Newbie--Not quite sold on Flex

macaddicted · 02-16-08, 08:11

Greetings

I have just purchased an 09 Nissan Murano with a Tinted Bronze paint (manufacturer's name for it). Since the car will be in the sun most, if not all, the time I want to make sure that the paint and interior (leather) are properly cared for.

I'll leave any questions about the interior for later. Right now I'm looking at polishers. I've already ruled out the PC; I'm trying to decide between the UDM and the Flex. I recognize the better features of the Flex, but I also recognize that I can get a pretty good kit for the UDM for the price of just the Flex. thus my dilemma

I am starting with new paint (which will probably need some work) but I'm not looking to become a professional. In fact I am absolutely new to detailing. I suppose what I am looking for is a polisher for regular maintenance.

So with that in mind if you could please let me know which polisher you thing would be better for me (I know a lot of people think the Flex is better for anything) and more importantly why.

Thanks

howareb · 02-16-08, 08:18

The Flex is the better at performance, but if you are new to detailing I would start with the UDM. The learning curve on the UDM is a lot easier, plus for the same money as a Flex you are right, you start out with pads. So as far as value, the better value for a new person like yourself is the UDM. If you have the money to go all out however then the Flex is your best bet.

Also be aware that the UDM has had some problems with certain units failing. I would not let that stop you though, because the customer service has been exceptional at taking care of it.

Radicalrev · 02-16-08, 08:26

but does the Flex has more risk or same as UDM with the say of "idiot" proof??

wannafbody · 02-16-08, 08:31

The Flex is more expensive but a better machine. That being said I'd reccomend either the PC, UDM or Ridgid 2611 from Home depot based on cost. A new 09 model won't need excessive corrective ability.

detaildoc · 02-16-08, 08:32

Quote:

Originally Posted by Radicalrev

but does the Flex has more risk or same as UDM with the say of "idiot" proof??

Just a bit more (at full speed), but if to start while you learn you keep it at speed of 3.5- 4, this pretty much equals the UDM at a speed of six, hence making it just as safe as the UDM. Also, as with anything else while you are learning, don't go for a very aggressive polish/pad combo. Keep it to the LC white pad and no compounds and you will be safe. One safe way to go is by starting out with Sonus SFX 2 and 3 or Menzerna SIP and RD or Menzerna Final Polish and Micro Polish. Even at the highest speed, using the white pad with SFX 2 is pretty safe.

a.k.a. Patrick · 02-16-08, 09:54

Quote:

Originally Posted by wannafbody

..............A new 09 model won't need excessive corrective ability.

Thats what I was thinking.
If theres not a need for it, then its really not all that economical to spend more. You could get all decked out with pads, polish(es) and sealants for the price of the Flex alone.

SpoiledMan · 02-16-08, 10:06

What kind of correction is needed will be *heavily* dependent on how good(bad) the dealer prep was. Oh yeah, how hard the paint is will play a role as well.

macaddicted · 02-16-08, 10:21

I can't answer as to the current condition of the paint. I've only had it for a week and haven't had a chance to wash it yet. It looked good when I bought, but then it's supposed to...

jetset4me · 02-16-08, 10:41

In the long run the Flex is a better investment. The price is going up so make your decision soon.

detaildoc · 02-16-08, 11:15

Quote:

Originally Posted by jetset4me

In the long run the Flex is a better investment. The price is going up so make your decision soon.

I agree. According to Phil, the price might increase to $289.95 or even $299.

detaildoc · 02-16-08, 11:16

Quote:

Originally Posted by macaddicted

I can't answer as to the current condition of the paint. I've only had it for a week and haven't had a chance to wash it yet. It looked good when I bought, but then it's supposed to...

Do a 50/50 wipe down and you might be surprised.

kkjv1 · 02-16-08, 11:57

The overwhelming majority of people who bought the flex are extremely happy. The demand for the Flex is so high that it is hard to find a seller has them in stock and price will be going up. The reason for this is simple. The Flex is a better machine in ALL aspects compared to a PC/UDM. ANYONE can use the Flex, it is not reserved for 'professionals'. The tradeoff is the pricetag.

Your dilemma is fairly simple, and in fact i was in the same boat a few months ago. If money is extremely tight, get the UDM. If you can afford it, get the Flex. The UDM may be cheaper initially, but down the line, the Flex will save you time, energy, body aches, (which i think is more important than money).

Whatever you decide, have fun detailing!