Flex Problem

ptim · 09-01-08, 05:59

I used my Flex 3401 for the second time yesterday. I was using a green pad on speed 6, I noticed a burning smell, so I stopped looked at the polisher, it seemed fine and I didn't smell anything, so I turned it on and tried it again, I smelled smoke again, I stopped, looked, nothing. So, I tried it again for the third time, this time I heard a noise, then, before I could tun it off, I got hit by, what looked like plastic, about 6-7 inches long. After looking at it, the blacking plate appears to have a burr.

Anyone else have this problem, or is mine defected, it appears to be working fine.

Pictures are located here.

ptim/Flex Polisher - Photobucket - Video and Image Hosting

DownSouth · 09-01-08, 07:08

This has happened to a few machines. You will need a new backing plate and felt ring. When you get them, soak the ring in some motor oil, then reinstall it.

BigAl3 · 09-01-08, 08:10

Need Help with Flex BP

ptim · 09-02-08, 04:12

Thanks guys, I'm looking into now.

RTexasF · 09-02-08, 06:58

How often does the felt ring need to be oiled?

ptim · 09-02-08, 08:31

Quote:

Originally Posted by RTexasF

How often does the felt ring need to be oiled?

I just called the Flex office, he said to do it one time and I should never have to do it again.

95supra · 09-03-08, 10:29

did you use 2 washers on the backing plate bolt? some say it should help ?

ptim · 09-03-08, 03:18

Quote:

Originally Posted by 95supra

did you use 2 washers on the backing plate bolt? some say it should help ?

Never thought about using washers, for the price of this thing and as strong as they say it is, I would think it would be pretty much plug and go. I never had any problems with my PC.

This was taken from the description of the Flex 3401:

The positive drive ensures a uniform movement, even under load, thanks to constant lift. Taken in conjunction with the large stroke length there is also the possibility of removing existing holograms from black finishes. Thanks to the direct orbital drive, very little heat develops on the surface, which is ideally suited to temperature-sensitive finishes. The accelerator trigger switch and speed selection allow for a controlled acceleration to the optimal speed. Note: the machine's orbital movement has been optimally adapted for the special back pad included with it.

WGMARQ · 09-03-08, 04:21

Mine came with the backing plate already installed. But now I may have to take a look under there !!!!

I've already done 3 cars with it and it has done a great job, but I sure wish there was an option for a smaller backing plate so I could use 4 inch pads for tight spots.