Belt sander

[DTuck]

I'm looking to buy a good portable belt sander, will not be used everyday. I do however want something that will last quite a long time and not have to worry about it taking a dump in the middle of a project without breaking the bank. Anything good within the $120-$150 range or should I wait for a sale? Thanks in advance.

 

[Empty Pockets]

I have a 3 X 21 Porter Cable Model 352. The new model is 352VS.

This sander has served me well for over 30 years

 

[The Cobbler]

I have a 3x21 Makita , model unknown right now.
I have used and abused it for over 30 yrs

 

[dnschmidt]

Porter Cable 352VS. Belt sanders are one tool you can't cheap out on as belt tracking is critical. This particular model has withstood the test of time.

 

[finn]

I have a 3 X 21 Porter Cable Model 352. The new model is 352VS.

This sander has served me well for over 30 years

Same here, although I'm not sure of the PC model number.

It's used sporadically, but is super reliable for the last thirty or so years.

 

[DTuck]

Looks like I'll be going with a PC then. I didn't know if their new production was as good as their old stuff. Glad to hear it is though.

 

[ScottsGT]

I'm going to order a Triton. Why? It's versatile where I can place it upside down and use it as a stationary sander.
Here's an Amazon link, but I have found it cheaper elsewhere.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00519UWM6/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[exmaxima1]

I'm going to order a Triton. Why? It's versatile where I can place it upside down and use it as a stationary sander.
Here's an Amazon link, but I have found it cheaper elsewhere.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00519UWM6/?tag=atomicindus08-20

Seems odd that it includes a "3 x 24 inch belt"

 

[ScottsGT]

Probably copy/paste from another similar ad. I've seen this before on Amazon.

 

[exmaxima1]

Check out the reviews of the Triton. Apparently it has some mechanical issues and replacement parts are unobtainable in the US.

 

[ScottsGT]

Check out the reviews of the Triton. Apparently it has some mechanical issues and replacement parts are unobtainable in the US.

Thanks for bringing this to my attention. I had read before, but it didn't sink in. Now that I have read it, I went digging. Apparently they did an upgrade or change. going to the spare parts website, they list a pre 2015 model with a SN range, and a post 2015 model with a SN range. I noticed the bad reviews were from 2015 or earlier.
Here's a link to the later model parts.

http://www.toolsparesonline.com/category/1183-2015-model-serial-no-15430001-onwards.aspx

the one review with the nut that stripped, I think this is what he was looking for:
http://www.toolsparesonline.com/products/7024-big-gear-set.aspx


Sure, not every part is available here. But does everyone make every part available for all of their products? Seriously, I have no idea. I do remember Craftsman was really good about parts for repairs. It's the one thing I'll miss about Sears going away.

 

[Coach James]

Bought this back in 2011 or 2012. It was reconditioned so I saved a few bucks. Looked brand new/unused when I opened it. Used it many times and no problems.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000040JNV/?tag=atomicindus08-20


Coach