NEW AT HARBOR FREIGHT! - HERCULES FORCED ROTATION DUAL ACTION POLISHER

[@divindave6117]

Harbor Freight has really stepped up their game in offerings over the last few years. I retired 2 years ago and for something to keep me busy, started detailing cars for a few friends and neighbors. Based on YT reviews, I went ahead and bought the HF polisher - the red one. It's a workhorse and I've had no problems with it at all. When I'm worn out, it keeps on going. I recently bought this blue Hercules one so I didn't have to constantly swap out the pads and I tell ya man, coming from a rookie like me with only 89 cars under his belt, I'm calling it a winner. My gripe though is that long power cord. I don't like winding it up. Not at all. And it took up too much room in my tool chest too. So I cut it off to 8 feet and it's much better now!

[@mackjones7688]

I would much rather they give us a long cord so we can cut it to the length that we want, than disassemble the tool and install a longer cord the first day I buy it because the cord is too short for what I need. Extension cords take skill to use and people have turned my brand new extension cords into a fire hazard on the first day of use. So I appreciate free wire any time I can get it. Your gripe is not real. You were basically given free cord to make a short extension cord with. I call that a good feature. 😂

[@dillon3355]

Hey, I just wanna throw this out there since it's pretty cool. Josh actually does pay attention to the comments and is actually interested in helping all of us out, I told him about this polisher like idk a week ago? And here we are. So flippin cool. THANKS, JOSH!

[@imjoshv]

Absolutely. Thank you for the head up on it!

[@dougmasters3875]

Usually one of the first things to do on any of the HF polishers is to replace the grease with some kind of high quality white lithium grease, and swap the backing plate to a more premium brand. Both of those mods make the HF polishers a joy to use.

[@The1Music2MyEars]

This

[@tylerfraker7716]

What backing plates do you use? My first experience was the Griots big DA and both the machine and backing plate were awful, the bauer backing plates are miles ahead of that, but I’d love to know something miles ahead of those!

[@tylerfraker7716]

Also what brand of white lithium?? I’ve got a few different Bauers now that I’ve been getting ready to go through and re-lube. Thanks in advance!

[@dougmasters3875]

@@tylerfraker7716 I have the Bauer Long Throw, I used Lucas grease and a Rupes 5" backing plate. That turns a $100 polisher into about a $150 polisher that punches above its weight class.

[@tylerfraker7716]

@@dougmasters3875 perfect, that’s what I put in my air tools👍 I’ll have to grab a Rupes plate, thanks for the info!

[@waynedharsan5288]

Makita had the first switchable forced rotation , I wish you would show this king of a machine!! Blows flex out of the water .

[@joevanseeters2873]

For a new detailing enthusiast on a budget, this looks like an excellent option. Fit it with a Flex high end plate (or one of the interchangeable aftermarket flex plates that allow rapid change of the sizes) and you'd have a polishing machine with some "Ooommph" to it, although I think I would start out with a Porter Cable XP or a good Griot's DA first before going to forced rotation which can be a little tricky for people not experienced in polishing. It does have a LOT of power. I have easily burned paint with it myself on my daughter's 2013 Honda Accord using my Flex 3401 corded version. Forced rotation polishing machines do offer exceptional power or torque but it's what you do with that power that produces the exceptional results. I do personally think it's far too aggressive for finishing out anything with high levels of gloss. You either need to use a good quality rotary on a finish pad (also should have a little experience on the rotary) or use a good DA polisher on a good quality finishing pad. I just recently got the SPTA version of the CORDLESS machine that I think you showcased on your channel at one time (not the forced rotation, but the 15mm long throw) and it is an EXCEPTIONAL polisher for half the price of the higher end machines from "the other guys".......... The machine runs super smooth and the set/cycle time is great with the two supplied batteries and charger. It feels very high quality for the price. Once I went to the cordless polishers (I have all the cordless Flex machines including the newer PXE-80 and I love that little machine for macro, close in polishing, I never want to go back to a corded machine, EVER. It also comes with a host of pads and microfiber cloths (I relegate the included accessories to lesser duties or toss them, as I prefer to use the tried-and-true Lake Country pads of all different sizes and hardness types. I am also older than some detailers and have been detailing my cars since I started driving in 1979. I still enjoy the good ole' rotary machine (those new lightweight rotaries are nice to work with) coupled with a good quality waffle pad. The whole waffle/flat pad debate rages on to this very day, but i've always enjoyed using the waffle style and in my opinion, they offer a little less heat and are more forgiving than other style pads if using good polish techniques. However, for 90% of the weekend warriors at home wanting to get into machine polishing on a budget, this looks like a great option. However, for just $100 more (and still about half the price of a Rupes or Flex) you could get your hands on a SPTA 15mm CORDLESS that is built like a tank and runs very smoothly. You could always have this Harbor Freight Forced Rotation Unit on hand as your "back up" polisher in case something did go wrong, OR, just keep it as an additional tool in your polishing box. Realistically, using sales, you may be able to pick up this machine, an SPTA 15mm throw CORDLESS machine, AND a knock off micro polisher, all for about the price of some of the higher end polishers. That's a worthwhile investment for a new detailer starting a business as you'd have a tool for just about anything you are going to encounter. Start out with "enhancement" details and gain experience. Many clients are happy with the results of enhancement polishing. In their eyes, the vehicle looks way better than when they brought it to you or you started on it. Use a good quality enhancement polish that wipes off quickly and easily and you can quickly polish out a vehicle to a level that most owners will be thrilled with. Top it with a long-lasting sealant like Ultralock and you have a nice detail completed for low overhead costs and high profits. Ultralock will give excellent durability too and is WAY easier to install than a ceramic coating but you'll still get about 9 months or so out of it which is great. A new detailer could offer a very comprehensive package using good products that would make it profitable.

