Need info quickly for Rupes polishers

[Calendyr]

Hey guys,

I placed an order for a Bigfoot 21 Rupes Polisher with the idea of putting my 5" backing plate on it.

After someone on the forum told me I need to use Rupes' backing plate I went to place an order for it but it says it's designed specifically for the Bigfoot 15ES.

Can I use that backing plate on the 21?

Thanks!

[Setec Astronomy]

Yes, people are doing that...I think that's the major reason AG is carrying the BP's, even though they officially don't endorse using the 5" backing plate on the 6" machine.

[zmcgovern45]

Yes - the Rupes 5" BP is perfectly fine on the LHR21ES machine.

[Calendyr]

Thanks guys!

[Evan.J]

I just did a car last week with the 15 BP on the 21 and that combo is great

[swanicyouth]

Is the Rupes much less fatiguing than a GG6?

[Evan.J]

Very little pressure and effort is needed in this machine.

[kevincwelch]

I contacted Rupes specifically about this question. Here is their reply:

Hi Kevin,
about the back plate swapping, we allow (but not suggest) to use the 5” on the LHR21, you can have some more vibrations but we allow people doing this and the machine it’s still warranty covered. Instead, using the 6” on the LHR15 has not been technically tested so we cannot guarantee the proper functioning. Each machine is designed to work with its own back plate, so any changes could affect the performance and balance of the machine (dimensions and weights of back plates are different).

I hope I was clear in my explanation despite of my non perfect English!

[kevincwelch]

Is the Rupes much less fatiguing than a GG6?

I started off with the GG6 and bought the Rupes 15 also. There is a world of difference. So much less vibration when using the Rupes. It's also quieter.

[KillaCam]

Is the Rupes much less fatiguing than a GG6?

It's like night and day compared to my pc. Never used to gg6 though. I actually enjoying polishing now! You really don't have to put but a few pounds of pressure on the machine.