Dewalt Orbital Sander?

[billzabub]

I have a Dewalt 421 Orbital Sander:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00002232Z/104-5582983-0856738?v=glance&n=228013

I was wondering if this would be acceptable to use in the colorsanding of a (somewhat - 2 months) fresh clear (DC4000 - 2 coats). I've been looking at the dynabrade and airvantage pieces, but I would need to find a suitable air source to use either of those sanders (only have a hobbyist sized unit at home). The Dewalt has 3/32 travel pattern, but has a 5" pad. Now, I'm a firm believer in "right tools for the right jobs" and I wanted some feedback from you guys, as you are the kings and I am merely a peasant.:p Thanks in advance guys - I've lurked for months and have befriended the search tab for most of my inquiries, but I didn't come up with anything conclusive on this.

Bill

[Roch_Greg]

I feel your pain dude, and until I move and restricted also in air supply. So let all insufficient air supply peasant's unite :)

About a year ago I purchased a Porter Cable RO Polisher/Sander (http://www.porter-cable.com/index.asp?e=547&p=2806) based on some reviews on other forums I hang out on (Detailing and Audi Cars). They all love it cause they can machine polish and not have to spend the cash on a Rotary Polisher and deal with the mistakes that can often happen. I already had a Dewalt Rotary Polisher and never could get the hang of this thing so it sat in the tool chest (aside from using the brush adapter to clean carpets).

I'm doing a re-paint on a plastic part for a neighbor and since I didn't have the air to run my sanders I got that PC out and gave it a try. I was impressed to say the least, for an electric sander it leveled and feather edged very well. Both on the OEM finish and the filler.

There are those who say air tools are the way to go for autobody work, but if you have to use electric, and can match up the equivalent tool, I'd say go for it. Test in an inconspicous spot and if things don't work send it back. Better yet try and locate the tool locally so that will be easier.



Greg

[Dennis N. Schmidt]

The DeWalt palm sander will work fine. My only suggestion is to get the variable speed model so that you can slow it down for finness work. You'll need an interface pad and some 3M finishing film but the only drawback of an electric sander is that they can't be use wet. I use electrics all the time along side my air powered sanders and there's nothing wrong with them

My only complaint is that they can't use Hookit II material since the evil 3M doen't make Hookit II pads for them.