If you are looking for a sander that will help you remove paints and varnish from auto bodies, then there’s no option better than orbital sanders. They are easy to use, portable, and perfect for this type of work.
However, it’s also important to choose the right product. But how do you make the right pick when there are so many options out there.
Well, that’s why we are here. In this article, we’re going to help you choose one of the best orbital sanders for auto body work. To make your task easier, we’ll also hand out tips for making the purchase in the buying guide section. So, let’s get started.
Best DA Sander for Auto Body Work – [My Top Picks]
- Best Electric: Bosch GET75-6N
- Runner Up Electric: Porter-Cable 97455
- Best Air: 3M 28582
- Runner Up Air: Hutchins 3500
- Best Budget Air: Gedu Air Palm Sander
- Best for Beginners: Ingersoll-Rand 311A
- Best Under $150: Ingersoll-Rand 4151
Best Orbital Sanders for Auto Body Work – (Reviews 2023)
Here are the 8 best DA sanders for auto body work you should know.
1. Bosch GET75-6N – Best Electric DA Sander for Auto Body Work
Key Points:
- Dual-mode design.
- Changeable pad guard.
- Built-in dust port.
- Difficult to handle during turbo mode.
If you are looking for a device that will provide you with the best features, then look no further!
The Bosch GET75-6N is designed with dual-mode, which is the regular random-orbit mode and an additional turbo direct-drive eccentric-orbit mode. And what’s more, you can switch modes without any hitch. The turbo mode is almost five times faster and made for more aggressive stock removal.
Additionally, it incorporates a 6-inch disc and a removable pad guard, which helps to prevent the pad from directly touching the exteriors, as a result, avoids swirl marks.
This thing also comes with a multi-hole pad system that allows flexibility to choose from a wide range of abrasive discs. Furthermore, the device features a built-in dust port that can be connected to a vacuum hose for easier dust removal.
And it has a slim grip design and an auxiliary handle that provides a comfortable grip yet greater control, making this the best electric DA sander for auto body work.
2. PORTER-CABLE 97455 Electric Dual Action Sander
Key Points:
- Compact lightweight design.
- Electronic variable-speed dial.
- Great performance.
- Features a detachable side handle.
- Not very long-lasting.
If you want an electric sander that will allow you to control the speed while you sand and polish, then you can check out this amazing PORTER-CABLE 97455 random sander kit.
Weighing only 12.5 lbs, it has a compact design which makes it a fantastic portable kit that has an electronic dial of 2500-6800 OPM with variable speeds that can be adjusted depending on the task at hand. Moreover it has a stronger 4.5 Amp motor that enables it to produce even better performance.
This electric DA sander is also designed with a detachable side handle that will give you the option to use both your hands according to your convenience.
Furthermore, it comes with a 10 inch dust collection hose and dust collection hood, making the process of sanding less troublesome. This kit was truly designed to make the process of sanding and polishing as simple and easy as possible.
3. 3M 28582 Sander – Best Air Orbital Sander for Auto Body Work
Key Points:
- Industry-grade performance.
- Long-lasting.
- Comfortable and easy to use.
- Does not have a vacuum function.
Some say that the 3M 28582 Sander is the best air orbital sander for auto body work, and we couldn’t agree more!
Great for fine finishing, this was designed with a powerful precision-balanced motor for expert performance, simultaneously the pneumatic power will allow you to use the tool for hours at a stretch.
It was devised with a composite cover that extends to the base to absorb and lessen vibration, while the internal mufflers help decrease noise. These tools, at the same time, help to keep the tools in service by avoiding cracked housing.
This sander also comes with a speed control dial that is located on the side and can be controlled with your thumb! Additionally, it is made with a comfortable rubber grip, curved throttle alloy steel lever, and has built-in wrist support to provide comfortable control.
Furthermore, they added a recessed lever platform to eliminate pressure points on the user’s palm.
4. Gedu Random Orbital Palm Sander – Best Budget Air Auto Body Sander
Key Points:
- Affordable.
- Lightweight.
