Bottom Sanders

[Dragon Fly]

WHAT IS the best sander for bottom sanding? I have a 28' oday.
orbital? variable speed yes? vac connection?
5inch? 6 inch? square?
I need to buy one soon... please reply.
I want to take years of build-up down to a even level,
not necessarily down to the gelcoat.
help & thanks
dragon fly

 

[geehaw]

I use a RO dewalt palm sander. It comes with a collector on the end that when removed allows connection of vacuum. I wouldn't do it with out one that can be connected to vacuum.

 

[Brian S]

I've heard 1/4 sheet sanders are good, because it's easy to swap out paper, and cheaper than hook and loop paper for an orbital. Also, 1/4 sheet sanders are a nice palm size.

Brian

 

[BarryL]

Hey,

I recommend a real cheap RO hand sander. I used to use good ones (porter, etc.) and they all die after a few years because the dust kills the bearings. Now I use a cheapy Harbor Freight 5" and just throw it away when it makes noise.

You definitely want a vac attachment. Use 60 grit paper until most of the paint is gone, then a final with 80 grit. Rinse and you're ready for new paint.

It's not a fun project to do, but it's necessary.

Good luck,
Barry

 

[RECESS]

I used a Ryobi palm sander with a vacuum attachment.

 

[Dragon Fly]

thanks guys,
I bought a cheap orbital sander.. & already own a 1/4 palm sander, so i'm good to go either way. This time next month,.. I'll know a lot more about this necessary but tedious chore.
thanks
dragon fly.