Alex I'm 99% certain that Griots previous RO was a rebadged PC 7424 and the current one is the PC 7424 XP. Griots started advertising their new more RO at exactly the same time the new XP was released and they described it's improvements they way PC did.

I'll take a look at mine today and determine if the backing plate can be removed. I'm inclined to think it does since it includes a wrench in the box but I never bothered to determine its purpose since I don't really change backing plates.

 

If that is the case, i wonder how Griot's is pumping out more power?

I do prefer the handle configuration on the Griot's and the Flex.

By the way, where is it made?

 

I haven't compared the power, is Griots advertising more power? I do know Griots includes a set of brushes for the motor, not sure if PC's include this?

The backing plate is removable but I'm not certain what the thread dimensions are.

It's made in China which explains why my first one bit the dust quickly. I hope this one lasts longer.

 

Griot's: More Powerful 7-Amp, 850-Watt Motor

Porter Cable 7424XP: 4.5 Amp.

Thats going to be a need to know. I'll e-mail Griot's for that info.

Well anyone can produce junk no matter where it is made. Just that if it is made in China, either profits are higher or retail price should be lower. I'd expect to pay substantially less for a no-name product.

 

The upside to buying anything from Griots is that they back what they sell for a lifetime. For normal use, the products should last for many years. I use my PC and vacuum cleaner extensively which is why I've replaced both a couple of times already.

 

Alex,
Did you ever pull the trigger?

 

Not yet...I'm in no rush and I have too many need-to-do-things on my plate right now.

I'm leaning towards the Griot's or Flex. I prefer the handle layout on these machines.

 

Good choice...I sent my first PC back to Griots because the side handle stripped out of the threads. May have been my fault but Griots exchanged w/o question then Richard invented his own which is the current model. Good luck

 

We use the FLEX at least 4-5 times each month Alex. If you're considering the Griot's over the FLEX, I'd highly recommend the latter.

I'm pretty confident the Griot's is not a relabeled PC...I've used both, and they're not the same. Griot's version is more sturdy, better built, and more quiet.

The FLEX is a work horse that is VERY well-built and it's a tool you will not outgrow. Think about it...we use it over the rotary 80% of the time. Let me know if you have specific questions on the units. Here are a few items you may want to consider..

http://www.glisteningperfectionstore...2C-dual/Detail

http://www.glisteningperfectionstore...sh-Kits/Detail

 

I'll keep you all in suspense as I won't be making my final decision till mid summer (July-August). I'm too busy till then.

As for one being 2.5 times the price of the other, I guess I could have also bought a $50 torque wrench instead of spending more on my Snap-On torque wrenches that I have personally calibrated and trust. It'll boil down to best price and free shipping.

 

I'm going for the FLEX.

I've always said, buy quality, buy once. Poor people can't afford to buy junk and rich people don't. I'm not the latter.

 

Great idea....you'll love the machine.

If you guys are interested, we can do a group buy on the flex. Let me know.

 

Hi Moe,

Touchy subject and I'm all for competition, but to be fair to Phil at Detailer's Domain I will be giving him my business provided he has the same offer going and good service when I am ready to purchase. I'd treat you the same if you got my attention first.

There are enough people on here that appreciate quality. Maybe the group buy could be split between the two of you.

 

group buy? uhmmmm, this is tempting - I hope this lifts off the ground.

 

I would be interested.