FLEX XFE7-15 (SEMA 2016)
by Reece @ DILast year we were excited to have a first look at the FLEX XFE7-15. This year FLEX had these units in action and an updated release date, late December of this year! FLEX has always been known for their forced rotation 3401 VRG, but the XFE7-15 is a free spinning polisher that features a 15mm throw. This new unit has an orbit rate of 3200-9600 opm (no load), a power output of 420 watts, a cable length of 13 ft, and weighs 5 lbs. All in all, it looks like an awesome option if you are looking for a large throw unit that is backed with the quality we all expect from FLEX! You can pre-order your XFE7-15 by clicking here, and you can check out some awesome shots we snapped from the FLEX booth below:
Where are these new units made? Were there issues with the first units introduced last year???
The XFE-17 is German made and I do not think they had “issues”, as much as it was Flex waiting until it was absolutely perfect to release.
How does the new Flex compare with the Rupes MKII polisher? Rupes is the benchmark and now that they are manufacturing Rupes polishers in the USA it is going to take a big jump in technology for me to switch brands (or a much cheaper price). Glad to see Flex join the long throw revolution. Competition pushes manufacturers to expand the envelope and provides us detailers with better tools.
Robert – We have not been able to use this unit yet as it has not been released, but we have the specs listed on the Buffer Comparison Chart (https://www.detailedimage.com/Auto-Detailing-Guide/Polishing/#buffer-comparison). This will help you compare specs to specs. We are excited to get our hands on this unit and if it is anything like other Flex units, I am sure it is going to be great!
So what’s up with the Flex XCE? Is it DOA due to issues with this XRE? Haven’t heard a peep about it since this time last year!
Mike – At this time we have no word on the XCE. Once we know anything, we will be sure to let you guys know!
I have the 3401 and love it. What does a long throw accomplish.
Ray – It really depends on what you are looking for. The Flex is a forced rotation buffer that will not bog down when using added pressure, which comes in handy when you are trying to correct really heavy or deep imperfections. The large throw allows you to cover a large amount of surface area, correcting more imperfections at a faster rate, and finishing down the paint better (less haze). If you come across deep imperfections, the Flex is hands down the best in my opinion. Otherwise, the Rupes unit, Griot’s Garage BOSS, XFE-17, etc. are all awesome choices.
Can’t wait to meet baby-dub! I hadn’t heard that this was the route you’re going, very cool! Obviously, I knew with both pregnancies (though, three kids and I wouldn’t take that back for anything. It was a mental thing for us. We felt that we needed to be as prepared for two babies and possible and that included knowing (almost most importantly) their gender!