Do I need to upgrade?

[Big Slick]

I have an old 7424 (non XP) and I've been curious as to how much of a difference the newer, more powerful models like the Griots or Megs G2 make when it comes to corrections.  I have been using megs 105 with flat orange LC pads and it's difficult to remove the swirls in the paint of my truck (2005 f150).  I typically have to go over and over one area to get semi- acceptable results. 

Thanks!

[gipraw]

If you are going to upgrade, I would recommend picking up a Flex XC 3401 VRG.

Since you already have a DA, the Flex would be the next step, imo.

[Rollingrock]

I second that on the flex....

I would not use the flex with the Megs MF system, it's more suited for the DA. 

Cheers

[sscully]

3rd for the Flex if you are upgrading.

I use mine with the Optimum MF pads with great results.
- Quick defect removal.

I was not much impressed by the Megs MF system in general, so I would say don't use. 
- Megs claims it works with a DA or Rotary.

[Too Stroked]

I have a 7424 (non XP) and the Flex 3401. They both have their places, but I'd vote for upgrading to the Flex too. It's a sweet machine.

[Big Slick]

The Flex is still pretty pricey, no?  Last I looked, it's double what a GG or Megs polisher would go for?  I would love to have one, obviously but it's something I would only use a couple times a year.

I read up on the MF kit yesterday.  Seems very interesting...

[Too Stroked]

Pricey yes, but a definite step up from the 7424. I just don't think the XP version will give you that much more.

[sscully]

I would not say "still". 
It is a different animal compared to a GG or Megs, which makes it cost more.
- the Flex is a forced rotation DA, which a GG or Megs is not.  No matter what you read, a GG does not have the gear driven backing plate.

Comparing a Flex to a GG or Megs is apples and zebras.

If you have a working 7424, there is no need to look at a GG or megs.
At best it will be marginally better, what I would expect; no noticeable change from what you have.

If you are interested in the MF pads, take a look at the OPT and Lake Country ones.

OPT has polish and cutting MF pads, that will work with the compound and polish you have now.

The Lake Country one, you change what it is by changing the product applied to it.
- Kind of hard to do if you use PB ProPolish, that changes depending on the pad you use.

I did a write up on the OPT vs Megs MF pads in the pad section here.

[Kitzy]

Apples and zebras he says...

Sorry.  That made me chuckle. 

Back to the topic at hand.

The flex is worth the money.  No sense is upgrading DAs.  I did.  Pocket that money and use it towards a flex.  Smile and pat yourself on the back after you use it for the first time.

[Rollingrock]

The flex is worth the money if you are going to use it for what is designed for. 

It's in a different class than a 7424.

I can tell you, I own a 7424 and a 7424XP and I can report that the XP is stronger and won't bog down as much....that said, if I need to really correct something, I use my Flex.   I still use my DA's often, they have their place for sure.   And the MF system works GREAT with them....Steve (Scully) mentions the OPT MF system, I cannot speak to that but if I know OPT products, I am sure they do exactly what they are designed to do.    Either way, if you need to correct with a stronger, better built, better designed machine, the Flex is the way to go.   But keep your PC...use it with 3.5" pads...that will change your life too.  I corrected an Expedition with a DA using a 3.5" pad.   Makes you learn how to work if you ask me.   You can really seen product breakdown with a smaller pad.   Just my .02 on it.   

[Big Slick]

Thanks for the input.  I'm in need of pads so I think I'll pick up some MF's and see how they do and if I'm still not happy, I'll consider the Flex a little harder. 

sscully, your write up is in which section?

[sscully]

the pad section on the site here.

[Kitzy]

This one? http://www.thedetailerscafe.com/smf/index.php?topic=2607.0