Rotex 90 will not rotate in a random orbital sander mode

[DANIELKARL]

I bought the rotex 90 in order to refinished some cabinet face frames several years ago and really do not use it all that much. Lately I have been sanding down door jams and I cannot seem to make it rotate in random orbit mode. I have tried adjusting the vacuum down all the way, I have tried holding it perfectly level, but the pad just oscillates and does not really rotate. Is this a common problem on these little sanders? Can anything be done to fix it?

 

[tjbnwi]

The rotation is very slow. Can you shoot a video and link it so we can see the issue?

Tom

 

[AlexThePalex]

In random orbit the rotation is slow but should be clearly visible. The rotation can be slowed down more though if there is friction between the pad and the tool shell. First thing I would check is take he pad off and see if there is some damage. Also check the sander where the pad is attached and check for dents, debris or things that are not properly aligned.

If you don't find anything yourself, take the sander to your dealer. Perhaps they can make it run with another spare pad and see if the problem still persists. If that doesn't help it is time to call Festool service.

 

[jonny round boy]

Are you certain it's not in the delta sanding mode?

Apologies if that seems like an obvious question!

 

[DANIELKARL]

1. I have checked the sanding pad and it is without a blemish.
2. Downloading a video of me sanding is a little like tweeting my breakfast menu, too boring to be endured
3. I have never used it in Delta mode as I have a Festool DX 90 3E dedicated Delta sander so old that it has its own power cord. This sander is one of my very favorite Festool pieces. Because it works better than can reasonably be expected.
4. When I took off the pad however to inspect for damage it does seem that there is an unacceptable amount of sawdust in the eccentric I will try cleaning it out carefully and see if that helps.
Thanks Daniel Karl

 

[AlexThePalex]

4. When I took off the pad however to inspect for damage it does seem that there is an unacceptable amount of sawdust in the eccentric I will try cleaning it out carefully and see if that helps.

Might be the reason, a lot of gunk can case some serious friction.

 

[tbellemare]

If you hold it with the pad in air and in random orbital mode, you can grab the pad to stop it from rotating. Doing that will make it obvious whether or not it is actually rotating.

Like Alex said, too much debris can possibly cause the same thing.

Tom