Mini belt sander

[WoodworkerTom]

I looked at Harbor Freight too as an option. It is likely I will only use that sander for this one job . I will probably head over to my go to took store and see the Makita version and then head over to Harbor Freight and compare. I don't have a problem spending more money if I can find more than a single project where it will help.

Thanks everyone.

[Tony Z]

I looked at Harbor Freight too as an option.  It is likely I will only use that sander for this one job .  I will probably head over to my go to took store and see the Makita version and then head over to Harbor Freight and compare.  I don't have a problem spending more money if I can find more than a single project where it will help.

Thanks everyone.

I bought the Porter Cable thinking the same thing. Found out how wrong I was! Use that little sander far more than I ever thought I would.

[blackhat]

A couple of grades of large flat files would do that job about as fast as any powered sander is going to.

[gboot]

Tom,
Have you tried a pressure washer ? I have a set of teak chairs that are now 15 years old and still look good. Every two years I power wash them, not too high pressure cleans them up good , does raise the grain. I then sand them lightly.

[ez-duzit]

This job could easily be done using thin sanding blocks made of plywood scrap with PSA sanding disc attached. But the multi-tool would be much faster and easier on the hands.

[jstraw]

Another option I’ve used is sold at marine supply stores. There are two part teak cleaners for boats that are designed for this task. I restored a 1976 boat with a lot of teak pieces. The teak looked awful and neglected. The cleaning process brought back the original color. Some light hand sanding was necessary only on the most weathered pieces, before reapplying some teak oil.

Semco makes a highly rated heavy duty 2 part teak cleaner. West Marine carries it, but other retailers have it also. One part cleaners require much more scrubbing and damages wood fibers.

[WoodworkerTom]

There was some type of varnish top coat on the bench. I figured a sander would work better but I guess it doesn't hurt to try pressure washing.

[Woodshop]

There was some type of varnish top coat on the bench. I figured a sander would work better but I guess it doesn't hurt to try pressure washing.

pressure washing is where I'd start too
  low pressure like above post said ,where goggles , bad stuff in bird poo

[Bob10]

Here is a picture.  Spaces are about 5/8 inch.  It cleans up nice and I think is worth saving.  Joints are still solid and true.

Pressure wash, sand, oil and then buy cushions

[Timberwolf]

Thanks of the pic - nice looking bench that should be resurrected!


I'd probably pull out my Fein MM w/ the triangular pads - there are plenty of these types of tools in all price ranges depending on your budget; also, keep in mind if you're a DIY around the house, these tools have many different functions.  Another consideration is a small diameter spindle sander attached to a drill - the 1/2" size might hit both slats at the same time?  Good luck and please re-post after the bench has been rejuvenated - Dave
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That would be my first choice.