- Requires only 90 PSI.
- Not vacuum ready.
This air-powered auto body palm sander from Gedu is a budget-friendly option on our list. You can crank it up to 12,000 RPM with only 90 PSI air pressure.
It uses 6-inch sanding pad, which helps you sand more surface areas faster than other 5 inch models on our list. Also, the hook and loop feature allows you to change the pad quickly.
If you’re looking for a perfectly balanced and lightweight air sander for swirl-free finishes at an affordable price, this is the best option for you.
5. Dynabrade 56815 Dynorbital Supreme Pneumatic DA Sander
Key Points:
- Can access differently shaped surfaces.
- Very efficient.
- Powerful.
- Durable and requires minimum maintenance.
- The compressor needs a regulator.
- Noise generated by the airflow.
With the upgraded motor and stronger components, the Dynabrade Dynorbital 56815 Supreme Pneumatic DA Sander, lives up to its name.
This model has a motor that runs at 12,000 RPM, and the rotor operates with five blades, which enables it to produce significantly more working power. The composite rotor is tougher and comes with better oiling qualities, ensuring that the blades last longer.
It comes with an optional vacuum conversation kit to easily convert non-vacuum tool to central or self-generated vacuum tool. Moreover, to provide a longer life and less maintenance, it features a triple-sealed front double row balancer.
Furthermore, this pneumatic tool was designed to be small to be able to use it with just one hand and be agile enough to reach any shaped surfaces!
Additionally, its base was composed of an integrated rubber cover to create a non-slip surface and to insulate your hand from the cold metal.
6. Hutchins 3500 Super III Random Orbital Sander
Key Points:
- Operational control due to low profile.
- Reliable and long-lasting.
- Damage and rust-resistant.
- Not suitable for beginners.
The Hutchins 3500 sander is said to be one of the best sanders created by Hutchins. It was built to be able to do all sorts of jobs but is ideal for finishing and preparing both wood and metallic surfaces. It can easily remove paint and rust and also be used on aluminum surfaces.
This air-powered random orbital sander is a very handy device that can be effortlessly maneuvered as it’s very light in weight. Its lightweight body helps you to be able to work with it for hours without getting tired.
The air consumption at 90 PSI is only 11CFM. It has a very powerful motor that can go more than the speed of 10,000 RPM, however, despite the powerful motor, it is still a really quite sander and has the highest noise release of 80 dB at 90 PSI.
This random orbital sander also comes with speed control and a pressure lock to easily change pads with your thumb instead of having to use any tools!
7. 3M 20317 6-Inch Pneumatic DA Sander
Key Points:
- Lightweight.
- Has a powerful motor.
- Great for multiple applications.
- Long-lasting.
- Requires frequent changes in tools.
The 20317 6 Inch DA Sander by 3M has a formidable 0.28 hp motor, which delivers adequate power for sanding and finishing purposes. As it is a pneumatic power sander, it supplies hours of continual use exceeding the competence of the average electric sanders.
The aluminum body, along with a long-lasting composite cover, reduces the possibility of cracked housings and interruption. The low-profile and sensible design improved the ergonomics and execution of this 3M sanding tool.
This DA sander is said to run smoothly with significantly less vibration and one of the best for polish, glaze, and wax/seal.
Moreover, it will deliver swirl-free finish in high-production industrial environments where dust extraction is not required.
8. Ingersoll-Rand 4151 Ultra Duty Random Orbital Pneumatic Sander
Key Points:
- Lightweight yet durable.
- Vacuum ready.
- Beginner friendly.
- Some users didn’t like the plastic body.
The 4151 ultra duty 6-inch pneumatic random orbital sander by Ingersoll-Rand is one of their superior quality sanders. Its 0.20 hp motor can deliver adequate power for sanding with less vibration that ensures smoother sanding.
At 90 PSI air pressure, it achieves 12,000 RPM that allows you to finish your project faster. As it’s a dual-action sander, cranking it at the highest speed wouldn’t create swirl marks on the surface of the auto body.
