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Hi Guys

I'm thinking of purchasing a new sander, and just wondered what I shold be looking for, is a 5" Disc suitable for guitar making ? Secondly I have notice the machines vary alot in terms of Min Rpm, whats a good speed for final sanding guitars ?

Thanks for your help.

I've been using a Porter Cable 333 with Velcro attached discs for about 15 years. It's been reliable. I've nothing to compare it to...one of my painters said he didn't like it. Preferered Dewalt, I think.

For the PC 333, you might pay about $75-85 I think

My DeWalt 431 5" RO just died last week (actually the bearings went out) so I replaced it with another DeWalt. Gosh, sanders with new bearings sure are a joy to use. My hands don't tingle anymore

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tim...
http://www.mcknightguitars.com

I used a PC 333 for several years and when the bearings went out on it, I replaced it with same...bearings went out on it in a WEEK! I'm considering a DeWalt this time...by the by, do any of you guys sand the sides of completed boxes on the belt sander? The idea scares me to death, especially with thinner sides like .075 or so!

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http://www.presnallguitars.com

Thanks Guys are the models you use variable speed ?

I've got a Dewalt 423 5". I like it and it works well. I also like the dust collection bag - quick and easy to clean.

I've used the variable speed feature only once or twice and the only problem I've had was when it wouldn't start up until I played around with the variable speed knob. I now just leave it at max and don't fool with the variable speed. I can see the day when I'll have to bypass the variable speed switch. IMO, get a single speed and save a few bucks.

[QUOTE=RussellR] Thanks Guys are the models you use variable speed ? [/QUOTE]

PC 333 is single speed

Russell, get hold of the Axminster catalogue or look on line, they list the main ROS available in the UK (240V), and rate them for use. Important is the orbit diameter, high for rapid removal low for fine work. If you don't mind a 150mm machine the Metabo SXE450Duo has double orbit range 3mm for fine and 6mm for course and is Industrial rated. I have two a Bosch 400 for fine and a Metabo 425 for course, both have been excellent.

Colin

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I don't believe in anything, I simply make use of a set of reasonable working hypotheses.

Thanks very much for the help guys, much appreciatted.

Russell

Thanks Colin.

I am set up for both 240V and 110V. I actually found that a place that does the Porter Cable ones in 240V.
I use Axminster for stuff, so had a look at Metabos I've heard good things about them. I am having major deliberations at the moment As I have seen a Dewalt, Makita, Metabo, and a Ryobi that I like.

I also quite like the look of the Porter Cables but don't know much about them.

Decisions, Decisions.

the orbit size and speed will determine rate of stock removal and quality of finish. find the ones that do what you want in those terms then try them in your hand. fit and vibration level have a lot to do with the controlability and the time you can use one. one wtill wants to be able to play! i have a couple of the p-c 333vs(variable speed) models and am very happy with them.

and think about the air powered ones if you have a good compressor. some of the dynabrade models have fairly low air requirements.cmm38595.8285300926

[QUOTE=L. Presnall] I used a PC 333 for several years and when the bearings went out on it, I replaced it with same...bearings went out on it in a WEEK! I'm considering a DeWalt this time...by the by, do any of you guys sand the sides of completed boxes on the belt sander? The idea scares me to death, especially with thinner sides like .075 or so!

[/QUOTE]

Hi Larry:
I use a 6" belt sander to flatten the neck area and I have also used it on occasion to take "potato chip" spots out of highly figured wood (like Bubinga, arrrrrgh) and it works well but does make you pucker and hang on for dear life

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tim...
http://www.mcknightguitars.com