Franken-flex modded 3401

So I'm the curious, tinkering type and I can't seem to leave anything alone. I had some leftover 3m 1080 vinyl from a set of wheels, so why not!? Also, trimmed down the backing plate to 4 15/16" to fit the 5.5" buff and shine flat pads that I prefer for this machine.

My newest "tinker" is a PE14 style head cap that replaces the bulky bale handle and places your hand almost 1 1/2" closer to the rotating assembly- mimicking the ergonomics of all the new Flex polishers. I achieved this by taking a PE14 head cap, cutting the crap out of it and mating it to the bottom part of the 3401 head cap piece. The prototype you see in the picture is actually my first casting out of rigid urethane, poured into a silicone mold. Its terribly ugly, and has at least 5 VERY heavy coats of plastic dip on it!

The plan is to replicate the (shiny black) head cap, by pouring another silicone mold, and casting new parts. My hang up at the moment, is the grip. The shiny cap looks cool, but is so smooth that it wouldn't provide adequate grip under normal operating conditions (or would it? I guess we'll find out).

Nevertheless, I'm having fun! Stay tuned
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I like it.
I use mine without the handle so I can dig it.

The bale handle hinders my sight.

Interesting. Will be on the lookout for the next update.

.


Cool.

I want one.


:)

So I poured some parts finally- and this is proving to be quite a challenge. In an effort to make a "soft grip" feel on the cap, I decided to head to Alumilite (a mold and resin company about 20 miles from me) and pitch them my idea. I have had great success with their products in the past and also great customer interaction with their entire team.

I decided to go with a product of theirs called "flex 40" (ironic that this is for a FLEX polisher 😂). It's a 40A durometer urethane resin that will be added to the mold first and then chemically bonds to the structural layer.

I got the process kinda down, but am still not producing the type of parts I want, and will eventually like to sell.

In the meantime, I have my 3401 modded with one of these caps, and I must say, I like the "squish" quite a bit. It seems to tone down a little vibration and gives the "updated" flex feel and ergonomics.

I'm going to put the 3401 to use for a few hours this weekend on a boat and will be sure to check in on how the grip holds up!

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