Sanding is not an easy job, especially when you do not have any tools to help you. Belt sanders have made the sanding experience easier and faster than the earlier times. Nowadays, a belt sander is something you must have in your collection to get a smoother finish. Makita has always been a reliable name when it comes to sanding machines. It has several sanders, all varying in functions and specifications. So, there is always something suitable for everyone. So we have decided to review Makita 9404 belt sander because it is not only suitable for the experts, but anyone can use it for its user-friendly side. The auto-tracking belt system, speed control dial, and strong motor take all the attention when we look at Makita 9404 belt sander.
Contents
Powerful 8.8 AMP Motor Featuring Makita 9404 Belt Sander Review
We have the Makita 9404 belt sander that has been a people pleaser for a long time. Here are some of the functions and specifications of this compact belt sander, as well as some advantages and setbacks that we thought could help you.
Speed Control Dial
Unlike Makita 9403 Belt Sander, this Makita 9404 has an adjustable speed system. There is a speed dial near the handle so that you can reach there easily and adjust the speed according to your need. The speed of the belt sander can vary from 690-1440 feet per minute. So, you have a choice to start from the lowest and then slowly go up to the high speed. The speed controller helps you work on different types of materials that need different speeds.
Design and Construction of Makita 9404 Belt Sander
The design is fairly simple for the Makita belt sander 9404. It comes in a compact size and a simple sanding belt. The handle is not that ergonomic but good enough to work with the sander. It comes with a dust bag aligned with the sander, so sometimes, it can drag onto the surface when the dust bag is full and heavy. To avoid this, you can attach it to the vacuum hose and stop worrying. There is a trigger button that turns on the sander once pressed. Also, there is a speed dial close to the handle to adjust the speed according to your need easily.
Auto Tracking Belt System
There is an auto belt tracking system in Makita 9404. Now, you will not have to stop working every time and fix the belt. The belt will automatically fix itself and let you work uninterruptedly. This feature is beneficial when working on a bigger surface that takes a lot of time. Otherwise, you will have to spend almost half the day fixing the belts. while attaching the belt, make sure you check the direction of the arrow and place it accordingly.
Dust Collection
Like all other Makita models, Makita 9404 belt sander also comes with a dust bag aligned with the sander. So, it does not come in the way while you are working. The dust collection port is suitable for vacuum hoses. You can have a mess-free work experience by easily attaching a shop vac to it. Make sure to push the dust bag firmly so that it does not slip off. Dust collection is one of the best innovations for the people who work with wood. The airborne sawdust can not just create a huge mess. It also causes health hazards if they enter your eyes or lungs.
Makita 9404 Belt Sander is Lightweight
The Makita belt sander 9404 is lighter than Makita 9403 belt sander. Weighing only 10 pounds, Makita 9404 is one of the most famous compact belt sanders in the market. Its light body helps the user to use it according to convenience. It can also work horizontally and vertically without tiring your hand. The weight of the sander is enough to do the sanding perfectly. You do not need to apply extra pressure as it can cause the motor to heat up and burn the surface.
Standard Motor
Makita 9404 Belt sander also comes with a strong 8.8 amp motor capable of doing more than what you expect. It can handle wood, rust, and even metal without facing any problem. Makita is a versatile company that creates belt sanders while keeping the customers in mind. The powerful motor can speed up to 690-1440 feet per minute to take on any job in front.
Advantages of Makita 9404
- It has a long cord that gives flexibility while working
- Auto-tracking belt system
- Speed controller dial helps control speed according to need
- Aligned dust bag does not get in the way
- Dust collection port can be attached to a vacuum for better results
- Strong enough motor
- Lightweight but can handle wood, rust, and metal
- Designed for flush sanding
- Easily replaceable belt
- Low noise
- It comes with a 1-year warranty
Setbacks of Makita 9404
- Too expensive
Bottom Line
Among other belt sanders, Makita 9404 belt sander shows higher performance. It rarely breaks down or shows any technical fault. If woodworking is your passion and you will need the auto belt adjustment, variable speed dial, lightweight, high power motor, then the Makita 9404 belt sander is the most suitable for you. You have read the advantages and setbacks as well as the functions through this Makita 9404 review article. It is now up to you to decide if you think this is worth your money.
FAQS
When do you use a belt sander?
Belt sanders offer multipurpose uses. You can use it for sanding very rough surfaces, leveling, rounding, or shaping anything like wood. It is a type of must-have machine in your toolbox if you have a passion for woodworking.
Who is suitable for using Makita 9404 Belt Sander?
Mostly the experts and the professionals are suitable for this kind of expensive belt sanders as they need more specific features to get the precision on their work. The speed adjustment system can be helpful for them as they will have different materials to work on. However, this sanding machine is suitable for all kinds of users that can afford the price. It is reliable and durable, so it will be your work partner for a long time. It doesn’t matter if you make furniture or floors, are a carpenter, or do metal works. You can purchase this to make your life easier. The compact size will ensure you don’t feel any hassle.
Can a belt sander sand floor?
A handheld belt sander like Makita 9404 can sand off dents and scratches pretty well. However, it will not be the same finish as the floor sander, but the belt sander can do the job pretty well in good time.
What grit suits best for wood?
If you need some heavy-duty work, you can have 40 to 60 grit sandpaper that will be coarse enough to take off uneven parts. On the other hand, for smoothing and polishing, you can have finer grits like 80 to 120 grit sandpaper.