Thanks for reviewing these cheaper versions of the high end machines. For us, who just do detailing as a hobby for our own cars, these machines often make more sense financially.
@@DavidC1 you should have got the 200 dollar one it’s the same exact thing same company makes them both all parts fit each other there isn’t any difference
I've owned the Flex 3401 for 5 year now. Love it. First polisher I grab but it's only disadvantage is not being able to use 3 inch 2 inch and 1 inch pads so I picked up the 3403 which is the rotary version of the 3401. It's extremely lightweight and cheaper than PE 14 and works great on the smaller panels I encounter. I started with a cheap rotary from Harbor Freight. It lasted just past the warranty. I learned about the Flex forced rotation, bought one and since I like keeping my vehicles pristine and also other things around the house polished glad I bought one. That thing will be running long after I'm dead and gone.
Im gonna switch my main rotary over to the pe14-2.. its just such a nice tool. Ive reviewed most of these tools if you want to have a look roger . on the main FDC homepage theres a playlist called machine polisher reviews. reviewed the 3401 and most of the flex stuff. Im a fan of the flex tools. just solid and well made... that 14-2 is one hell of a rotary.
It is and if I polished more than I do I would buy one too. I found the 3403 for under $200 a few years back and I also have a Makita I found used cheap that I use as more of a grinder/sander but a bit heavy for side panels and smaller pads. Hard to beat German engineering. Have you tried the Autotriz Nano Polisher yet? It's an interesting set up.
It's great that there are these cheaper versions of the pro machines. They're perfect for those of us that just do the occasional polish on our own cars. I think it was in your Rupes LHR15 mk2 review where you said the extra money isn't that much and by getting the Flex or Rupes you've got a quality tool which should last for many years. I went with a Rupes over the copy version after that video and am so glad I did. Such a joy to use and you feel that quality every time you pick it up.
Chris_Audittr2108 I am dithering over a new polisher. I use a polisher for my boat which is a lot of surface to cover but I am nervous over a 21 mm throw machine and the ability to control it accurately. I have used a Meguiars 220 (8mm) for years. It does the job but is slow. 15 mm is nearly twice the throw so maybe enough for me. I am content to pay the premium price for a Rupes so would be interested what you use yours for.
This channel is amazing for the amateur detailers and professionals I had been using the rotary for a few years and after looking through these videos I have learnt so much , decided to get a dual action forced which I felt was the best option for me bought the in2Detailing version which is a well made, one thing that I have found critical is the trigger when polishing down the side of vehicles if you let it off slightly it stops leaving you that you have to keep it tight or press in the button to keep it going without the trigger.
Is it possible to dissamble the head and change the lubrication of the bearing with high quality lithium grease to reduce the noise and heat? A video showing how this could be done would be a pleasure. Also does the backing plate interchangeable with the original Flex 3401?
I know this is an old video now but I found it very helpful, I own the flex PXE80 but need something bigger for the flat surface. I'm only looking after a couple of vehicles for a hobby and like I said this video has been super helpful in choosing a DA upgrade from my Das6 that always stalls. keep up the good work John..
Excellent Review Jon, I do agree with what you’re saying about the cheaper vs the more expensive machines, with the flex you can actually feel and even hear where the additional money is going (into the internals) it’s a machine for life, where as a cheaper ones, maybe not so much? but if the warranty is good on them, then hell yeah go for it. In my opinion, forced action is the way to go compared to a random orbital, once you have a few hours in and practice on some more complex things, it’s a nice, smooth machine that you can use one handed. The only problem I have with the 3401 - pad and backing plate choice. I’m planning on pairing my 3401 with my next investment (hopefully), the PE-14, LIGHTWEIGHT being the biggest pro for me, 1" - 6" pads to choose from and play with, I keep watching your review on the PE14, teasing myself more and more, haha
Jon, do you know if the backing plates are cross compatible or if I would be able to use the smaller backing plate from the In2detailing version on the 3401?
Great great polisher. Come away from rotary ( too much risk heat damage ) I’ve a question Which pad. The red foam pad heavy cut was destroyed rapidly on the forced DA from In2 Changed to a wool mop Farecla. This is dusting. Crazy. I do have DA Farecla compound but using G360 heavy cut which feels all wrong. Wondering what pad should use that heavy cuts but that doesn’t use itself up in a single car. Like a pad to get around min 4/5-10 cars. Not the one !!!! Cheers
I want to buy the shinemax M8S v2 but maxshine says they don't recommend fitting a 3inch backing plate. Also Rupes says it may damage the machine etc. Is it ok to swap the 5inch backing plate to 3inch backing plate without any damage to the machine? Why do some companies include different backing plates for DA machines when it can harm it?
