Mobile Tech Expo – Part 3 My Initial Observations Of The New Liquid Elements And Rupes Polishers

by Rodney Tatum

Just My Initial Observations

I want to caution viewers and readers that this is my initial observation of newer products brought into the auto detailing industry. You can often get a generalized and rough idea of a product very soon if you are somewhat educated on detailing. I find it difficult to believe any reviewer can provide 100% accurate product feedback (including tools) without potential years of use. Yes, I am well aware of our need for instant gratification and for picking sides.

Assuming the tool and pad are both Rupes products, there is nothing smoother that I have used than the Rupes polishers. The picture (above) is an affirmation of that experience. That assessment includes the Liquid Elements entry and professional level polishers.

With that said, I have found myself gravitating towards Liquid Elements polishers, entry level and especially now the professional model, in the past year. There is the category of smoothest, which Rupes wins. But there is the category of smoothest entry level, relative to a Porter Cable, advantage Liquid Elements. For the professional line of polishers, noise level and vibration control, these tools are outstanding. An effective polisher, at defect removal! I have used the Flex 3401 and other Forced Rotation polishers, known more for (cutting) compounding versus refining. I believe that power wise it has a feel of a tool that can mimic that kind of cutting power. That analysis came from not only testing it with microfiber pads but to my surprise foam cutting pads with their system. The bags that come with the pro and entry level polishers are also a nice touch.

Full transparency I am not yet the owner of the cordless 15mm and 21mm Rupes Bigfoot Ibrid HLR15 DA polishers. With that said, as a messenger of the proverbial noise heard from within the industry, there is one critique I do have for the company. One way or another addressing the quality control frustrations professionals are experiencing with the new tools, with respect to needing repairs with greater frequency. Two layers to this. Higher price point with more budget friendly effective tools in the market paired with the seemingly increasing need for repairs! I cannot ignore the numerous stories of frustrated professionals who ship their tools for repair more frequently than they would like. I understand they have a great maintenance program for their consumers, but many other companies do as well. This is me speaking as a fan and still advocate of this company. I spend a lot of time polishing cars. Rupes has made my experience rewarding versus debilitating.

With that said, I hope that either or both 2 things happen. Improvements are made to limit the number of times the tools need repair or replacement. Communication and transparency needs to be elevated in regard to informing us as consumers what is needed to improve the lifespan of the tools we investment a great deal of money in. This is the critical perspective of a low volume operator who has connections to high volume detailing operations, a business owner exercising empathy, and also someone who is a consumer.