What about my Flex?

[PaintTech]

I'm an old dog who returned to Adam's - I still have my PC7424XP and the FLEX with a  rack full of freshly new Adam's polishing pads from each generation. (I'd stock up when new Gen pads came out and Adam reduced old pads to ridiculous sale prices). 

 

Will any of the newer polishing pads you guys have work with the FLEX (with a different backing plate?) or PC. I'm guessing the 4" pads work fine with the PC using the old focus pad setup?

 

Just trying to figure out what I need to buy to be up to speed on my equipment. 

 

Thanks in advance for the advice. 

 

 

[ledger64]

Not sure if there will be enough room running the 5.5" pads on the flex.  The OEM backing plate is 5.5" and its made to run 6" maybe someone can chime in that has bought these but I run a different setup on my flex so can't say for sure.

 

For the PC you can get a 5" backing plate and run those 5.5 pads. Adams does sell this. just search in the store for backing plate

 

You can get a smaller backing plate for the flex that would probably work better.  I do feel though that flat face pads tend to be better on the flex then a waffle type.  Neither the after market backing plate or flat face pads are sold here so pm for more info if you like

[Dan@Adams]

Hi PaintTech, unfortunately as ledger64 mentions, our current 5.5" pads are too small for the Flex or Rupes 21 with their original backing plates. Flex does make a smaller 4 3/8" backing plate that would work with our 5.5" pads, but I do believe we have been looking into getting some larger pad sizes made by our manufacturer again. Unfortunately I do not have any other updates at this time.

[tmevilsizor]

I personally own a Flex 3401. The original backing plate CAN'T be used with 5.5" pads. I was able to order the smaller backing plate that Dan mentions. Flex makes this smaller plate and is sold under the Flex name. Functionality of the smaller backing plate is equal to the original, except the advantages of a smaller pad! It's relatively cheap (considering the price of the Flex) to change to the smaller backing plate. Heck, the savings from buying 5.5" pads over 6.5" pads will pay for the backing plate quickly. I hope this helps you.

[ledger64]

Additionally,  I do tend to find better control and usability with the smaller dia. plate and pads on the flex.  Its amazing how just an inch smaller really makes the unit that much more versatile.