Whats the difference between dual action orbital and random orbital polishers?

[Civicclutch]

So i`ve been looking at different polishers and i`ve seen some listed as da while others are listed as random orbit. and im wondering what the difference is between the two, as well as which would work better at paint correction and why?

i`ve been looking mostly at the flex 3401 at this point

thanks in advance for any and all input

[RaysWay]

Dual Action = There are two actions....rotation and oscillation. When both actions are combined, we call it "Dual Action".



Random Orbital = The rotation and oscillation are random, not a fixed path.

The Flex 3401 is a Dual Action polisher, and because of the forced rotation is NOT random. The path of the pad or orbital action never changes and is fixed, even if pressure is applied.

For example, imagine if the path of the Flex 3401 looks like this:



It would never change depending on the speed or pressure. On the other hand, a random orbital polishers path would change if you applied more or less pressure.

[Stokdgs]

Civicclutch -

Having just read a perfect explanation above from Vega, all I can add from having the Flex 3401VRG since around 2004 I believe, it is a very good machine..
You will have vibration from it that may or may not be a good thing for your joints, etc., and the pad rotation is counter-clockwise, in a clockwise world..

If neither of those things are a problem for you, I believe you will be fine with this capable machine..

I would recommend first getting the 5" backing plate and pads for that size backing plate, and this alone will make the machine a lot more manageable in your hands... I believe they even sell smaller backing plates for it now and those might also be a good thing if you want to go that route..

Good luck with your research !
Dan F

[JustJesus]

I just received my 3401 yesterday. Feels solid, just like the PE14. I don`t think I`ll be able to use it until maybe the 23rd or 24.

And yes, Lake Country makes a 4" BP to use with 4" and 5" pads, and Flex themselves have the 4 3/8 (I think) size. I put on a 5" Lake Country Hybrid pad onto the 4" plate, and it`s a perfect fit.

[Civicclutch]

the reason i asked i saw on amazon flex 3401 as an orbital and a da. i already have 5.5 pads for my pc and like that size and would be getting the 5 backing plate so i can keep using the pads i already have

[Angus]

I love my 3401! It`s a great machine. Yes it`s 2X more expensive then a Griots 6` or PC but IMHO worth it.

[Civicclutch]

so then on amazon it has the Flex XC3401VRG Positive-Drive Rotary-Orbital Polisher, is this then what im lookin for

[Angus]

Nah, you want this one:

Flex XC 3401 VRG Dual Action Orbital Polisher, Flex Polisher, Flex 3401 Polisher

[jrock645]

I`d strongly recommend a Rupes. The Flex is a great machine but will wear you out with all the vibration. Rupes polishers are buttery smooth and very pleasant to use. You`ll feel brand new even after a whole day of polishing.

[ShawnF350]

I`d strongly recommend a Rupes. The Flex is a great machine but will wear you out with all the vibration. Rupes polishers are buttery smooth and very pleasant to use. You`ll feel brand new even after a whole day of polishing.

I second that!

[Civicclutch]

i do plan on getting a rupes down the road but i like the idea of a direct drive da

[jrock645]

i do plan on getting a rupes down the road but i like the idea of a direct drive da

Just curious, what about that terminology gets your jollies off?