Looking for an opinion, IR experts welcome

[Youngblood77]

Hello all, newb here. 1st let me say it's quite enjoyable reading all the knowledge you guys share with one-another.

On with my question: Is there any difference between the "Edge" series of tools and the regular IR tools? My reason for asking is, is because I've been on the hunt for a quality high speed sander for my box @ work, using them at least every other day. I finally found what I thought was the best deal I could and purchased the IR317A on tooltopia.com

Then, browsing Ebay AFTER making my purchase, I found the IR317G, which is part of the Edge series of tools, and looks to have a nice comfy grip.

Both tools are comparable in price, but is one a better built, more durable tool than the other?

Thanks in advance,
-Eric in WNY

 

[treasureseeker]

I have always used trans fluid for air tool oil and I have the IR air drill with the rubber handle which swelled up after getting some trans fluid on the handle.

 

[dwm]

Internally, it looks like they're exactly the same (same part numbers for all of the guts). The grip from a 317G might fit on a 317A.

317G exploded diagram

 

[Youngblood77]

Internally, it looks like they're exactly the same (same part numbers for all of the guts). The grip from a 317G might fit on a 317A.

317G exploded diagram

Excellent info, thanks for the pdf. I might take the gamble and order a grip for the new 317A. I've since recieved the sander and used it multiple times @ work, and I'm truly impressed. It's quite comparible to the Mac and BluePoint versions my friends have, and it's better looking imho. Weight wise, they're all about the same, but when mine eventually dies, I can justify buying another new one. It's 1/3rd the price of the others, and just as heavy duty. Highly recomended.

 

[W-Cummins]

It's clear from the pictures you posted that the grip will NOT fit with out cutting it out for the speed control knob on the bottom of the hand grip. They may have the same motor guts but the main castings are clearly not the same.

William...

 

[Youngblood77]

It's clear from the pictures you posted that the grip will NOT fit with out cutting it out for the speed control knob on the bottom of the hand grip. They may have the same motor guts but the main castings are clearly not the same.

William...

Very true William, but nothing a steady hand and an Xacto knife can't handle.