Good review mate..It must be difficult reviewing products when you know the people personally. I run a Flexy VRG and 14-2 Rotary plus Zentool 21mm and Mini 12mm Zentool. The VRG is the heaviest, loudest, and most vibrating of all. My neighbours will attest to the noise. The VRG really should have been named the T-Rex cause it's an angry/powerful machine. I can really feel the mechanicals at work through the handle and AV Gloves are a necessity when using constantly. The FR gearing makes these polishers unique. The way they sound and feel. Compared to the others they sound like they have slipped a bearing and are about to fall apart. The VRG is a polisher I'm happy to let do the work with very little imput from me but I am always ready to wrestle that thing to the ground once it gets a little loose. There is definitely a big learning curve similar to rotary when you transition from smooth running DA"s to the VRG. Basically it's like being attached to a vibration belt. Or instead of being inside plane on start up your standing next to engines. IMO Flex really should have developed a 3" bp for this model or at least a mod that's easy to fit. As with rotary the VRG really needs to be matched with pads and paint or that thing jumps all over the place. But also as with rotary once matched they are smooth. Although I will say even when perfectly matched the VRG still sounds like it growling and complaining the whole way through cause of FR noise. It's a polisher I prefer to use where I can keep horizontal cause when it's vertical I can really notice weight compared to others. Can't beat FR with curved panels where DA's bog down and are also good for 1 step when I need extra cutting power and quick results.
interesting stuff.. I think peeps that machine a lot are really tuned in to things like vibration levels and noise because your getting exposed to it day after day etc.. becomes very important. rotaries are always going to be the king of smooth though
Hi guys. I need some advice and I think you've got it ;-) I need an oscillating polisher for claying, waxing/sealing and well... polishing, I suppose. I've already got a rotary, love it and know how to work it when cutting and for fine polishing. Only problem is, I can't do a "heavy" one-step polishing, as this will leave holograms. So, would you choose the forced rotation or free spinning system in my case?
Hi mate, if you intend to clay, wax/seal with polisher then IMO go for gentle free spinning DA. The forced rotation generally have 8mm throw so the larger 21mm DA's are best for spreading polishes/waxes. Both 21mm and 15mm DA's can do OSP but the Forced Rotation really shines especially with harder paints and curves. I only have 5" BP for my flex VRG so when it comes to smaller panels I just use 12mm DA with 3" BP and either Micro Fibre or Foamed wool pads for extra cut. Or if I'm attempting OSP on Rotary I may do the last pass at slower speed 1-2 to see if it gets rid of holograms. If not I stick to DA's or FR.
Tomato Industries Detailing Thanks mate... I've used the green HexLogic (heavy polishing) pad to create holograms with my rotary. Maybe I was too quick to finish the job ;-) - the white (medium-light) one seems to not leave anything. But it doesn't have the same cut either. I guess a DA would work fine with the green pad. Just remembering, I've even used a wool pad on a DA leaving no holograms once :-o Thanks again... I shall go for the free spinning one. :-)
Thumbs up from me for the intel 👍🏼 however, I’ll stick to the trusted Rupes and Flex machines. But hell, if you’re a weekend polisher, these cheaper offerings make a lot of sense as you say John. 👌🏼
Great review. I am an amateur. I looked at a quote for detailing and paint correction for my car and it was £600, so i spend about £400 buying myself some basic kit and I will practise and learn how to do it myself.
Hi.. I hope you still respond to an older video lol. Is the Chinese brand you referred to in the beginning, is it SPTA 6inch GA Orbital Polisher? Saw this somewhere and they called it GA. A combination of orbital and dual action (DA). Thank you in advance.
Hi Mate, thanks for reviewing. I just have a quick question. I am looking to buy this forced rotation polisher my question is can i use my existing Hex logic DA polishing pads without centre hole on this forced polisher. Please help me with this so i can make informed decision. thanks
That tool has its on-off switch on the top, which is not very ergonomic. To switch it off you'd have to let the far end of the machine go while it's still running, which is obviously not a good idea for multiple reasons. Also 600 Watts might not be enough power for heavy corrections, so when using it you might be limited mostly to just polishing and waxing.
