I currently have the RO 150 E. I would upgrade to the new model if you can tell me the new model has a lower vibration level than my current one. I use it enough that it is causing my hands to go numb. The old unit is serviced regularly so there is no mechanical issues here.
RO 150 FEQ
- Thread starter Alphasud
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AlexThePalex
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The new type also has plenty of vibrations. The motor is 750 watt now instead of 500 watt, a 50% increase. But personally, I have never had any problems with numb hands. After using the thing for 2 hours straight my hands do feel a little weird, but I think it's more due to tiredness than numbness.
I don't have that much experience with the older type, so it's difficult to compare for me, but I think the new type might have been designed a lot better, ergonomically speaking.
I don't have that much experience with the older type, so it's difficult to compare for me, but I think the new type might have been designed a lot better, ergonomically speaking.
I haven't used the new rotex, but have the same one as you. Maybe try not holding it so tightly.
My preferred method is to have the hose coming from above the sander, either over your shoulder or boom arm, to counteract the unbalance. Then hold around the dc inlet with one hand, and the other hand on on top of the sander.
I'd say it is less holding, more of letting it sit flat and guiding it. The caveat is that this is in random orbit mode, in rotex mode you will have to hold on tight.
My preferred method is to have the hose coming from above the sander, either over your shoulder or boom arm, to counteract the unbalance. Then hold around the dc inlet with one hand, and the other hand on on top of the sander.
I'd say it is less holding, more of letting it sit flat and guiding it. The caveat is that this is in random orbit mode, in rotex mode you will have to hold on tight.
Kev
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I think it's "ok" but the ETS150 is very smooth. Could it be an option to get an ETS150/x and keep your RO150 for more aggressive work?
(if you already have one ... ignore me)
This may be unrelated ... somebody smarter will know ... but I'd consider wearing gel pad gloves, good ones significantly reduce numbness cycling, could do you a good turn sanding (and probably no more than $25 to find out).
(if you already have one ... ignore me)
This may be unrelated ... somebody smarter will know ... but I'd consider wearing gel pad gloves, good ones significantly reduce numbness cycling, could do you a good turn sanding (and probably no more than $25 to find out).
Brice Burrell
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I don't know the answer to your question but I know a real good way for you to find out. Buy the newer RO150 and try it out for the 30 days. If it isn't any better than the old one, return it.
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Yeah, like Brice said, the 30 day money back guarantee would let you answer the question for yourself without any risk. I actually bought a RO 150 E but gave it to my dad, so I've never even used it. So, I don't have a point of reference to compare it to the RO 150 FEQ. Even so, my opinions might be perceived as biased. I have sanded for hours at a time with my 150 FEQ and didn't feel numb afterwards.
woodwrights_corner
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Alphasud,
What kind of sanding are you doing for hours at a time? Are you sculpting rough wood or sanding flat sheets? And, what grits of paper are you using? Also, how long have you used the RO 150E? Could it have been used to the point that the excess vibration is caused by worn bearings? Also, how many years have you been in the trade and does this happen when you use other hand held power tools?
I agree with the other gentleman that you may just be holding on too tight and pressing too hard as many do. Take their advice and lighten up, try a glove or both.
Do your hands get numb after any other activities, for example, while driving a vehicle?
What kind of sanding are you doing for hours at a time? Are you sculpting rough wood or sanding flat sheets? And, what grits of paper are you using? Also, how long have you used the RO 150E? Could it have been used to the point that the excess vibration is caused by worn bearings? Also, how many years have you been in the trade and does this happen when you use other hand held power tools?
I agree with the other gentleman that you may just be holding on too tight and pressing too hard as many do. Take their advice and lighten up, try a glove or both.
Do your hands get numb after any other activities, for example, while driving a vehicle?
Thanks for your suggestions. I am restoring a house and have used this sander for just about anything I can! I use grits from 36 all the way to 400. Right now I am completing the kitchen cabinets where the sander has been used primarily for flat panel sanding. I veneer my own panels due to the nature of the wood being used.
I will purchase the anti vibration gloves mentioned as I was unaware of these. I will also be more conscious of the sanding force.
As far as the new sander I don't need 700 watts of power. The power of my old one is more than enough. It's a beast in my book!
I will purchase the anti vibration gloves mentioned as I was unaware of these. I will also be more conscious of the sanding force.
As far as the new sander I don't need 700 watts of power. The power of my old one is more than enough. It's a beast in my book!