[@340Demon]

Just wanted to say I really appreciate your comparisons and knowledge. You don’t bs about what’s worth the expense and what’s not, which is fantastic for DIY and low budget hustlers. I feel like whether I’m in the market for the products or not, I’ll remember your input when I am.

[@imjoshv]

Thanks so much! I really appreciate it

[@zackpickett5344]

I just used the Hercules on a 25 ft boat and did a 5 step correction. One of the biggest differences between the flex and this new machine is the trigger is not as sensitive as the flex. I tried feathering the throttle and it’s not as smooth as the flex for trying to keep it at half throttle or quarter. Ended up just using the dial because it was more consistent. Besides that it is a great machine!

[@Mike-In-O-Town]

I would submit that most amateur detailers should rely on the dial to set and hold speed, not their skills at manipulating the trigger.

[@mariah.garridor.6997]

By locking the speed without having to rely on one hand pressing the trigger, it gives your arm more freedom, reducing fatigue and avoiding carpal tunnel syndrome in the medium or long term.

[@jeffhartman7545]

@@mariah.garridor.6997 great info... After 37 years of running a Rotary with a variable trigger I can appreciate your comment... Especially after getting my recent Carpal tunnel surgery.

[@crowdsurferx]

Been using the Flex 3401 for over 10 years now professional detailing. The thing is built like a tank. No problems yet

[@MegaWeagle]

Just bought the Hercules last week as my very first polisher. Very very happy with the results so far! Big thanks to josh and Larry over at Ammo. They gave me the detailing fever and will be handing out my very first fliers come Saturday. Scary but exciting!

[@imjoshv]

That’s awesome congrats and good luck!!

[@dannyboy8644]

Great review! . At my local harbor freight I received the polisher free, when I purchased a battery and a hercules charger . All three pieces cost approximately # 100 dollars. I agree with you. As a back up and light use 45 ,to one hour , it does the job. 😊

[@tylerfraker7716]

Paint correction is just my final step in restoration work, so I haven’t been able to justify a forced rotation until now. I’ll definitely be picking up the Herc on sale. Thanks for the review!

[@imjoshv]

You bet!

[@tpike32]

Will forced rotation create swirl marks? Holograms?

[@thenegus5469]

@@tpike32its very hard to mess up with any dual action polisher. Just be mindful and you’ll be alright

[@lxrydtl]

​@@tpike32yes it will. Use softer pads and lower speeds in final polish and you can remove holograms created during the cutting stage. 👍

[@thesingingtiggs4781]

Hell ya been waiting for this thing to come out ever since sema. When I first started detailing I got lucky enough to work at a dealer that actually gave a shit and had multiple rupes,flex, and Makita polishers, and a vast swath of pads and polish. I always preferred the flex over everything unless it was white then I'd just go with the air powered rotary and be done....now I can get a forced DA without going broke..good review

[@scottyee707]

What is different about white cars?