See picking your first polisher video ... theres too many factors to type out.. but I tend to favour forced rotation. some people Ive recomend force rotation too though have not liked them.
Jon, I noticed on top where the spindle lock is, hot air is coming right onto your hand(especially when you use it right handedly) when you grip the bale handle. Did you notice that issue as well? I'm actually having to use my left hand to grip the bale handle when polishing to avoid the hot air release.
didnt notice the hot air flow, but the metal shroud on these can get hot for sure.. same with the 3401. If you use air tool oil to lubricate the felt ring under the plate it lowers the friction a bit.
it will still get warm but it should help. Its when you really work them set after set and work them hard you can really warm them up. but Ive never found it a major problem. they are kind of know for doing it.
@@ForensicDetailing they are exactly the same same parts and all I’m a professional detailer over 30 years now have both machines and cracked them open exactly the exact same thing only difference is flex is on one
A little off topic but do you prefer the 15 mm or 21mm throw polisher. I understand that they both have their uniqueness in certain situations but do you find yourself grabbing one over the other on a daily basis? Or prefer using one over another?
Hi Jon, great video as usual. I am looking to buy this to do some light correction and polish on a lotus elan m100, (fiberglass body) any recomendations on compounds/pads.
Ive never polished a lotus Mark. I dont even know if the m100 has clearcoat or if its single stage? I think you gonna need to do some test spots. Fg4000 could be a good option on this car. or S20 black. start with a soft polishing pad as well... If its single stage then that its gonna be a bit of a pig to polish it. need to be extra mindfull of keeping the pad clean and switching pads.. dont let the pad stick to the paintwork, perhaps shorter sets.
no I dont think in2detailing were able to offer it in the end. they now offer the vertool instead which is kind of the same deal. but I dont know if you can get a 4 inch for the vertool either?
untested.. but flex dont make a 4 inch plate hakim.. you need an 2 part Lake country adapater and 4 inche LC plate.. but these are not made anymore.. available in stock but dont know if they are compatible with the chinese machines.
pound for pound yes. the forced rotation will give you more consistency. less "loss" of movement travelled by the abrasives through stall. and a better ability to work the footprint covered by the pad. downside is its gonna fight you a bit more :(
Forensic Detailing Channel which pads you believe are better with it, thinner ones? Can you tell me one like rupes, lake country, buff and shine, chemicals?
@@genysmenrunner1677 have a look at an early video called polishing a car with the flex 3401. (or something like that) I use the LC adapter plates and the LC hybrid power pads 5 inch pads. both now unavailable!!! I dont like using the machine with anything larger than these 5 inch pads because I loose control.
DA's have a backing plate mounted in a free spinning bearing. the mount point is not in the centre of axel. so when the axel turns this plate goes around an orbit. 1 orbit per axel turn. as that plate goes round in an orbit you can also just spin in (whack it with your hand and it spins) or the force of the orbit naturally generates spin. Its the spinning of the plate on the free spinning bearing as it orbits that makes the DA what it is. But if you press the machine down hard on the panel you can stop that free spinning movement, and you just left with the movent of the main axel generating a small arbit circle. The force rotation machine simply has a track on the plate and the housing, so as the axel rotations the plate is FORCED to spin as well. so you cant stop the spin or the orbit. have a watch of the picking your first machine polisher video, it explains this and watch the flex 3401 review as well which talks about it.
das 6 pro is 8 mill free spinning DA. This is Force Rotation. Have a watch of picking the right machine polisher video hakim it goes thorugh all the differences mate.
if I could only have one pe14-2 150. out of all the ones I have I tend to go for the 3401 with the 5 inch hybrid pads. that combo just works for me.. dont get pulled by the machine dont get plate stall. just love using it..
I bought this particular polisher in 3 months it had a problem I sent many emails the problem was never solved was on warranty. Do not buy it in 2detail polisher .. find the original flex original...
Everytime you talk about a dirty car, i just laugh out loud. The amount of disgust and filfth in your voice is just too funny jon. Do you think this in2detailing forced rotation is the same product offered by Vertool?
