Will Flex release its own geared large throw dual action soon?

**irsankao** · 10-03-2014, 09:04 AM

As subject.

We all probably the next big thing after rupes probably geared large throw DA polisher. I wonder if any gossips or news that Flex will make it happen, probably on drawing board or some sorts.

**dpk20x** · 10-03-2014, 09:26 AM

They have a new machine coming out in a few months. Personally I don't think it's gonna be a large throw DA. They don't need to copy Rupes.

**dpk20x** · 10-03-2014, 09:27 AM

I take that back new machine is being introduced at the end of this month. Can't believe it's October already!

**Justin at Final Inspection** · 10-03-2014, 10:20 AM

Yeah I think with the forced rotation that eliminates some of the need of a large throw DA.

As much as I would like a Rupes I feel that the forced rotation really is a game changer. Hence why I bought a 3401!!!!

**Kamakaz1961** · 10-03-2014, 11:55 AM

Originally Posted by dpk20x

They have a new machine coming out in a few months. Personally I don't think it's gonna be a large throw DA. They don't need to copy Rupes.

I think the 3401 VRG is a great DA as is....if it ain't broke don't fix it. The Flex IMO is superior to any Rupes or any other DA. My guess is a Flex 3" DA similar to the GG 3" or Rupes 3". That would be cool.

**Mike@DedicatedPerfection** · 10-03-2014, 12:30 PM

I love my Flex tools to death and I think that a long throw gear driven DA would not be a good idea.

There are a lot of stories of people mentioning the walking effect. Imagine a 6.5" pad being gear driven and traveling 21mm! I imagine it would be very violent and hard to control.

Not a good idea but I could be wrong.

**Tato** · 10-03-2014, 01:32 PM

For me, Flex will release a Random Orbital Polisher with free spindle mechanism, that they still don't offer.

It'll be called FLEX ROP, which stands for the random orbital. It will also be possible to use it as a sander, because of the free spindle mechanism and 12mm throw offered.

The FLEX ROP will come with 3 sizes of backing plates, 3", 4", and 5.5".

It's body will be very likely the Porter Cable XP, but dressed in carmine and black, with Flex stamped in white.

(Sure I'm just speculating...!) hahahah

Kind Regards.

**aim4squirrels** · 10-03-2014, 01:54 PM

Doubtful they ever will.

Larger throw means larger centripetal force. If that force is directly transmitted to the machine via a set of connected gears, the stability of the machine will be greatly affected.

It'll shake like the dickens.

**10secdream** · 10-03-2014, 02:41 PM

I am hoping for a Flex Mini with forced rotation.

**VISITOR** · 10-03-2014, 09:06 PM

Originally Posted by Smokinss

Yeah I think with the forced rotation that eliminates some of the need of a large throw DA.

you make a good point. the forced rotation is nice because the consistency of pad rotation. also, i think the flex oscillates a few hundred more times per minute (most use it at higher speed setting) if i'm not mistaken which would make up for the larger throw of the rupes. as far as the walking of the flex, i've never really had a problem with that and it teaches you to have good technique in keeping the machine/pad straight on the surface. one thing though that i like about the flex over the rupes is the QC, which is better IMO. flex does their homework so you know you're getting your $'s worth in a slid product...