[@thesingingtiggs4781]

@@scottyee707 less worry about holograms and swirl marks since white doesn't reflect light the same as darker vehicles

[@scottyee707]

@@thesingingtiggs4781 thanks

[@imjoshv]

Awesome!

[@jwmoo1]

Thanks for sharing this. I’ve been looking at picking up a tool like this but wondered how well it would hold up.

[@robertmachen4364]

Great video! Thank you for pointing out that the backing plates are interchangeable. FLEX puts a serious premium on the 25' cord. Not really worth the extra $$. The Hercules unfortunately does not come with replacement brushes so hopefully there is a parts list that customers can use to order replacement brushes.

[@tomhenry4993]

Always great reviews packed full of info from Josh! Thank you.

[@gangaskan2255]

so i just got the hurcles last night. HF had a 40% coupon, and if you ask nicely you can get the 45% insiders. and they had it set at 99 dollars. so i got it for 55!

[@jeffhartman7545]

Solid review and I agree 100% with your information. Thanks for the video!

[@PeteyMcSavage]

3 harbor freights at$119 vs 1 flex at $460 it’s a no brainer unless the flex has a secret pleasure function!! Also when your flex goes down it $90 to fix it

[@jeffc6832]

If the $460 Flex wasn't created, this wouldn't exist because China wouldn't have had anything to copy. Don't buy this crap. It's theft.

[@brucelavender]

Great comparison video; thank you! Can you comment on the screwdriver tool you used to remove the backing plate?

[@imjoshv]

It actually came with an electric bike that i have. But its just a hex key essentially.

[@richsmith3120]

Very informative video!

[@imjoshv]

Thanks!

[@vas568]

Subscribed! You had me with your pressure washer videos!

[@imjoshv]

Thanks so much

[@Zach-sg5uu]

Thank you for your recommendations!!

[@badass1g]

Just scooped one up I’m excited to see how it compares to my HF DA

[@verdantacres4460]

Great review. Thank you for your info.

[@imjoshv]

Thanks for watching!

[@andrewyounce3301]

​@imjoshv are you going to make a video on the new 7in Hercules Brushless Polisher was really want fo see some specs and info on backing plate changes.

[@Craig419]

Probably gonna get the Hercules. I started with a Bauer DA...it takes a lot of TIME and EFFORT to do paint correction with it. I've gotten great results, but I think the Hercules would cut my time in half...or more. Guys, don't cheap out on a DA if you want to do serious defect reduction!

[@jfraz6246]

As someone who DIYs my cars every 6-12months, my HF DA polisher has done great (it was like $80 on sale), I’m not sure it would hold up on a pace that professionals would use it, but for a tool I’ve used, 6/7 times now, it’s been well worth the money. This new one looks really nice, if my current one gives out I would be tempted to get that (or the Milwaukee but that’s because I just have a lot of red tools😅)

[@imjoshv]

Yea i agree, you dont need to break the bank to get the job done. These Harbor Frieght Polishers perform well especially for the price!

[@MikesAutoDetailing]

great demo work there, Nice job

[@imjoshv]

Thanks Mike

[@Robertmichael95]

I just want to say i just got it and it is a 6in backing plate but the 5inch pads will fit

[@218Kasper]

Definitely a Fan of DA polisher from Milwaukee and its battery powered

[@rolandm9750]

Milwaukee is great for cordless but it's also nearly 3x the price, requires pricey batteries, and is not forced rotation.

[@imjoshv]

Me too! Thats what I use most of the time now. Yes it is expensive when you factor in the batteries but its so convenient

[@samwhittemore5614]

Thank you. This was very well done and useful.

[@divindave6117]

Man I tell ya, Harbor Freight is really stepping up their game over the last few years. It used to be I wouldn't touch one of their cheap power equipment's, but that's not the case anymore.

[@tylerjohnson3164]

Josh what do you use for edge work and delicate corners for correcting?

[@rolandm9750]

I've always considered "forced rotation" to be a "true" DA, whereas RO DAs are really just...RO. Just my take on it. Anyway awesome to hear about this new Herc tool. I kept thinking about getting the long throw Bauer, but haven't yet. But now looks like I might have to wait for a sale on this guy instead! Only thing I don't like is the plastic gear on the backing plate and interior but I guess if the Flex is the same, not really getting around that.