Was probably a little uncomfortable review or you, but glad you made sure it was fair. There is always something that sticks in your throat when decent items, where people have invested their time and money into R&D and asians blatantlty make a snide of it investing nothing. Is this ethical? Not a penny goes to any of the Flex company for their hard work. Flex will also be continuing with their R&D for new tools which costs money and employing people. Only an individual can answer that, feels like stealing to me. From your review and only as a personal choice I would wait, save up and get the real deal and rest assured it will be backed by a factory warranty, not a promise.
95% of all the DA polishers on the market are chinese made, no matter what the name says on the side. The chinese manufacturers will make subtle changes and stick a different name on the machine for every business.
yep :) not true of flex or rupes though. some flex powertools are made in china but their machine polishers (not sure on the very latest gen ones) are made in germany... I think the vast majority of the rest of them are made in china even from brands that are american or european. the killer is some of these offerings from high quality "western" brands are actually coming out of the same factory as well :(
the quality will be cheap! knock offs are shit, surely you cannot compare the 2 lol? this shit should be illegal. its down right copyright lol, cheap Chinese copied shit
The quality is not "shit", in fact its pretty good... but there are no doubt cheaper interals and less features. thats the trade off for half the price. If your after a fixed rotation DA offering to polish your car and you dont have 320 quid to spend on the flex. Then this tool will serve you very well. Would serve you well enough as a pro too. Its only illegal if there are technical patent infringements on specific features in the same way someone designed a rotary sander at one point and now you have prolly 100's of different manufacturers offering them.. someone designed a dual action sander now and tons of manufacturers offer them. So someone brings out a fixed rotation tool and if it legal to do so and theres a market for it other people offer it. I think its probably also hard to put in place the technical patents on tooling.. I dont know the in's and outs of that, if it wasnt an option for flex or if they chose not to. In the same way rupes have no technical patent on the "long throw" so flex have been able to enter that market. The gloves are well and truly off.. as a consumer you have the right to back whatever corner you wish.
Forensic Detailing Channel ive got a flex 3401. would never buy crappy copied shit full stop. just because why copy a design!! because whom ever build this knock off anit got no back round/knowledge else why copy another company design. and so, to me its SHIT simple. sorry lol. but its how i feel. to much cheap chinese shit at our shores !!!
the company that make it probably have a fair amount of knowledge to be able to build this and a whole range of other tools. I hear what you are saying though, and its your right to go down whatever path you want.. I said in the video I would have the flex. but I also said If I didnt have the money for the flex this tool will deliver me the same results.. thats the trade off really. So for anyone looking for this format of tool that has a budget of 160pounds.. then for them having this tool available is obviously a good thing...
Thanks for reviewing these cheaper versions of the high end machines. For us, who just do detailing as a hobby for our own cars, these machines often make more sense financially.
i just blew all my christmas money on the real deal
@@DavidC1 you should have got the 200 dollar one it’s the same exact thing same company makes them both all parts fit each other there isn’t any difference
I've owned the Flex 3401 for 5 year now. Love it. First polisher I grab but it's only disadvantage is not being able to use 3 inch 2 inch and 1 inch pads so I picked up the 3403 which is the rotary version of the 3401. It's extremely lightweight and cheaper than PE 14 and works great on the smaller panels I encounter. I started with a cheap rotary from Harbor Freight. It lasted just past the warranty. I learned about the Flex forced rotation, bought one and since I like keeping my vehicles pristine and also other things around the house polished glad I bought one. That thing will be running long after I'm dead and gone.
Im gonna switch my main rotary over to the pe14-2.. its just such a nice tool. Ive reviewed most of these tools if you want to have a look roger . on the main FDC homepage theres a playlist called machine polisher reviews.
reviewed the 3401 and most of the flex stuff.
Im a fan of the flex tools. just solid and well made... that 14-2 is one hell of a rotary.
It is and if I polished more than I do I would buy one too. I found the 3403 for under $200 a few years back and I also have a Makita I found used cheap that I use as more of a grinder/sander but a bit heavy for side panels and smaller pads. Hard to beat German engineering. Have you tried the Autotriz Nano Polisher yet? It's an interesting set up.
just spent all the christmas money on a forced rotation tool, i cant wait to try it out!
It's great that there are these cheaper versions of the pro machines. They're perfect for those of us that just do the occasional polish on our own cars. I think it was in your Rupes LHR15 mk2 review where you said the extra money isn't that much and by getting the Flex or Rupes you've got a quality tool which should last for many years. I went with a Rupes over the copy version after that video and am so glad I did. Such a joy to use and you feel that quality every time you pick it up.
