Use of variable speed on ROS

drl · Post by **drl** » Wed Dec 14, 2011 12:15 pm

Can someone explain the purpose of variable speed on a random ordit sander? I have a Ridgid ROS with this feature but don't have a clue when I should be using a lower or higher speed. I can understand variable speed when using the sanding disk on the SS where control of burning could be a factor. I need enlightenment.
Regards,
Dwight

terrydowning · Post by **terrydowning** » Wed Dec 14, 2011 1:19 pm

Without knowing the specific model, it's hard to tell.
I have used a Porter Cable ROS with Variable speed. There were instructions on which speed to use for different grits and surface hardness.

I.E Hard Wood Coarse grit was a higher recommended setting than soft wood fine grit.

Highest speed was recommended for "Paint Removal"
Slowest speed for polishing (Like Car Paint and other clear coated surfaces)

Try to find the owner's manual for your specific model.

Ed in Tampa · Post by **Ed in Tampa** » Wed Dec 14, 2011 6:12 pm

variable speed on a ROS? Create a selling point.

I know I'm cynical but I have two that has set speed and I can't think of where I would need a slower or faster speed.

I often needed to change the paper, change the grit, change my pressure and change hands but I never thought of changing speed.

drl · Post by **drl** » Thu Dec 15, 2011 11:27 am

The ROS in question is a Ridgid R2600. I checked the on-line manual and it just mentions the variable speed but not when to use it for what. I can see where faster is probably more aggressive as suggested in Terry's post. And yes I leave it at one setting. Thought I might have been missing out on something.
Regards,
Dwight

terrydowning · Post by **terrydowning** » Thu Dec 15, 2011 12:06 pm

The 0ne I borrow from a friend is PC 74xx series. I can't remember if it's a 7424 or a 7436, they are both similar and are very popular in the auto detailing world. They look almost like hand held grinders, have a screw in handle and are very comfortable to work with. The middle speed with a wax applicator makes short work of applying liquid waxes to painted surfaces, change the bonnet and bump the speed and the wax comes right off. Change bonnet to a polishing bonnet and drop the speed to slow and using the polish of your choice and enjoy the mirror shine. The kit my friend has comes with interchangeable heads for sanding discs or bonnets and supports dust collection in sanding mode. It really is a very nice tool. I've used it a few times on our band trailers 2 20' box trailers and 1 24' box trailer. It made cleaning up those trailers much easier. Based on it's performance in polishing painted surfaces, I would not hesitate to use it in sanding mode. The VS makes a huge difference on the polishing side.

Someday when the budget allows I may just get one. I see them range in price around $100 plus or minus depending on retailer, sales and accessories included.