Ridgid Heavy Duty Variable Speed Belt Sander

As a seasoned woodworker, I've had the opportunity to test a variety of belt sanders, and recently, I put the Ridgid R2740 Heavy Duty Variable Speed Belt Sander through its paces. This corded belt sander, with its 6.5 Amp motor and variable speed dial, promises a lot on paper. But how does it hold up in practice? Let's dive into my experience with this tool.

Design and Build Quality

The first impression of the Ridgid R2740 is that it feels well-built. It has a sturdy frame and a comfortable grip, thanks to the soft-grip handles designed to reduce vibration. The 12-foot rubber cord is a nice touch, providing ample reach and durability. The cord wrap feature is practical for storage, keeping everything neat and tidy.

One thing that stood out to me immediately was the soft start feature. Unlike some belt sanders that roar to life instantly, the Ridgid R2740 takes a couple of seconds to get up to speed. This allows for a more controlled start, preventing any sudden jolts that could mar the surface you're working on. While it took some getting used to, I appreciated this design choice as it likely helps in reducing the inrush current, preventing breaker trips.

Performance

The variable speed dial, which ranges from 400 to 950 SFPM (Surface Feet Per Minute), offers flexibility for different sanding tasks. Whether you're removing a lot of material quickly or doing finer, more detailed work, the ability to adjust the speed is invaluable. The electronic feedback system helps maintain the speed under load, ensuring consistent performance.

However, the performance of the Ridgid R2740 isn't without its flaws. While it handles light to moderate tasks well, it struggles with more demanding jobs. When using coarse grit sanding belts, the sander seemed to lack the necessary horsepower, slowing down noticeably. This was particularly evident when I was sanding down a hardwood floor. The motor overheated after prolonged use, and the sander started to emit a burning smell, which was concerning.

Dust Collection

The twin fan dust collection system is one of the highlights of this sander. It does an admirable job of picking up dust, and the onboard vacuum adapter is a thoughtful addition. When connected to a shop vac, the dust collection is even more effective, leaving the workspace relatively clean. However, the dust bag itself tends to clog after extended use, which can be frustrating. Clearing out the dust requires some disassembly, which isn't the most convenient process.

Ease of Use

One of the standout features of the Ridgid R2740 is the tool-free belt release. Changing belts is a breeze, saving time and effort. The automatic belt tracking system also works well, keeping the belt aligned properly without constant adjustments. This is a significant improvement over some other sanders I've used, where the belts tend to slip or require frequent realignment.

The sander's flush sanding capability against vertical surfaces is another plus. This feature allows for precise sanding in tight corners and edges, which is particularly useful for detailed woodworking projects.

Durability and Maintenance

Unfortunately, durability seems to be a weak point for the Ridgid R2740. During my testing, the sander exhibited signs of wear and tear relatively quickly. The drive roller wore out faster than expected, and the motor started to show signs of strain after only a few hours of use. The accessible brushes are a nice touch for easy maintenance, but the overall longevity of the tool is questionable.

The lifetime service agreement is a great selling point, offering free parts and service after registration. However, it's crucial to register the tool promptly to take advantage of this warranty. Failure to do so could leave you without support, as I discovered when my initial unit failed, and I hadn't registered it in time.

Noise Level

Belt sanders are generally noisy, and the Ridgid R2740 is no exception. It's loud enough that ear protection is advisable during use. While this is somewhat expected, it's worth noting for those who are sensitive to noise or working in a shared space.

Final Thoughts

The Ridgid R2740 Heavy Duty Variable Speed Belt Sander is a mixed bag. It has several commendable features, such as the variable speed control, soft start, effective dust collection, and ease of use. However, its performance under heavy load and questionable durability detract from its overall appeal.

For hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts looking for a reliable sander for light to moderate tasks, the Ridgid R2740 could be a good fit, especially given its competitive price and lifetime service agreement. However, for more demanding jobs or professional use, this sander may not be up to the task. The power issues and durability concerns make it less suitable for heavy-duty applications.

In conclusion, I would recommend the Ridgid R2740 with reservations. If your projects are relatively light and you value features like variable speed and easy belt changes, it could serve you well. However, if you're tackling more intensive tasks, you might want to consider looking at other options that offer more power and durability.