Chris_Audittr2108 I am dithering over a new polisher. I use a polisher for my boat which is a lot of surface to cover but I am nervous over a 21 mm throw machine and the ability to control it accurately. I have used a Meguiars 220 (8mm) for years. It does the job but is slow. 15 mm is nearly twice the throw so maybe enough for me. I am content to pay the premium price for a Rupes so would be interested what you use yours for.
This channel is amazing for the amateur detailers and professionals I had been using the rotary for a few years and after looking through these videos I have learnt so much , decided to get a dual action forced which I felt was the best option for me bought the in2Detailing version which is a well made, one thing that I have found critical is the trigger when polishing down the side of vehicles if you let it off slightly it stops leaving you that you have to keep it tight or press in the button to keep it going without the trigger.
Just bought one of these as first polisher. Looking forward to giving it a go.
Is it possible to dissamble the head and change the lubrication of the bearing with high quality lithium grease to reduce the noise and heat? A video showing how this could be done would be a pleasure. Also does the backing plate interchangeable with the original Flex 3401?
I know this is an old video now but I found it very helpful, I own the flex PXE80 but need something bigger for the flat surface. I'm only looking after a couple of vehicles for a hobby and like I said this video has been super helpful in choosing a DA upgrade from my Das6 that always stalls. keep up the good work John..
Iv just ordered the das6 pro and the s20 black from in2detailing came to £180 but I'm following your polishing guide
that combo is a solid way to slip into the world of machine polishing hakman..
Excellent Review Jon, I do agree with
what you’re saying about the cheaper vs the more expensive machines, with the
flex you can actually feel and even hear where the additional money is going
(into the internals) it’s a machine for life, where as a cheaper ones, maybe
not so much? but if the warranty is good on them, then hell yeah go for it. In
my opinion, forced action is the way to go compared to a random orbital, once
you have a few hours in and practice on some more complex things, it’s
a nice, smooth machine that you can use one handed. The only problem
I have with the 3401 - pad and backing plate choice. I’m planning on pairing my
3401 with my next investment (hopefully), the PE-14, LIGHTWEIGHT being the
biggest pro for me, 1" - 6" pads to choose from and play with, I keep
watching your review on the PE14, teasing myself more and more, haha
Jon, do you know if the backing plates are cross compatible or if I would be able to use the smaller backing plate from the In2detailing version on the 3401?
Another good review, cleanyourcar also do a similar product by Vertool
Great great polisher. Come away from rotary ( too much risk heat damage )
I’ve a question
Which pad. The red foam pad heavy cut was destroyed rapidly on the forced DA from In2
Changed to a wool mop Farecla. This is dusting. Crazy. I do have DA Farecla compound but using G360 heavy cut which feels all wrong.
Wondering what pad should use that heavy cuts but that doesn’t use itself up in a single car. Like a pad to get around min 4/5-10 cars. Not the one !!!! Cheers
Scholl concepts spider range or flexes own range.
@@ForensicDetailing thanks Jon.
I want to buy the shinemax M8S v2 but maxshine says they don't recommend fitting a 3inch backing plate. Also Rupes says it may damage the machine etc.
Is it ok to swap the 5inch backing plate to 3inch backing plate without any damage to the machine?
Why do some companies include different backing plates for DA machines when it can harm it?
Good review mate..It must be difficult reviewing products when you know the people personally. I run a Flexy VRG and 14-2 Rotary plus Zentool 21mm and Mini 12mm Zentool. The VRG is the heaviest, loudest, and most vibrating of all. My neighbours will attest to the noise. The VRG really should have been named the T-Rex cause it's an angry/powerful machine. I can really feel the mechanicals at work through the handle and AV Gloves are a necessity when using constantly. The FR gearing makes these polishers unique. The way they sound and feel. Compared to the others they sound like they have slipped a bearing and are about to fall apart. The VRG is a polisher I'm happy to let do the work with very little imput from me but I am always ready to wrestle that thing to the ground once it gets a little loose. There is definitely a big learning curve similar to rotary when you transition from smooth running DA"s to the VRG. Basically it's like being attached to a vibration belt. Or instead of being inside plane on start up your standing next to engines. IMO Flex really should have developed a 3" bp for this model or at least a mod that's easy to fit. As with rotary the VRG really needs to be matched with pads and paint or that thing jumps all over the place. But also as with rotary once matched they are smooth. Although I will say even when perfectly matched the VRG still sounds like it growling and complaining the whole way through cause of FR noise. It's a polisher I prefer to use where I can keep horizontal cause when it's vertical I can really notice weight compared to others. Can't beat FR with curved panels where DA's bog down and are also good for 1 step when I need extra cutting power and quick results.
