sander seems weak, bogs down immediately even on bare wood with a fresh battery

— asked by Riley

Quick answer: The sandpaper is clogged (loaded) or the wrong type, or the battery is not delivering full power.

Diagnosis

The sandpaper is clogged (loaded) or the wrong type, or the battery is not delivering full power.

How to Fix It

First, change the sandpaper. Use sharp, new paper. For sanding paint or softwood, use coated aloxide paper, not cheap garnet paper which loads instantly. If using a dust collector, ensure the hose isn't kinked and causing drag on the pad.

If That Didn't Work

Test with a different, fully charged DeWalt 20V battery. A battery with weak cells will show full charge but sag under load. If it runs strong with a different battery, your first battery is failing.

Heads Up

This is a 20V MAX tool, not a corded beast. Manage your expectation for material removal rate. It's for finish work, not heavy stock removal.

0

Different problem with the same product?

Ask about the DeWalt 20V Max Random Orbit Sander DCW210B →