What next after PC 7424xp?

1Kona_Venom

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So I have had a Porter Cable 7424XP for the last 5 years. What polishers would be a decent upgrade to this one? I do detailing on the side, F150 truck and the cars. Thinking something with a larger coverage area maybe? Thoughts on going to a Flex XC 3401 VRG Dual Action Orbital or just keep the Porter Cable?
 

Merlinii

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I'm a big fan of the Rupes Bigfoot.
Personally, I'd go with a 21 throw and a 5" backing plate.
The PC can/will get the job done but it takes a while.
if you're detailing on the side I'd go with a Rupes 21.
 

HudsonFalcon

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I went from the PC 7424xp to the Torq 10fx.

Won't be able to use it till spring but I got a good deal on it from eBay.
 

Merlinii

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If you want to stay with the 8mm throw and would like a more power then I would suggest the Griot's 6" polisher.
My first suggestion would be to switch to a 5" backing plate and 5" pads.
I like the Megs 5" DBP5. It will fit on both the PC and the Griots 6"
 

1Kona_Venom

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Think I will go with the Flex 3401. Try it out. Looked around and read up on some of the features. Although it looks like some people like to pair up the Bigfoot and the Flex 3401 depending on the job requirements.
But for my needs, the 3401 should be an improvement for now.

Thanks for the responses
 

Merlinii

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IIRC the new Rupes Millie was designed by the same person that designed the 3401 over 10 years ago.
IMHO the 3401 pulls when you are using it. I feel it wears you out by the end of the day.
I rarely use a direct drive DA but I have used the direct drive Rupes Millie. It is very smooth.
If I was in the market for a direct drive DA I would definitely check out the Millie.

Btw - PM welcomed
 

Drive XR7

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The PC on high speed kills my wrists. Too much vibration. I need something more well balanced. Will Rupes or Flex do that? I would also like something with forced rotation.
 

Merlinii

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As you can see there are a lot of folks that really like Rupes tools.
IMHO the Flex 3401 pulls (reverse spin) and works you kinda hard.

This vid shows how well a Rupes 21 is balanced. (try this with a 3401)

If you are stuck on a direct drive machine then my vote goes to the Rupes Mille.

RUPES Big Foot LK900E Mille Review and FLEX 3401 - Direct drive machines.
This is a long video but very informative review. It's worth the time to watch.

I personally would go for the Rupes 21 with a 5" backing plate as my go-to tool.
What are your thoughts? Why are you leaning towards a forced rotation machine?
 
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Merlinii

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MHO - Clear coat is precious and irreplaceable!

I think of paint correction as a stack of 100 sheets of paper and I only remove 2 sheets to do my job.
I do that using the least aggressive method to accomplish the best results possible.

IMHO - Direct drive has its place but it is a much more aggressive tool. (it removes more CC faster)
Are you looking for a good job fast, or the best job with the highest quality finish?
I strive for the best possible results removing the least amount of clear coat in the process.

I have about nine different machines. IMHO Each one is different and each has its pros and cons.
If I only could have one machine my tool of choice would be the Rupes 21 with a 5" backing plate.

Here are a few videos of vehicles I have done. AMiracleDetailing
 

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