Hello Rod-builders, I was looking at purchasing the Flex Coat VSM variable speed motor for both applying finish as well as rod drying. The motor operates from 40 - 200 RPMs. I was leaning towards this unit for straighter finish lines. However, I was told that the 40 RPM minimum speed is too fast for rod drying. My first instinct is no way, 18 rpms okay, but is 40 too fast so I wanted to check with the community to see if this is truth or myth.

Also $200 is a little steep for me, is their any motors under $100 that you would highly recommend as a large % of reviews on sub $100 units don't inspire confidence.

Thanks
Bob



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 11/16/2023 05:40PM by Bob Ferreira.

A straight finish edge off the end of the wrap has little to do with the RPM of the motor.

40 RPM is not necessarily too fast for finish curing. I don't generally don't use a drying motor but when I have I prefer 18 RPM. The Flex Coat machine is very versatile and I suspect that you could buy a simple two dozen dollar finishing motor and adapt it to the machine. Call John Cates at Flex Coat and ask. He'll get you dialed in.

.............

I prefer 18 rpm for drying, but the speed has nothing to do with straight edges. Personally, I’d just simply tape off the area if I weren’t able to control the brush, or spatula, enough to get a straight edge without taping.

Thanks for replies so far. So if you do not need really higher rpms for straighter edges I guess all i really need is a single speed low rpm system.

So I guess the next question is flex coat vs crb. Flex coat is considerably more money but looks better built (more sturdy). What would you buy if you were me?

Also is it worth getting the slip clutch, it seems very practical so I am leaning towards getting it.

Thanks,
Bob

Bob,
It's easier to get straight edges with the hi speed FC motor because it is easier to keep a steady hand for the time it takes the 200 RPM motor to do its job.
I like FC because support is just a phone call away - I.e. John Cates.
Herb
CTS

Flex-Coat.

Yeah, after talking to John at flex coat today it is an easy decision. Thanks to all for the insights.

You definitely want the slip clutch!

Bob,
What speed do you really need for finish application.
For example, if you simply use a 100 rpm motor with the slip clutch and a variable speed controller and power supply you can easily have dryig speeds down to 10 rpm.

This is a dryer that I built in 2018 using a flex coat chuck as the connecter to the rod.

[www.rodbuilding.org]

This was a stand that I have used for many different motors over the years - hence the many holes in the metal.

The motor is a 24 volt motor with a 24 volt power supply and an inline speed controller.

Choices - it is up to you.

But, if you don't want to build your own, then the flex coat system is certainly an excellent option.