to expect from FLEX".

One of these Flex rotary/circular polishers will be a guarantee to ensure what you so desire:


Use the "baby polisher" to follow-up behind a rotary polisher, when/where needed.



Bob

rotary is in my future.

Sorry for the Jack, Haz, but yeah, i think everyone has your 'dilemma' I'm sure you'll be satisfied with either purchase.

Don't lose the other DA though - i'm slowly learning that the more the better, and you can use your other DA with different size pads - say 3" BP and 3.5/4", and keep your flex/rupes for the larger pads