Ridgid RO VS sander as buffer?

[Russell]

I have a 5" Ridgid R2600 Random Orbital Variable Speed (Hook and loop) sander that has a speed range from 7,000 to 12,000 rpm. With the proper pads, can this sander work as a buffer/polisher?

My gut feeling is that the speed range of the Ridgid sander is much too high as the Porter Cable buffer has a 2,500-6,000 speed range. Any thoughts?

 

[Patman]

I think that's probably too high as well, because most experts don't even recommend running the Porter Cable at it's full speed of 6, but instead they recommend going no higher than 5. So even at your buffer's slowest setting it would be too fast.

 

[Black Bart]

I agree with Patman it is way too fast. I think a DA turning that fast would have vibration but if you have pads that fit give it a try and see how it works

 

[Russell]

I think I will get a finishing pad and see what happens on my wife's car

first. Remmember this is a random orbital palm type sander.

Uh, what is a DA. I should know and perhaps do, but it slips my mind at this moment?

 

[Patman]

DA stands for Dual Action polisher, which is just another way of saying random orbital.