Random Orbit Sander -not so random

Get a new one. It is not worth the stress.

-- "Of all the things I have lost in life, I miss my mind the most."

try letting the sander do the work without any downward pressure on your part (that’s how they are supposed to work…Dewalt/PC machines will not work at all with pressure…your hand is only used to guide even though the top of the old PC made it look like a handgrip).

5 years old on a Crapsman probably says you got 4 years more out of it than most so consider yourself lucky. as noted above you could try to repair but in most cases the parts will cost more than a new one (I have an old Milw and 2 PC’s that run good but didn’t make sense to repair).

You said the magic word “Craftsman” Not worth the effort. After buying and using 8 different ROS’s I found this this guy and it’s great.
http://www.amazon.com/Milwaukee-6021-21-Random-Sander-collection/dp/B0012RWCF6

Sometimes you can find them refurbished for $20-$40 less.

-- W James Brokenbourgh Custom furniture maker http://artisticwoodstudio.com/

If you get a new one stay clear of the Ridgid. I have a 5” and a 6” and both need new pads, the 6” broke the rubber pad under the velcro pad too. POS>

-- Failure does not stop me, it makes me try harder..... because I'm crazy.

I’m with Jim, I’m going to have to get me one of them Milwaukee ROS. I have a dewalt 5” so should I get a 6” Jim?

-- Failure does not stop me, it makes me try harder..... because I'm crazy.

Just found a reconditioned one for less.

http://www.cpomilwaukee.com/factory-reconditioned-milwaukee-6021-81-5-in-random-orbit-palm-sander/milr6021-81,default,pd.html?start=2&cgid=milwaukee-random-orbit-sanders

-- W James Brokenbourgh Custom furniture maker http://artisticwoodstudio.com/

I have the Milwaukee 5” ROS and love it. It has been very dependable and hasn’t given me any trouble. I had to replace the pad once (my fault) but that was only $6 from the Milwaukee store.

-- "hold fast to that which is good"

bosch and Dewalt make good 5” ROS’s

-- Willie, Washington "If You Choose Not To Decide, You Still Have Made a Choice" - Rush

Home Depot has them brand new for $59

http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=100609940&storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10053&PID=1796839&cm_mmc=CJ%2d%5f%2d1796839%2d%5f%2d10368321&SID=26570103&AID=10368321&cj=true

-- ok, is it cut once measure twice, cut twice measure once???? I know....I'll just keep cutting until it's long enough.

I prefer the 5” Russ
Good price Bladedust, Thanks

-- W James Brokenbourgh Custom furniture maker http://artisticwoodstudio.com/

I bought mine at HD and they even accepted an HF 20% off coupon. So I’d definitely give that a try.

-- "hold fast to that which is good"

wow thanks for all the info everyone. I think I will try the Milwaukee.

I hope you like yours as well as I like mine.

-- W James Brokenbourgh Custom furniture maker http://artisticwoodstudio.com/

Jee wizz, Jim…am I gonna have to go out and get a Milwaukee ROS now? I just got the new Bosch with the little Hepa on the back and I love it. Tool freak that I am, I just know I will have a Milwaukee in my hand next time I am out looking around. It’s hopeless…

-- Paul, Tennessee, http://www.tsunamiguitars.com

Hey Paul why do you think I own 8 ROS ? :)) Could I be a tool freak too? LOL

-- W James Brokenbourgh Custom furniture maker http://artisticwoodstudio.com/