Hi folks,
I've been in lurk mode a while, waiting for the dust to settle from the
various trolls, etc.
But once again I need to dip from the fountain of knowledge here in "The
Wreck".
I have been using a Craftsman 4"x24" belt sander (and putting up with the
constant need to re-adjust the tracking) for taking the top dirt encrusted
layer of rough sawn lumber that has more than it's share of grime before
sending it through jointer/planer.
The platen has finally worn out, and I don't want to use it any longer. It's
probably 18-20 years old, anyway.
I read through a long list at Google on posts relevant to "which should I
buy" and as usual came away confused.
Bosch and Porter-Cable held the lead (The 405 is nice, but out of my league,
Lew).
Bosch has a frame and other goodies and the PC is accessory shy.
Bosch had at least one negative post that claimed it had to be repaired a
number of times (could this be the exception to the rule?).
AEG and others are too expensive and I'm not likely to run one for hours on
end. I won't be grinding fiberglass and it is unlikely that I'll use it on
metal, ever!
Variable speed seems to be in the "better to have it and not need it than
need it and not have it" class, any real world additions?
I look at 4x24 because it is unlikely I'd need to hold the big boy up for
vertical or overhead work, and I have a large box of belts that size in many
grits. And as was stated many times, the bigger footprint makes for a more
stable "ride".
Input welcome, PLEASE.
Tom