Replies

1. 
   CharlieP | Dec 24, 2003 05:11pm | #1

   I use mostly 150 and 220 on my 16-32

   A planer is generally better for the wood removal that the lower grits can do, but I would use the Performax to avoid tear out in highly figured wood.

   Even using the 220, there will normally be some sanding marks, so I have to finish with a ROS anyway.  Since the 220 is slow and can cause burning in cherry and other sensitive woods, I sometimes stop at 150.

   150 is great for bringing the wood to a very smooth, precise final thickness.  I got the Performax because of table tops and other wide surfaces, but find I use it for almost everything.

   I use an ammeter with the Performax.  If the current gets too high, I slow down the feed, or can speed it up (reducing the chance of a burn) if the current is below the max.  My old clamp on ammeter is so helpful with the performax that it should be a standard part of the system. 

   The owner's manual suggests adjusting for a slightly wider opening on the "open" end of the drum when doing wide "two pass" sanding (wider than 22 inches in your case).  I leave mine that way most of the time, so smaller boards are sanded on the first side on the left side of the table, then flipped and sanded on the second side on the right side of the feed table, without needing to adjust height between sides of the board. 

   Note that you can wash the sanding belts in Simple Green, rinse and dry, and get tremendous life from the belts.