interesting stuff.. I think peeps that machine a lot are really tuned in to things like vibration levels and noise because your getting exposed to it day after day etc.. becomes very important. rotaries are always going to be the king of smooth though
Hi guys. I need some advice and I think you've got it ;-)
I need an oscillating polisher for claying, waxing/sealing and well... polishing, I suppose.
I've already got a rotary, love it and know how to work it when cutting and for fine polishing. Only problem is, I can't do a "heavy" one-step polishing, as this will leave holograms.
So, would you choose the forced rotation or free spinning system in my case?
Hi mate, if you intend to clay, wax/seal with polisher then IMO go for gentle free spinning DA. The forced rotation generally have 8mm throw so the larger 21mm DA's are best for spreading polishes/waxes. Both 21mm and 15mm DA's can do OSP but the Forced Rotation really shines especially with harder paints and curves. I only have 5" BP for my flex VRG so when it comes to smaller panels I just use 12mm DA with 3" BP and either Micro Fibre or Foamed wool pads for extra cut. Or if I'm attempting OSP on Rotary I may do the last pass at slower speed 1-2 to see if it gets rid of holograms. If not I stick to DA's or FR.
Tomato Industries Detailing Thanks mate... I've used the green HexLogic (heavy polishing) pad to create holograms with my rotary. Maybe I was too quick to finish the job ;-) - the white (medium-light) one seems to not leave anything. But it doesn't have the same cut either. I guess a DA would work fine with the green pad.
Just remembering, I've even used a wool pad on a DA leaving no holograms once :-o
Thanks again... I shall go for the free spinning one. :-)
Thumbs up from me for the intel 👍🏼 however, I’ll stick to the trusted Rupes and Flex machines. But hell, if you’re a weekend polisher, these cheaper offerings make a lot of sense as you say John. 👌🏼
Great review. I am an amateur. I looked at a quote for detailing and paint correction for my car and it was £600, so i spend about £400 buying myself some basic kit and I will practise and learn how to do it myself.
Hi.. I hope you still respond to an older video lol. Is the Chinese brand you referred to in the beginning, is it SPTA 6inch GA Orbital Polisher? Saw this somewhere and they called it GA. A combination of orbital and dual action (DA). Thank you in advance.
Great information! Really like your channel.
Would you please look at deep scratch repair methods?
have a look at the wet sanding video, and some of the other machine polishing videos clayton. its kind of covered there.
Would changing the grease will help with noise and vibration?
What size backing plate would you use for a 5.5 pad on the flex?
best place to get a genuine flex polisher which u recomend xc 3401 or pe 14-2150 great vids
Hi Mate, thanks for reviewing. I just have a quick question. I am looking to buy this forced rotation polisher my question is can i use my existing Hex logic DA polishing pads without centre hole on this forced polisher. Please help me with this so i can make informed decision. thanks
Yes you can
Have you heard anything about the 4 "backing plate from Imran, John, can not see anyone on his site!
Outstanding review. Thank you.
Thank for the good review.. May I ask you something? Have you ever tried or heard of SPTA brand?what is your opinion about this brand? Thank you
see "cheap chinese pads" video (search you tube for those words)
Just bought this:
SLIM'S DETAILING DUAL ACTION DAS6 MACHINE POLISHER (600W) - £78.
Would be interested in your thoughts
That tool has its on-off switch on the top, which is not very ergonomic. To switch it off you'd have to let the far end of the machine go while it's still running, which is obviously not a good idea for multiple reasons. Also 600 Watts might not be enough power for heavy corrections, so when using it you might be limited mostly to just polishing and waxing.
Thanks for the content, DAS 6 Pro or Forced Rotation DA Polisher?
See picking your first polisher video ... theres too many factors to type out.. but I tend to favour forced rotation. some people Ive recomend force rotation too though have not liked them.