This sander is lightweight, weighs less than 2lbs yet durable. You can work with this sander for an extended time. The Ingersoll-Rand 4151 is vacuum ready, which allows you to keep your workshop dust free.
Best DA Orbital Sander for Auto Body Work – [Updated Buying Guide]
Before buying an orbital sander, you’ll need to know the essential factors that you should consider. We covered those vital aspects in the buyer’s guide below.
This guide will help you choose the best DA sander for auto body works.
1. Power Source
There are two types of random orbital sanders available on the market – Electric Powered and Air Powered (Pneumatic). Both models have their pros and cons. Let’s find out which one is suitable for you.
Electric Sander: If you’re a beginner, an electric random orbital sander is the right tool for sanding car’s body. All you need is the sander and electricity. Just plug and sand!
As a beginner, you may not have a reasonable budget for a decent air compressor, or you may not prefer air tools. In that case, an electric sander will serve your purpose.
One thing you need to keep in mind that the vibration of the electric sander is annoying, and you may not feel comfortable using it for a long time.
Air Sander: Air sanders are the most suitable for auto body works. You’ll feel almost no vibration while working with a pneumatic sander. Besides, you’ll have excellent control over the tool so that you can achieve a fantastic result out of it.
We know that every air tool requires an air compressor. The size of your air compressor matters. For an air random orbital sander, you’ll need a large compressor because sanding a whole auto body will require a large amount of compressed air.
So if you already have a decent air compressor, you’re good to go with a pneumatic dual action sander.
2. Variable Speed
While sanding a car’s body, you’ll need to control the speed of your sander when necessary. But if your sander is a single-speed tool, you’ll not be able to control it as you like.
No matter whether you’re a beginner or professional in this job, a variable speed orbital sander will help you achieve an excellent result.
Most of the air sanders come in with variable speed setting, but if you’re looking for an electric orbital sander make sure it has this dual-speed feature.
3. Dust Collection
Sanding is all about producing a crazy amount of dust. When you’re sanding an auto body, you’re making the situation worse.
Because the paint you’re removing is harmful to your health. You cannot skip them, but of course, you can keep them managed.
If your sander is vacuum ready, you can plug the pipe in the dust port of the sander and stay away from the dust. You must use a suitable respirator while you’re using a sander.
Yet the dust collection port is an important feature to consider.
Frequently Asked Questions – [FAQs]
What is an Orbital Sander?
An orbital sander is a handheld tool that is used for sanding and polishing woods and other surfaces. It moves only in one circular direction.
What is a Random Orbital Sander?
A random orbital sander is similar to an orbital sander. The only difference is the movement. It goes forward and backward direction while rotating in a circular motion. It is used for sanding metal surfaces such as auto body. A random orbital sander is also called Dual Action (DA) sander for its movement.
Can I Sand My Car with an Orbital Sander?
For sanding your car, the best tool you can use is the Random Orbital Sander or Dual Action (DA) sander. An orbital sander will create swirl marks, whereas a random orbital sander will provide an excellent result.
Air Vs. Electric Random Orbital Sander – Which is the best?
If you’re a beginner and don’t own an air compressor, then you should go for the electrical random orbital sander. On the other hand, if you already have a decent air compressor in your garage, an air random orbital sander will be the right option for you.
If you’re concerned about the vibration, you’ll love the air-powered sander.
Final Words
So, now you have all the essential information about orbital sanders. In the buyer’s guide, we’ve discussed all the vital factors so that you can choose one of the best orbital sanders for auto body work.
The Bosch GET75-6N is an excellent electronic DA sander. If you’re looking for air-powered random orbital sander, the 3M 28582 Sander is the one you can consider buying.
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Robert B. Martin, thanks for providing before us such a marvelous article on power tool named Orbital Sander. Your writing style is unique and easily understandable. I have been beneficial reading the article. I hope you will keep on writing this type of article in future.
Hello Laizu,
Thank you for sharing your feedback. We are happy to know that you found this article helpful.
Cheers,
Robert