[hgufrin]

I have a Craftsmen DA sander. Orbit Diameter is 3/16 and max speed 10,000 rpms. Is this the same as a random orbit sander? Can I use this with Abralon pads?

Or is this not the type of sander to use. It is the one with a handle on it. Not a palm sander. I used it in past to level body filler.

I do have a Hutchins nib/spot random orbit sander but it is only a 3".

I would hate to buy another sander for $200.

Just need to know if i can use this one.

[MARTINSR]

It sounds like your Craftsmen sander is a "DA" and not very good for finishing or fine work. Does it have a lock right above the sanding pad that will prevent it from orbiting and act as a grinder with the disc only spinning?

Brian

[hgufrin]

yes it does have that lock. is that good or bad?

[astroracer]

D/A stands for "Dual Action" the locking feature lets your D/A work as a random orbit sander when unlocked or a grinder/sander when locked.
I would think it would work just fine for finish work when unlocked. I use mine with a 3M soft pad all the time with good results.
Mark

[hgufrin]

good enough

[jcclark]

That lock is what makes it random orbit or "spin only"
Some DA's don't have that choice so your's is both.

[adtkart]

That kind can be used for that, however they are harder to control. The palm type are easier to use and most have smaller orbits. If you are going to use it to make a living, I would strongly suggest buying a name brand like Dynabrade or Hutchens. If it is something that you only need for this job and are not planning on using often, they can be bought at alot of places for alot less money.

Aaron

[Bee4Me]

Most air DA's pads are removable with the wrench for it. Just screws on with a right hand thread (normal) stud or the with locking type,just lock it and twist, and you can use a 3",5",6" pad for PSA or Velcro back paper as well. I swap mine out all the time depending on paper or procedure.