3401 work with 5.5" pad

I am looking at maybe getting a 3401 but have lots of 5.5" pad most new or used only once with my old PC. I would love to upgrade to the Flex but want to know how 5.5"pads will fit, pics would be great to show how close to the edge the BP would get.

Thanks!

 

I don't actully have any 5.5" pads, but the backing plate is suppose to be 5" so I assume they should fit fine

 

I don't actully have any 5.5" pads, but the backing plate is suppose to be 5" so I assume they should fit fine

 

They will work. I use them on my flex!

 

I thought the 3401 comes with a 6" BP?? i don't think a 5.5" pad would work too well on that.

 

If you got the replacement BP which is 5.5in (iirc) it will work. I cant remember if its a 5in or 5.5in. I'm thinkin 5.5

 

My original backing plate measures exactly 5.5". I think it would be risky putting a 5.5 pad on the same sized backing plate.

 

I've used 5.5 on my Flex and they work great!! If you are thinking of picking up a DA, take a look at the Festool Rotex. Looks a bit clunky but, once you get it on the car, works great!!!! And, you can use their sanding discs - very similar to the Abralon, which also work great!!!!!

Andy

 

My RO 150 is great, only down side is even in late 2004 when I got mine from Tom@System One it was over 400.00 bucks(awww man) not sure what Festool retails them for now(hopefully lot's less).

 

I could not afford to get a Festool, $300 for the Flex is almost pushing it. I was thinking of getting the new PC 7424XP but then I got thinking maybe the Flex. Nice to hear I may be able to use 5.5" pads.

 

You can use the 5.5!! Funny you mention getting a Flex. I was just PMing Ken about them and he made a point that I observed when I originally purchased mine...they seem to have a mind of their own, tend to wander. I guess that's because the machine has a great deal of torque!!?? I'm going to put my Rotex to a car this week again. If you can hold on for a few days, and if I just decide I'm lovin the Rotex, I'll PM you about my 3401. The one I would get rid of would come out of my Sprinter. The entire setup in the van is only about five months old and the Flex probably has only three cars on it. So, I'll let you know!



Andy

 

Just let me know and I will think about it. Was not looking to buy now but if deal is good I may have to change the time line. How much space is there when you put a 5.5" pad on it from the BP and edge of pad?

 

My advice would be learn to use your PC to its potential. If you are are willing to plow $300 into a new DA, I suggest you spend $35 on a Gloss it White pad and Gloss it Extreme cut and see what you can do. I guarantee the Flex will not be able to produce a better finish and the PC is easier to use. If you have your mind set on a 3401, I'll sell you mine ( its got one panel worth of use ) for $10 less than Andy will sell his for ! LOL The PC is a highly underrated tool but have a look around and see what guys are doing with them. If you have to spend that $300, get the Flex lightweight rotary instead and then you'll have both.

 

911, I dont have my mind set on a 3401 but looking into them. I know the org PC does not have the power needed for hard clears to do them well, which is why I looked into the Flex then saw all the new DAs coming out to the market with some power behind them that look good as well. So right now to me it seems like the 3401 may get the job done faster but the PC is going to get the same results but 1/2 the cost.

Have you used the PC XP? How does it compare to the org when using polishes like Menz?

 

All I'm saying is that with the newer pads and polishes on the market, the performance gap between rotaries and PCs is diminishing fast. If you look at gmblacks last post about the red Vette with DA sanding damage, you'll see what is possible with a pc. The performance difference between the old pc and the new one is insignificant. The newer pads like the SURBUFFs may have a bit of a learning curve, but in the end I'd rather see you spend your money on a good rotary. Then, if you get a job where the pc doesn't cut it, you can use the rotary and finish up with the pc if you are worried about holograms etc. Like I said, get a GI compounding pad and some Extreme Cut or even Power Gloss and you'll be amazes at what you can do. :thumb:

 

What Ken is saying is that old farts like me are a dying breed!!!!:itsok:

 

By the time you get to my age, I'll have my seniors card at Dennys!

 

Looks like I will sticking with the PC and looking at new polish/pad combos and then deciding what to do. No, I do not have a rotary but I really am hesitant with getting one as I dont use it that often as I only have one car to polish, mine.

Thanks for all the help and guess i will keep you guys updated on what I do.

 

If you are only doing your car, stick with the PC and get some pads and polishes from Gloss it. Although there has been some negative feedback regarding the polishes for rotary use, they rock with pcs which, coincidentally, is what they were actually designed for use on. Get the white, yellow, green and blue pads and Extreme Cut, and Evo Polish and you are good to go. All the stuff in my store is guaranteed so if you don't like it after using it, send it back. No worries.

 

Got Wax I've removed one of your posts, please remember your not allowed to sell items or promote items you sell. Only those with the appropriate account can post such sales or promote such items.

Please go over the rules if needed and familiarize your self with the rules and please don't post such things.