Replies

1. 
   EricAnderson | May 19, 2005 10:08pm | #1

   I have the problem too.  I wrap the paper from the left edge to the right edge.  Someone suggested that I wrap it right to left.  It may be easier to work with by finishing the wrap on the left side since it is more open and easier to reach on that side.  Have you tried that?  I have not changed the paper since it was suggested to me, so I don't know how it will be in practice.

   I think that the velcro approach has its own set of problems.  I have one of the Klingspor drum sanders with velcro attachment.  It works OK, but the one end that faces the direction of rotation tends to pop up.  Also, the sanding accuracy and flatness may suffer since you are working with a surface that has about 0.120 of give to it.  I have one of those inexpensive digital calipers from Harbor Freight on my Proformax and I am accurate to better than 0.01 in using that.

2. 
   jazzdogg | May 21, 2005 07:25pm | #2

   Have to re-tension the abrasive periodically after installing new product; it normally stretches a bit, especiallywhen new. It is important to verify the pinch mechanism that captures the end of the strip is functioning properly - periodic inspection can help.

   As you know, if you don't re-tension the abrasive following installation, it tends to bunch up, creating a section that's double thickness, which will burn the wood.

   Good luck,

   -Jazzdogg-

   Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, you're right.

3. 
   hammer1 | May 22, 2005 06:48pm | #3

   I hate Performax sanders. My older model Supermax only had the tension spring on the right. Actually, the tension spring was not available when I bought the sander. In complaining to the service department about paper bunching, they said they had just developed the spring and I could buy one for a ridiculous amount. They should have sent me one after paying almost $4000 for their useless machine.

   I often found that I had to check the belt after running one piece. You have to cut the taper just right on the end and push up the clip so that there is tension on it. They have improved the stretch you get in their paper. Using other brands of paper may increase stretching and loading.

   Some manufacturers use felt backed paper. I tried wrapping my drum with some drafting table mat. It didn't help. Hook and loop wasn't available at the time. If I was able to deal with the belt tension problems, I would have loading problems and a hot drum. Even when the machine successfully sanded a piece there would be the inevitable striations on the surface that needed lots more work. I got rid of mine before I took a hammer to it or hurt myself tripping over the legs. I just don't like brown racing stripes on my work or big divots in the center.

   Beat it to fit / Paint it to match