Frequently Asked Questions
These sander are designed for sanding all types of materials i.e. metals, wood, stone, plastics, etc. using abrasive designed for this purpose. Do not use these sanders for any other purpose than that specified without consulting the manufacturer or the manufacturer's authorized supplier.
Do not use back-up pads that have a working speed less than 12,000 RPM free speed.
What I should know before using the sander
What kind of air supply is required for these sanders?
How do I know what size pad I should be using?
Can I use a 5" back-up pad on a 6 inch sander or vice versa?
How can I tell the difference between the 3/32" and the 3/16" orbits in the models?
Why have two different orbits of 3/16" (5mm) and 3/32" (2.5mm)?
How do I distinguish between 10,000 and 12,000 RPM Sanders?
Why does it seem as if my sander is operating at such a low power?
What should I do when the sander starts to make unusual sounds and vibration?
Where can I find the part listing for these sanders?
Where can I send my AirVANTAGE sander for repairs?
How can I convert my AirVANTAGE sander from a non-vacuum model to a central-vacuum model?
What I should know before using the sander
Always wear safety goggles to protect your eyes
Oil daily for superior performance
Wear face shield whenever tool is in operation.
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What kind of air supply is required for these sanders?
Only test and operate our sanders at 90 PSI/6.1 BAR maximum unless the tool is marked otherwise. Use recommended airline filters, regulators and lubricators.
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How do I know what size back-up pad I should use?
The size of the pads are marked on the bottom of the sander when the pad has been removed. The number is engraved on the shaft balancer.
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Can I use a 5" back-up pad on a 6 inch sander or vice versa?
No! The AirVANTAGE sanders are all precisely balanced to take only a certain size pad. If it is a 5" machine, it should always and only use a 5" backup pad. This rule applies across the board for all AirVANTAGE Random Orbital Sanders.
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How can I tell the difference between the 3/32" and the 3/16" orbits in the models?
Visually, you can differentiate between the sanders by the throttle plate finish.
Anodized throttle plate: 3/32" orbit
Chrome throttle plate: 3/16" orbit
You can also distinguish between the two by looking under the sander at the Shaft Balancer.
click to enlarge image
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Why have two different orbits of 3/16" (5mm) and 3/32" (2.5mm)?
3/16" orbit gives a more aggressive cut for removing material such as bondo. More commonly used by the body shop repairs. 3/32" is for automotive painting application where fine sanding is needed or for applications where 3/16" orbit is found to be too aggressive. 3/32" orbit is commonly used in the furniture industry for fine sanding on dark stained finishes.
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How do I distinguish between 10,000 and 12,000 RPM Sanders?
The RPM rating is engraved under the AirVANTAGE logo on the throttle plate.
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Why does it seem as if my sander is operating at such a low power?
Check if the speed control located under the air inlet is at the minimum or maximum air flow.
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What should I do when the sander starts to make unusual sounds and vibration?
Check if you have the right size pad installed on your AirVANTAGE sander. Please check the FAQ to find out which pad is required for your sander.
The back-up pad might be worn, or deteriorated from over use. If material is nicked off of the pad, that will throw the sander off balance and cause unusual vibration.
If the sander has the correct size pad installed and is in good condition, you may want to take the AirVANTAGE sander in for service.
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Where can I find the part listing for these sanders?
Random Orbital Part Listing and Diagram
3.75" x 7" Inch Orbital Part Listing and Diagram
3" x 4" Inch Orbital Part Listing and Diagram
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Where can I send my AirVANTAGE sander for repairs?
If your sander ever needs repairs, you can send it to the address below with freight prepaid for repair, along with a brief description the issues you have with the sander.
Attn: AirVANTAGE Repair Service
2112 North Lee Avenue
South El Monte, CA 91733
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How can I convert my AirVANTAGE sander from a non-vacuum model to a central-vacuum model?
The conversion can be easily done by installing a few parts on the non vacuum model sander.
The following is a list of parts you would need for the conversion. (You will need one of each)
AVC0012 5/6in SuperVac Shroud
AVA0047 Washer
AVA0046 Screw
AVA0048 Nut
AVA0205 SuperVac CV 3/4 in. / 19mm SWIVEL EXHAUST ASSEMBLY
- OR -
AVA0099 SuperVac CV 1 in. / 28mm SWIVEL EXHAUST ASSEMBLY
Note: Please use the appropiate backup pads after the conversion.
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