Jon, I noticed on top where the spindle lock is, hot air is coming right onto your hand(especially when you use it right handedly) when you grip the bale handle. Did you notice that issue as well? I'm actually having to use my left hand to grip the bale handle when polishing to avoid the hot air release.
didnt notice the hot air flow, but the metal shroud on these can get hot for sure.. same with the 3401. If you use air tool oil to lubricate the felt ring under the plate it lowers the friction a bit.
Forensic Detailing Channel do you notice a significant decrease in heat when you lubricate the felt ring?
it will still get warm but it should help. Its when you really work them set after set and work them hard you can really warm them up. but Ive never found it a major problem. they are kind of know for doing it.
The same company that Makes the 3401 makes the other one it’s exactly the same parts and everything when you crack them open all parts fit each other
Wrong.
@@ForensicDetailing they are exactly the same same parts and all I’m a professional detailer over 30 years now have both machines and cracked them open exactly the exact same thing only difference is flex is on one
Superb channel. Thanks for the no nonsense! :-)
A little off topic but do you prefer the 15 mm or 21mm throw polisher. I understand that they both have their uniqueness in certain situations but do you find yourself grabbing one over the other on a daily basis? Or prefer using one over another?
15 mill mate. )I dont own a long throw though)
i wish these were available in the USA :(
Ariel Bustamante - I believe something similar is available on eBay.
Great review as always. Thank u
Hi Jon, great video as usual. I am looking to buy this to do some light correction and polish on a lotus elan m100, (fiberglass body) any recomendations on compounds/pads.
Ive never polished a lotus Mark. I dont even know if the m100 has clearcoat or if its single stage? I think you gonna need to do some test spots. Fg4000 could be a good option on this car. or S20 black. start with a soft polishing pad as well... If its single stage then that its gonna be a bit of a pig to polish it. need to be extra mindfull of keeping the pad clean and switching pads.. dont let the pad stick to the paintwork, perhaps shorter sets.
Thanks Jon, i will give it a careful go with s20
3401 sounds louder on the vid to me
Many thanks for good review. I have had chinese rupes copy before (das21e), and it was good enough for its price.
Hello hi there friend have you ever tried the flex 4" backing plate on this unit
no I dont think in2detailing were able to offer it in the end. they now offer the vertool instead which is kind of the same deal. but I dont know if you can get a 4 inch for the vertool either?
For a second there I thought you said 8 meter throw 😆 lol
Thanks good to know!
So the flex 4 inch plate fits the In2detailing one
untested.. but flex dont make a 4 inch plate hakim.. you need an 2 part Lake country adapater and 4 inche LC plate.. but these are not made anymore.. available in stock but dont know if they are compatible with the chinese machines.
Yes it does
Can I correct faster with a forced rotation comparing to a 15 or 21mm da?
pound for pound yes. the forced rotation will give you more consistency. less "loss" of movement travelled by the abrasives through stall. and a better ability to work the footprint covered by the pad. downside is its gonna fight you a bit more :(
Forensic Detailing Channel which pads you believe are better with it, thinner ones?
Can you tell me one like rupes, lake country, buff and shine, chemicals?
@@genysmenrunner1677 have a look at an early video called polishing a car with the flex 3401. (or something like that) I use the LC adapter plates and the LC hybrid power pads 5 inch pads. both now unavailable!!! I dont like using the machine with anything larger than these 5 inch pads because I loose control.
I don’t understand the difference between this machine and long throw. Please help 🙏🏼
DA's have a backing plate mounted in a free spinning bearing. the mount point is not in the centre of axel. so when the axel turns this plate goes around an orbit. 1 orbit per axel turn. as that plate goes round in an orbit you can also just spin in (whack it with your hand and it spins) or the force of the orbit naturally generates spin. Its the spinning of the plate on the free spinning bearing as it orbits that makes the DA what it is. But if you press the machine down hard on the panel you can stop that free spinning movement, and you just left with the movent of the main axel generating a small arbit circle. The force rotation machine simply has a track on the plate and the housing, so as the axel rotations the plate is FORCED to spin as well. so you cant stop the spin or the orbit. have a watch of the picking your first machine polisher video, it explains this and watch the flex 3401 review as well which talks about it.
Forensic Detailing Channel thanks for the swift and detailed reply. Love your videos, I always look forward to the next!
whats the differance between das 6pro and this
das 6 pro is 8 mill free spinning DA. This is Force Rotation. Have a watch of picking the right machine polisher video hakim it goes thorugh all the differences mate.
