Which Flex rotary, L3403 vs LK603VVB

I would like to buy one of these machines. I like the 3403 because it is smaller and lighter weight. But is there anything the LK603 can do that the 3403 can't. I am most interested in the technical aspects of the machines. Their prices are fairly close so not an issue.

 

I have been using the 3403 for around 2 years now and have yet to find anything that it can't do. I haven't used my 603 or my Makita since I got it.

 

That sounds like quite an endorsement.

 

You need to stick with 5.5-6" pads. The 3403 will heat up with 7+ inch pads.

 

There is a $90 difference between them if you buy from Amazon.

 

I would not buy from Amazon, their prices are not the best on these machines. There are various sales and discounts available that decrease the price gap. I just wanted to discuss the technical aspects of the machines and not get side-tracked discussing prices. There are so many retailers out there with different prices that discussing the cost becomes a distraction. The fact the 3403 is lighter makes up for the difference in price.

 

I'm sorry, didn't mean to side-track. I am actually interested in all the feedback as I might be buying a rotary polisher soon.

 

I also use my 3403 more than my makita, n right now im trying to get rid of the makita n bring in another toy.

 

yyaman, no problem. I just wanted to explain why price is not an issue. Because then, it could turn into a thread about who has the best price, and that could change every day. Also, some people can justify the difference in price in their own mind while some can't.

Talking about just the technical aspects puts the technical information out there so everyone can then make up their own mind as to whether any difference in price is worth it. The cost becomes a subjective thing...what value does each person put into a particular feature.

 

The 3403 is 2 lbs lighter than the Makita or 603. The ONLY downside is that, as stated, they do tend to run hot and can overheat. When they do though, I just run it on speed 6 with no load fore about a minute and that cures it.

 

yep thats what the flex rep guy told me

 

So if I was running a 7" wool pad and it starts to get hot...do I remove the pad and run it on 6 or just leave the pad on with no load?

 

If you plan on running larger than 6 in pads . I would use the 603 or Makita. But it is my go to rotary as I own 3403,603VV ,Metabo,and a Makita

 

i read a reply on another forum that said his flex stopped heating up after about 50 hours of usage. another guy said the same. something to look forward to.

 

I have a Makita, but would like to use 7" wool pad with the 3403 and not burn the motor up.

 

I use flex with 5in pads no problem and I wouldn't use anything larger than 6in. to cool the machine down, you should have no pad & backing plate at speed 6.

 

I usually just lift it off the paint ( I only run a 4.75" bp and 5" pads ) and let it run on 6 for a minute or so. Seems to work every time. Is there any reason to remove the bp and pad?

 

Sometimes the Makita can overheat and you want to kick it up to 6 and run air through the gearbox.

 

Mine hasn't. I have hundred of hours on mine and still heats up like a bastard on the right paint.

 

I bought the 3403 when it came out, but sold it since its to weak, but the weight and size of the machine is a big +. Now I have a Makita - wich is the machine I learnd how to polish - and I have never looked back.