Using Makita BO4552 "Finishing Sander" as polisher...

C

CRXSi90

New member
I have a pad to addapt to the sander in the works and was wondering how well this will work. My concern is the sander's classification as a "finishing sander". It orbits at 14,000 opm (no joke) , and I'm guessing that these are realitivly small orbits.

here is some info from their Makita's web site.

Specifications

Pad size 4-1/2" x 4"

Abrasive paper size 4-1/2" x 5-1/2"

No load speed 14,000 OPM

AMPS (115V) 1.6

Overall height 5-3/8"

Net weight 2.1 lbs.

Shipping weight 3.0 lbs.

It is fast (14000opm) and has a fairly large motor (about half the size of a Porter Cable - 1.6 amps) for it's 4.5" x 5.5" pads which is more like 4.5" square because ears go into the clips that hold it. Not the easiest setup, but it might work. Do you people think I should give it a try? It is what I have and may be easier that removing my swirls by hand. :eek:

bo4552_l.jpg
 
Such a model would be one of the LAST alternatives I'd look at. Instead, look at models with variable speed (preferably down to PC-like speeds), and a circular velcro pad so you can just stick the foam pads right onto it. A better grip would be nice too.



http://www.autopia.org/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=20472&highlight=alternatives



EDIT: I just read that you own it already. I don't really think it's too suitable since it's so incredibly fast, but if you can get it to work..... :nixweiss
 
I'm pretty determined to give this thing a try, so I'll do that and see how it goes, but I'm not expecting it to be great. I agree that variable speed and velcro pads would be nice. (also better grip and pad selection as you said)



That Makita BO6040 looks pretty good and I think someone like me might be better off with a PC and a rotary, since you can get both for the price. I don't think I'll be doing that, though.



Well, I guess I'll finish up my pad and test it, and I'll post results just in case anyone else wants to see.



Thanks for your help 4DSC
 
"I use the DeWalt and it doesn't go as slow as the PC and I've never had a problem. Even if I set the thing on its max speed and apply wax with it I don't notice any fling off. "

-Intel486

I'm hopeful.
 
Well, I think the DeWalt has a speed range of like 4000-7000 or 8000 OPM, which is still quite a bit slower than 14,000. Good luck though.
 
I'm a little bummed right now. My first attempt at making a pad failed because the material that contacts the car was too loose. Oh well, next time I'll try to improve it. I have three layers...one reinforced peice that clamps into the jaws of the sander, one piece of fleece that goes next, then two layers of some soft terry cloth. Next time, I'll pre-stretch the terry cloth that ended up loose.

I just thought I'd give an update
 
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