[@imjoshv]

Yeah i agree with the plastic teeth. But like you said, the flex has the same thing and to be honest it fits together really tight without much play so i think that will help for longevity

[@PREDATOR07]

Forced rotation or rotary buffers ( the old ones) Only the real pro detailers know how to use them. The Makita is the only one with switch for random orbital or forced rotation.

[@oldmantex374]

Nice video thanks for staying on point and not wandering all over the place. I have a random, but was looking for a forced rotation as my current ride has lots of curves and uneven surfaces which results in the random bogging down constantly. I'm a DIY'er so no way I'm spending 400 plus dollars for a machine. Thank you for all the good info!!!

[@imjoshv]

Yea this is would be a great option!!!

[@clydestrong2913]

Great vid and very helpful! Thanks!

[@imjoshv]

Thank you!

[@arthurlee5299]

Damn good review!

[@FaizanSubhani]

in my experience my flex xce was leaps ahead in terms of smoothness compared to the hercules. not a bad buy but i personally would say that the flex is smoother and our arms would thank us

[@imjoshv]

yea if youre using it all the time for extended periods of time the flex would be the way to go. But for an entry level for someone this Hercules is a great choice! Or even as a backup to the flex if anything ever happens

[@redsuncarcare]

This is the review that i am waiting for

[@imjoshv]

Awesome, I hope it helped

[@bertastleford4692]

Great video. I picked up some drying towel from harbor freight. They feel awesome. I don't know if they have an Ollie's discount store but they have some great deals on car detailing products. I pick up 2 different McGuires cutting/polishing compounds for 9.99 a piece. They were 50 a piece at harbor freight. Some great deals if you find one but be picky in your purchases. Not everything is a steal.

[@imjoshv]

I dont have an Ollies near me unfortunatley

[@bertastleford4692]

That's too bad. By the way, technicians choice ceramic spray detail spray, is the bomb.

[@2thrive403]

@@bertastleford4692do you use it to wipe the surface after polishing?

[@abrahammerino5999]

Hey Josh love your videos can you do a Chem-X review?

[@404notfound.....]

With the German flex your getting heat treated forged gears ⚙ quality wiring, overload & temperature protection. Remember price is a indicator of quality!! Great review !! 👍🏼

[@oloem268]

What does a forced rotation do that a dual action or a rotary can't ? What are the benefits of using a forced rotation machine?

[@bhcamaro2002]

Very interesting, I'm using the flex 3401 as well

[@imjoshv]

Its a great machine! If anything ever happens with it, its good to know you can run to harbor freight to grab one that will get you through.

[@bhcamaro2002]

@@imjoshv no doubt definitely gonna remember that

[@rickbarg3980]

Detail Factory curveball brush give it a try 42.00 expensive though

[@johnericcardonaesquea8583]

Have you checked out the harbor freight bauer 20 DA i love mines

[@shawcobra]

This Hercules polisher compared to the Bauer one that they sell, whats the difference between them, which is the better one over all?

[@alphag5240]

Hercules is their high end brand and Bauer is cheap brand, and after come some crap brands like warrior and chicago electronics or something

[@kenh733]

I have both the little Bauer 8mm and the 20 mm, the little one has some vibration but the big one is great. This Hercules one is forced rotation so it wont stop on edges and can burn through your paint if you leave it there too long, the big red Bauer one will stop on edges and not burn through, I put a 3 inch backing plate on my little 8mm Bauer and put a 5 inch one on the big one. This Hercules would work the best on big flat panels with not a lot of curves, just my guess, i am not a pro, just work on my own cars

[@redsuncarcare]

@@kenh733 I’m a Modesta installer here in Baton Rouge, working alot with curvy super/hyper cars. I agree with you sir!

[@imjoshv]

well said!

[@peterscanlon9727]

Are brushes available? Would flex brushes fit?

[@imjoshv]

Thats a great question... Im not sure but ill see if i can find any info on that

[@leehill3844]

Have you done a review of the Stars and Stripes from Chem x yet? I’m super excited to see your review of it!

[@j.a.1265]

I have the flex for a long time, you must grease it for optimal performance and longevity.

[@bluegrasskid4835]

Which grease do you use?

[@j.a.1265]

@@bluegrasskid4835 liquid wrench, L1004 super machine oil. It is a clear, penetrating oil which you saturate the foam O-ring and it lasts a long, long time.

