Wet sanding with electric sander

[pescaloco]

Ok before you fry me for water and electricity bit, no pun intended.

I need a way to wetsand large areas of gelcoat where it would not be be possible to have a high volume compressed air source.

I used a orbital paml sander and water spray bottle, the $70.00 sander made it through 1/2 of a 43 footer. I don't mind spending some more money for a quality tool intended for the purpose, but it would have to last ofcourse.

Do you guys know of an electric sander/polisher that would be sutible for 600-800-1200 grit wet sanding on gelcoat.

Thanks much

[Dan H]

I was doing the same thing. The bearing on the bottom died because the sander I was using was a dust collector type. When the bearing went, it melted the plate. The bearing got wet. I used a dewalt 1/4 sheet palm sander.
I bought two new plates and two new bearings. I sealed the vacuum channels on one plate to use for wet sanding and the other for sanding when I want the vacuum.
I use a spray bottle, rubber boots, and a GFI extension cord.
I haven't tried it since I repaired it, but I don't know why it won't work. It worked before it broke.

[steele m.a.]

Try : NorthernTool.com

[pescaloco]

thanks for the replies, will check Northern Tool

You know mine is the dust collector type also, and water definetly caused the bearing to fail.