What´s that song in the intro? :)
that is the mega talented Simon Alexander.
check out his music and original video for the song here..
ua-cam.com/video/ddWterWj1rU/v-deo.html
Forensic Detailing Channel thanks 😉
can we buy in america??
it is any good or should I buy something else?
which is your personal favorite polisher? if you can only have one....
if I could only have one pe14-2 150. out of all the ones I have I tend to go for the 3401 with the 5 inch hybrid pads. that combo just works for me.. dont get pulled by the machine dont get plate stall. just love using it..
I bought this particular polisher in 3 months it had a problem I sent many emails the problem was never solved was on warranty.
Do not buy it in 2detail polisher
.. find the original flex original...
Detail the problem pls it's usefull
thank you.:)
Everytime you talk about a dirty car, i just laugh out loud. The amount of disgust and filfth in your voice is just too funny jon.
Do you think this in2detailing forced rotation is the same product offered by Vertool?
whats it like compaired to Vertool Forced Drive Machine Polisher
feels identical.. but spec wise the vertool has a more powerfull motor. In2detailing stopped selling their version of it and now sell the vertool.
Was probably a little uncomfortable review or you, but glad you made sure it was fair.
There is always something that sticks in your throat when decent items, where people have invested their time and money into R&D and asians blatantlty make a snide of it investing nothing. Is this ethical? Not a penny goes to any of the Flex company for their hard work. Flex will also be continuing with their R&D for new tools which costs money and employing people.
Only an individual can answer that, feels like stealing to me.
From your review and only as a personal choice I would wait, save up and get the real deal and rest assured it will be backed by a factory warranty, not a promise.
They are the exact same machine exactly the same thing
8 meter throw? Thats alot!
lol did I say 8 meters.. that would make it fun :)
Well, it lets you cover the whole car in just one pass :)
Btw, i use the Flex 4 3/8" backing plate.
N
95% of all the DA polishers on the market are chinese made, no matter what the name says on the side. The chinese manufacturers will make subtle changes and stick a different name on the machine for every business.
yep :) not true of flex or rupes though. some flex powertools are made in china but their machine polishers (not sure on the very latest gen ones) are made in germany... I think the vast majority of the rest of them are made in china even from brands that are american or european. the killer is some of these offerings from high quality "western" brands are actually coming out of the same factory as well :(
Exactly!
the quality will be cheap! knock offs are shit, surely you cannot compare the 2 lol? this shit should be illegal. its down right copyright lol, cheap Chinese copied shit
The quality is not "shit", in fact its pretty good... but there are no doubt cheaper interals and less features. thats the trade off for half the price. If your after a fixed rotation DA offering to polish your car and you dont have 320 quid to spend on the flex. Then this tool will serve you very well. Would serve you well enough as a pro too.
Its only illegal if there are technical patent infringements on specific features in the same way someone designed a rotary sander at one point and now you have prolly 100's of different manufacturers offering them.. someone designed a dual action sander now and tons of manufacturers offer them.
So someone brings out a fixed rotation tool and if it legal to do so and theres a market for it other people offer it. I think its probably also hard to put in place the technical patents on tooling.. I dont know the in's and outs of that, if it wasnt an option for flex or if they chose not to. In the same way rupes have no technical patent on the "long throw" so flex have been able to enter that market.
The gloves are well and truly off.. as a consumer you have the right to back whatever corner you wish.
Forensic Detailing Channel ive got a flex 3401. would never buy crappy copied shit full stop. just because why copy a design!! because whom ever build this knock off anit got no back round/knowledge else why copy another company design. and so, to me its SHIT simple. sorry lol. but its how i feel. to much cheap chinese shit at our shores !!!
You would never buy it, but others do. And they're happy with it, because they get practically the same machine you have, just for half the price.
the company that make it probably have a fair amount of knowledge to be able to build this and a whole range of other tools. I hear what you are saying though, and its your right to go down whatever path you want.. I said in the video I would have the flex. but I also said If I didnt have the money for the flex this tool will deliver me the same results.. thats the trade off really. So for anyone looking for this format of tool that has a budget of 160pounds.. then for them having this tool available is obviously a good thing...
Forensic Detailing Channel yeah on a budget its good but pisses me off all this copying, make something new.