RS2 - how do the pads behave. Can it sand 1-1/2" wide rails and stiles flat

[fshanno]

Looks like there are three pads available. 

The 483679 hook loop is the standard pad that comes on a new sander, correct?

Then there are two other pads, the 485647 and the 485648.  I suppose these are for use with non-hook loop.  Are these required when using non-hook paper clamped on?

Will the RS 2 round or crown boards that it overhangs?  Such as narrow rails and stiles?  Or can you keep them flat?  I can't keep things flat with my ETS 150 even with the hard backer pad.  So I have to use my RTS.  The little RTS is fabulous for final machine sanding but it's pretty slow trying to clean up the joints on a face frame. 

 

[MrToolJunkie]

yes...flat is the name of the game with this sander. I use it on all parts and get perfect results.

 

[Administrator_JSVN]

The RS2 does not have an optional hard pad. I would be concerned about rounding over the corners on such a thin piece. Granted I've only ever run the RS2 on sheet goods. Got my dad one for that bug don't have one myself.

 

[Scott B.]

This would definitely be a case of be sure to run the sander on items larger than the sander.

 

[fshanno]

Okay I brought it home today.

Here's the executive summary of my initial experience....

Oh sweet mystery of life at last I've found you!

And I can confirm ScotF's reply.  It does sand 1 1/2" rails and stiles flat.  With a try square I get just a small hint of light at the extremities.  Negligible.  More than adequate flatness for this application.  Pretty big deal for me.

I'm sure I'll mostly use hook loop.  But if I want to use 3M and cut a sheet do I need one of those other pads?  Or can I attach 3M paper right over the standard hook loop backer pad? 

 

[MrToolJunkie]

Okay I brought it home today.

Here's the executive summary of my initial experience....

Oh sweet mystery of life at last I've found you!

And I can confirm ScotF's reply.  It does sand 1 1/2" rails and stiles flat.  With a try square I get just a small hint of light at the extremities.  Negligible.  More than adequate flatness for this application.  Pretty big deal for me.

I'm sure I'll mostly use hook loop.  But if I want to use 3M and cut a sheet do I need one of those other pads?  Or can I attach 3M paper right over the standard hook loop backer pad? 

[thumbs up] [thumbs up]

You need the little hole punch. I only use the Festool papers and have been more than happy with them and see no need to get anything else unless I was out of stock and needed something in a pinch. Not sure if you need the other pad or not. I think that every cabinet/furniture maker should have a 1/2 sheet orbital in their arsenal - it is a must have for me. This and the DT400 could really see me through all of my sanding needs, I think...some applications might take longer, but the end result finish is worth it. Wait until you apply finish to your surface - that is where the real proof comes into play. No little peaks and valleys that you can get with a random orbit sander - even if you are careful I find it hard to get a perfectly flat and smooth surface. With the RS2 - this is not an issue - it is almost idiot proof.

 

[AlexThePalex]

I'm sure I'll mostly use hook loop.  But if I want to use 3M and cut a sheet do I need one of those other pads?  Or can I attach 3M paper right over the standard hook loop backer pad? 

It is not good to attach it right over the hook & loop pad. This can damage the hooks on the pad. What you can do is leave a hook & loop sheet on and then put the 3M sheet over it.

 

[FOGNewbie]

Hello fshanno, I too am new to the RS2. So new, I've yet to fire it up. Well that and a long string of 12 plus hour work days. Doesn't my boss know I have Festool tools I need to use? [laughing] Anyway, the local dealer I bought the sander from recommended the Hole punch(481523) and  Pad 485647 If I want to use full sheet/ non Festool paper. I got both in addition to some Festool paper to fit the RS2. I have a fair amount of full sheet sandpaper, so I think this will help me so that I can save the Festool paper for finishing the finish sanding.

It was stated in another post already, that you will want to use the 485647 and the hole punch. Not sure about the 485648 pad.