[@figurado1]

The Hercules version does not come with an extra set of brushes and you can't buy them or any other parts for this polisher. The owners manual does not include a parts diagram.

[@Okie-Tom]

Nice comparison. The only major thing I don’t hear you tell about was what is the throw of each of these! Is it 8mm, 15mm or what? Thanks. Tom

[@Irish-caddy]

Great video boss 👍 keep her lit 🔥 🇮🇪

[@imjoshv]

Thanks!

[@imjoshv]

I have! Great value

[@luisguzman9448]

What is your opinion on the Bauer 7.5 Amp 6 in. Long-Throw Random Orbit DA Polisher?

[@stilltrying2gopro829]

Hmm what do yal think on the Hercules w/ extended warranty vs the Griots G9 with a lifetime warranty? I detail on most weekends for a side hustle.

[@imjoshv]

Hmmm… for me I think if you are making money and rely on your tools I’d probably go with the griots. The Hercules could be a good back up

[@Austinlostinspace]

I have been using the g9 for a couple years for my business and the trigger lock finally broke - while I wait for that to ship to them and be replaced I actually went and got the Baur long throw at HF to use in the meantime and then it will be my backup when my g9 comes back. I almost went with the hercules for the forced rotation but realized I enjoy the random oribtal polishers. Get the g9 first then save for the backup from HF wether its baur or hercules.

[@brianjones6893]

How are the paint correction results using the same compounds and buffer pads? Comparable? Same? Night and day?

[@jrv858]

Great overview i own the flex couple years have 2 rotarys the flex seems to vibrate a little to much i don't know if is normal or not but i tend to like and use my rotary better

[@imjoshv]

yea the oscillation can make it feel like it wobbles more than a rotary would.

[@ronrickel5066]

Has anyone used a 3" backing plate with this HF polisher? If so, which one? Thanks in advance for any information!

[@GodsWiLL1974]

I need a backing plate for my Hercules DA polisher where can I purchase one Harbor freight doesn’t have one

[@inkgenie9760]

great comparison!

[@lauraw79]

Hey Josh, really appreciate this review. I am going to pick it up when its back in stock at my local HF. Just getting into DIY polishing for one of my older cars. QUESTION - Wanted to ask what pads you'd recommend for the Hercules? doing a two step process with your suggested Meguires Pro 110 / 220. Thanks for your feedback and support. Bless

[@kevinduran6517]

If you're starting and want something simple to do corrections that give you a good result, you can try the 50/50 URO Fiber pads with the 3D ONE compound. Nice cut and polish in one, I usually use that with my MAXSHINE DA haven't used it with a forced rotation DA but maybe Josh can shed some light on us if he has input on that. 👍🏻

[@fuzzycuffs]

I didn't even know about forced rotation polishers. Question though: if you already have a DA would it be an upgrade to go with forced rotation, or are there situations that call for DA vs FR, or just different experiences where it's personal preference?

[@johnericcardonaesquea8583]

It’s the same bud

[@Just_Jesus_ef]

Personal preference

[@mariah.garridor.6997]

When you have to polish certain angles where the traditional DA does not rotate but only oscillates, the forced rotation will not stop rotating or oscillating.

[@fuzzycuffs]

@@mariah.garridor.6997 that's kind of what I was thinking, but if that's the case why not use a forced rotation all the time? For flat surfaces the FR polisher will do the same thing as the typical DA, so wouldn't the FR version be more useful in all situations?

[@imjoshv]

for me, i use a standard da 95% off the time. Typically if there is an angle that causes my DA to bog, i hit it with a rotary then com back with the da to finish it. A forced rotation can take the place of the rotary in that situation. Personally the regular DA is so easy to use in comparison, thats why i still prefer it. Also why i never paid the higher price for a forced rotation when i first started out. But with this one it is cheap enough to add to the arsenal and then its there when you need it

[@BetweenTwoForks]

Is it safe to assume that this is more than capable for the weekend warrior/hobbyist? I have a 1st gen Griott polisher and it's a nice machine but doesn't have enough power to use some of the newer pads (The clay pads and uro pads just bogs down with any pressure/weight of the machine). I'm just trying to do a small paint correction on my car due to all the scratches from people not minding their purses and bags.

[@biofractal78]

If anyone can help.... I really love this machine and I would like to use it with 5 inch pads. Is there anyway to replace the back plate? Not only the ones I have found on Amazon are over $40 but I have no idea if they will fit/work. Thx!

