2nd Festool Sander....time for a Rotex, but which one??

[dovetailltd]

Well I broke down and bought the ETS125 REQ and must say it is the best sander I’ve ever used.  I was actually enjoying sanding.  THe dust collection was great, I’m using a new Hilti dust extractor and it works very well with the ETS.  My first project was 3 cutting boards.  After the final glue up of my boards I wanted to see if the ETS could remove material instead of the planer.  Unfortunately, it could not remove the maple, walnut wood to make the board even.  I’m sure the Rotex would be able to do this.  What Rotex should I get?  I’m a hobbyist and make gifts and things.  Not a lot of refinishing but if I have the RO I may get more into it.  I’m thinking the RO125 but do you think the RO90 would be better for me?

 

[rst]

My advice would be the RO125 as you already are using that size sandpaper.  After that selection i would recommend the DTS or the 90.

 

[Mario Turcot]

[member=68010]dovetailltd[/member] Welcome to the FOG!

I have the ETS EC 125 and RO 90 combo. I start with the ETS without knowing much about Festool sanders. I discovered quickly that the ETS is a finishing sander and that I would also need a more aggressive sander. I opted for the RO 90 for it's versatility, semi-light, Delta pad etc...

Here my rational about different paper size;

I use the RO 90 with 40 to 120 grit and the ETS with 120 and + grit. To me size of the sander pad/paper is a consideration only if you plan to use the same grit on both machine. If not, it do not matter. Now comes how are you going to store the paper. If you are a pack rat it opens a variety of new projects to get your storage organized  [big grin]

If I'm ever going to need a third sander it will be the ETS EC 150/5 and again I'm at a different paper size  [scared]

Mario

 

[AlexThePalex]

Just get the 150, it's the best one.

 

[nvalinski]

Second the 150. For stripping down/leveling a large surface, it can't be beat. The 90 looks great for smaller work, like live edges or paint stripping windows or something. I don't think I'd ever consider buying the 125, except if I was heavily invested in 125 mm sandpaper and really didn't want to add another size.

 

[Cheese]

You already own the 125mm paper, so why not just go with the 125 Rotex?

Besides, the RO 90 is a little small for what your present needs are. I have both of them but use the 125 most of the time.

 

[JFelchlin]

If you are going to be sanding large tables and doors, I’d definitely go with the 150.
I’m usually a “bigger is better” thinker. But, I’m a hobbyist.
I make furniture, cabinets, and smaller items (like your cutting boards) -
So... Long ago, I went with the RO-125 FEQ-Plus. It can be pretty “aggressive”.
It’s a good size - And can cover a lot of surface area - Including the occasional table or door. But, it’s not as heavy as the 150.
And... you’re already “into” the 125 size paper.

Going forward, I’d think about adding the DTS 400 REQ-Plus. “A great all around sander, the DTS 400 is designed for fine sanding small, angular surfaces that are difficult to reach. With a short 5/64" (2 mm) stroke, this sander gives you a super-fine finished surface.”

 

[leakyroof]

While it's tempting to stick with the same size disc/abrasives for your next sander, don't let that be your only buying factor for your next sander. I too stuck to 'same size theory' to save getting yet another different abrasive style from Festool in yet another Sander type,  for a good few years. Until I realized I was limiting myself with that sole factor.
So, buy the sander you NEED, versus just trying to keep in a certain abrasive size.  If the Rotex 125 is your best choice, so be it.
If you need the  extra disc size of the 150mm Rotex or one of the ETS 150/5 sanders, don't be afraid to add to your collection. Money is ALWAYS a factor, I get that....l [smile]

 

[lshah72414]

My first sander was a RO 90. Very nice sander, but in my opinion limited in its function. If not careful will put "waves" in your wood.
I now own ETS EC 150 3mm and RO 150 . I find myself grabbing for the RO 150 most of the time due to size and efficiency.
On small stuff I use the RO 90.
I am a hobbyist.
Good luck on your choice.

 

[Master Carpenter]

If your really set on getting a rotex for levelling, get the 150. Bigger surface makes it easier to get flat results.

Though if you just want to level out glue-ups, a belt sander will get the job done faster and flatter than the rotary sanders, especially if you use a 4" wide model. There will be a lot of dust, I try to use mine outside and wear a dust mask.

 

[sancho57]

At the others are correct in my mind getting the RO150. But since you have the 125 you can either get the 125 bc you have the paper etc for itor sell it and get the 150 and wait for the ES150/3 to come on sale as a recon. that way you share the same paper. Its much more cost effective that way.

 

[grobkuschelig]

RO 150 all the way!

Especially, if you already have a 125. The added surface area really helps on large surfaces.

 

[dovetailltd]

Thanks everyone.  Based on the replies and reasoning behind them I think I will go with the RO125 since I have that paper size.  If I end up feeling like I need the larger size I will just sell them both and get the 150 ECS and RO.  I spent $200 on abrasives when I bought the ECS 125 so I definitely have a good amount of paper...to use and invested. 
Thanks!

 

[Jmacpherson]

Lots of great advice on the FOG and above for you regarding sanders, received a lot here myself.
Glad you were able to make a decision.

Your ETS will give you a 2mm stroke, nice for finish work and the RO-125 has 4mm for removal so you have 2 different stroke rates in your arsenal now.
That is why some people recommended that if you change your mind and go the 150 route to get the RO-150 + ETS-150/3 EC due to the 5mm/3mm stroke rate combo you end up. 5mm for removal and 3mm for finishing.

 

[Gregor]

Thanks everyone.  Based on the replies and reasoning behind them I think I will go with the RO125 since I have that paper size.

150mm pads are available for the ETS. So you could get a ROTEX 150 and when the 125mm paper runs out: sell the 125mm pad and put a 150mm one on the ETS.

 

[sancho57]

[member=68010]dovetailltd[/member]

theres a guy selling a RO125 in the classifieds here

 

[dovetailltd]

Thanks everyone.  Based on the replies and reasoning behind them I think I will go with the RO125 since I have that paper size.

150mm pads are available for the ETS. So you could get a ROTEX 150 and when the 125mm paper runs out: sell the 125mm pad and put a 150mm one on the ETS.

thanks for the heads up.  Looking at the projects that I’ve completed and those I plan to do in the future I think the 125 will do me well for as long timer to come. 

 

[dovetailltd]

[member=68010]dovetailltd[/member]

theres a guy selling a RO125 in the classifieds here

checking it out.....