Buffer/Polisher . . . sander?

[L5wolvesf]

I have a fiberglass camper I want to repaint which means sanding prep. I have a Ryobi P430 Buffer/Polisher and I’m wondering if I can use that to do the bulk of the flat surfaces. Has anyone successfully used a Buffer/Polisher for that purpose?

Thank you

 

[Strouty]

Is it currently painted or is it gelcoat?

 

[ScottsGT]

If it's orbital and you can find sanding pads, I don't see why not.

 

[L5wolvesf]

Is it currently painted or is it gelcoat?

Painted but faded and cracked.

If it's orbital and you can find sanding pads, I don't see why not.

That's what I was thinking.

 

[dnschmidt]

Good luck with that. This is made to apply wax or polymer sealant. Not to cut into faded paint and restore it to a shine using rubbing compounds. There is a reason rotary polishers are 11-14 amp slow speed versions of angle grinders. THEY NEED TO BE. Buffers are very high powered power tools because buffing really loads their motors. This toy ain't going to cut it.

 

[L5wolvesf]

Any other input or ideas on this?