[@Duzzy126]

Question! In terms of value and being a beginner, how would this compare to a similar pricepoint of the MaxShine M8S V2? For $129 would it be more valuable to spend $10 more for that unit?

[@imjoshv]

The Maxshine m8s v2 is an easier polisher to use. It is not a forced rotation da so you really can operate it one handed. If youre new to polishers, i think the maxshine or similar polisher that is not forced rotation would be easier to learn with

[@Duzzy126]

@@imjoshv Perfect, thanks for taking the time to respond! Definitely helpful.

[@jaynearman256]

It's a really interesting screwdriver where do you get that. I was in harbor freight last week looking at the new Hercules machine I was actually waiting on people to do a review on it before I consider buying it

[@martinneps9387]

I am looking for a buffer to buff.A diamond plate toolbox on my truck.Which one would you choose?Please comment back thank you

[@pacmandiez]

My man! Great video..question brotha..I work on boats..some gel coat some paint. Super indecisive now with getting a orbital or forced (I have a makita rotary already). Constantly thinking if these polishers will do a well enough job on gel coat that’s oxidized from sun. I’ve always used wool then foam on my makita but is want to go cordless and can’t decide which. Would love your opinion. Cheers!

[@Auto-Bots.Custom.Detailing]

Where did you get that tri-key allen wrench?? Love it

[@scottkelley1558]

Thst is a bicycle tool. Any REI store or bike shop.

[@theBtotheJ23]

Would this be a good polisher to learn with? I have a detailing business and I want to add paint corrections to my arsenal.

[@Lm701]

Where do I find that 5 inch backing plate? I'm finding the stupid 5.5 inch one fits no pads.

[@coltondenton9360]

Ik im posting to an older video but i just picke dup the H.F forced rotation last night and i noticed the backing plate as a loy of wobble making the machine rock alot as you polish. Im wondering if anybody else has had this experience with this machine thank you!

[@imjoshv]

Mine did not do that.. can you tighten it down? If not I would take it back and swap it for a new one

[@coltondenton9360]

@imjoshv thanks for the reply this is why I'm subscribed!. I took it apart and put it back together it helped it some but there's still some wobble. Gonna take it back and see if the next one does it. Thank you again. Keep doing what you're love your content!

[@yobingbongyah4676]

can you suggest a similar polisher but in a 3 inch

[@isaiahmonk8148]

So would you prefer the Hercules over the Max shine and the bauer if this is my first polisher?

[@imjoshv]

Honestly i would go with the bauer or the maxshine if it were my first polisher. Because those ones are not forced rotation, they are much easy to use and more forgiving

[@MrAchilles113]

Ive seen Detailer blogs mention a gear driven machine is risky for beginners and more likely to burn/remove paint. Any truth to this? Would I be better off with a long throw orbital 15m or so as my only machine for home use? Or is it easy to learn to manage a gear driven and is the extra power really worthwhile?

[@Arrowsmith86]

Hey Josh, would you recommend this or the cordless da polisher from HF? Waiting for one of these to go on sale 😂

[@nickcangelosi1836]

Where did you get the “Tri-Wrench” to unscrew the backing plates? Link? Also, if I’ve got the 5” cordless Makita, essentially it has the same function as the Hercules, correct? Regarding forced rotation?

[@Badeau68]

Yes I would think that the Makita would do the job. IMO 👍

[@rodtofly3]

Do you recommend the ryobi 1600 or 1800 pressure washer?

[@imjoshv]

Extremely similar performance between the 2 so i would just go with whichever one i could get for the best price

[@billbuss7542]

Does Harbor Freight have a battery powered model?

[@Mike-In-O-Town]

Just to verify, the Hercules has 'detents' on speed dial? The Bauer random orbit dual action I tried did not have detents in the speed dial and would vibrate the dial to lower settings during use. Incredibly annoying issue that forced me to return it. When will manufacturers of buffers get a clue and add detachable power cords to their units. Milwaukee does that with a number of their tools making storing the tool easier without the long cord. Also makes replacing a damaged cord a no brainer. What to buy between these two buffers comes purely down to 'Use Case'. Most DIY'ers and weekend amateur detailers (like me) should go with the less expensive unit. The FLEX or Rupes are fantastic units, but are not worth the added cost for anyone short of pro detailers.

