Buffer choices

I like my flex, but I did have trouble with it after very little use. The brushes started arcing and it was jerking on and off, rather than running smoothly. I took it apart and ran a commutator stone on the comm.. It has been fine ever since. Of course, it was just out of warranty when this happened. I called Flex, and they wouldn't do anything, even though it was only about a month out of warranty.

I don't know if I'd buy another one. It is nice to use aside from the gear box getting so hot. That isn't a really big deal, but what happened to my motor and the company's lack of support is a concern.
 
The style I have (mines over 10yrs old), like the one I posted from E-bay, dosen't get hot. This link is the one I have and use except that big silly nut on the shaft. I will get a pic of both the Flex and the P/C. When we got the P/C the Flex wasn't available and the salseman said P/C is now Flex and when it came in dam if it isn't exactly the same in everyway so I never questioned it. but then again that was about 10yrs ago, P/C might have just got the rights to that one design I don't know.
 
I just have a Dewalt like this one. It actually wasn't what I thought I wanted, it was supposed to be a temporary deal just to keep working, but dang if this thing doesn't get with the program. It's a brute, not a single hiccup in the seven years I've been beating on it.
 
Here are the pics of both the Porter Cable and Flex I have the 302 Flex the RPM speed is slower on mine compaired to the one in the pic. I prefer the slower speed myself but both work extremely good as does the P/C which is exactly the same as my 302 except color.
 
The guys like using the foam pads as you see here but myself I've always liked the wool pads, I never had good luck with the foam I never felt the results were the same and didn't seem to cut as fast or last as long. Last night I figured I would give Shines recommendation a try and ordered everything he told me too and give foam pads another try along with some differant compound. If you know Shine it's best to do what he says and don't argue with him just do it :). Everything from Chemical Guys should be here by Wednesday, Thank you Shine.
 
flex is credited with inventing the angle grinder and and according to Wikipedia had an agreement with porter cable for a long time.my old flex bit it many years ago and was likely a early 70's model . dont remember weight wise but it was a great buffer. went through an air polisher then a pc , makita , b&d . when it failed i bought another flex. was more money but if it last like my old one i'll be happy . my next buy will be the mini flex for small pads and detail.
let me know how you make out with the chemical guys stuff .
 
shine;n78491 said:
by the way do some research on the gto . if bought right you might do ok .


We'll do and will keep both you posted as to what I find. With the history behind the car I have to approch it softly but I am working on it.
 
I am ready to pull the trigger on purchasing a buffer and have been interested in the Flex 3404 that Shine is fond. Since this is my first one I wanted to get all the necessary accessories at the same time and take advantage of the Chemical Guys 20% of on sales of over $200 but that Flex buffer is discontinued. Any recommendations of another unit that would be acceptable. I really don't need the best because it is a hobby for me but I do want good quality. Pads - I was going to get the 6" flex able backing plate and Lake Country 6 1/2" orange, white,and black and the v line compound samples.
Any suggestions on another buffer or is it worth paying full price somewhere else.
 
Thanks for the research on vendors Shine. That's the one I'm going to get- Flex L3403. Bummer it was discontinued on Chemical Guys with that 20% discount. It would have been great but I'll still need some stuff from them.

Thanks
FarmBoy

"I ain't smart enough to be scared"
 
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