[@imjoshv]

Very interesting about the bauer! For the detachable power cords, The Griots Polishers have that feature! But i agree it would be nice if they all did. Right where the cord comes out of the housing is always where it breaks anyways it seams.

[@allenpearson9716]

How was the vibration of the Hercules?

[@imjoshv]

its there but its not terrible, Witha forced rotation machine you do feel the torque a but more too

[@thekillerslazh8474]

The polish Hercules machine is good for beginners that wan do the firts time polish ?

[@imjoshv]

Yes and no. I think its a great beginner polisher, but a regular random orbital dual action is easieer to use. So if youre brand new id go with that

[@PREDATOR07]

Why did he skipped the king of Makita the only one with real dual functions with switch to operate forced rotation or random orbital? perhaps the price of $420°° with cord?

[@luizalberto7698]

What polishing pads do you use or recommend for the Hercules polisher?

[@AMP8424]

Lake Country, Rupes, Oberk etc

[@mtbkr81]

I am at a confused point with my ryobi da. For some reason it doesn’t rotate like at all with minimal pressure. It still ocellates but doesn’t rotate is this thing garbage?

[@Tyler_Bergman]

Do you recommend it over a traditional da as my only polisher

[@imjoshv]

I personally would stick with a traditional da. My go to is a 15mm throw regular DA. I use that 95% of the time

[@Tyler_Bergman]

@@imjoshv thanks Josh your the man!! by the way, Walmart has come out with a new roll of microfiber rags that are slightly higher quality than the last ones I recommended you review!

[@o0Hotiron0o]

Thank you

[@nwitten]

How do you ball up the cord like that?!!

[@tommyaoi1183]

😏

[@bobadingo]

Random orbit , DA , forced rotation! those machines are for beginners/detailers. In the world of Professional Auto Body we do not use those type tools for multiple reasons, like trying to polish a 38'customRV or a tunnelHull racing boat With a orbital would get you fired and looking for another job! Production work requires the correct equipment&produces to give Ultimate finishing standards.. .

[@sacballa_kills_em_wit_facts]

Old habits.

[@tallsz559]

Looks a lot like the $70 hyper tough one sold at Walmart via first glance

[@ositoandhisadventures]

Is this a good polisher for beginners?

[@chaverria]

But what are the damn settings! What 1 though 6 Too, as far as oscillations per minute or speed??? I know one is slow and six is fast… But what do they equate to? The manual gives no direction whatsoever.

[@mlhm5]

4:1 cost wise.

[@imjoshv]

yea thats a big factor

[@CaliforniaCasey]

🏆

[@xploration1437]

don’t be gAy

[@Auto-Bots.Custom.Detailing]

Come on Josh, you are going to endorse an extra?$350 purchase? Flex and Rupes are top of the line..but I would be more confident if the HF, with good pads and compounds

[@imjoshv]

For a full time pro I’d say spend the extra money but for someone not doing a lot of corrections or even someone like me who is a professional but I don’t use a forced rotation machine very much, this is perfect

[@RentableSocks]

waiting for brushless, battery version of the herc. will destroy

[@imjoshv]

yep that would be awesome

[@RentableSocks]

@@imjoshv brushed motors create debris as they run, do you think that could impact the quality of polish?

[@Badeau68]

​@@RentableSocks IMO, if you think you have build up from the brushes might be a good idea just to blow it out with compressed air. Overtime the brushes could have excessive debris therefore compressed air would clean it from affecting the Polish

[@RentableSocks]

@@Badeau68 i just mean any debris, even a clean commutator and perfect brush will spray carbon dust. plus, what is this like the 1950s cmon we have brushless motors we should USE THEM!

[@michaeltammaro482]

$470 for the Flex???! LOL!!! Absolutely out of their minds.

[@Amor1990]

15mm is a long throw

[@imjoshv]

correct

[@MyGuyKirby]

Price cannot be beat, looks like they copied the original Flex Beast.

[@albisasky766]

Unfortunately, like most power tools sold by Harbor Freight, they will not last. Poor quality control.

[@imjoshv]

I agree in most cases. But it does seem that they are trying to increase quality... I will still keep this though as a good back up option

[@Bigheadedwon]

Not all HF stuff is junk like it use to be. I don’t know about this machine, but for a decent amount of their stuff they have stepped it way up.

[@marcelofrasson5478]

Blue flex kkk