Swirl Sanding Marks

[Stretch]

Hello All-

I've got a Makita 5" Variable Speed Random Orbit Sander that I've been playing with to help speed things up. I've used to with 80 grit paper to quickly remove old paint off metal but I'd also like to use it for finishing. I've got up to 1800 grit discs and some Mirka 2000 and 4000 abralon pads for it. The trouble is it seems that no matter how careful I am with it I end up with small swirl marks that look like a spiral bound notebook.

Is this due to me using too much pressure, too fast or slow of speed on the sander or what? I know that colorsanding by hand is probably the best but I'm looking for ways to speed things up.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks-Stretch

 

[kevsLX]

Most folks that use the dry ultra fine discs on a machine use a DA with a really short throw, like only 1/32".

 

[Stretch]

Is the throw adjustable? I assume that since I'm getting the larger swirl marks I have a larger throw, probably too large?

Thanks-Stretch

 

[LudicrousSpeed]

I only go up to 1000 wet on my DA, then jump to 1500 or 2000 by hand.

Once I get to that point, it doesn't take too long anyway.........

 

[Osh]

Don't know anything about the Makita but have used a Hutchins and a Dynabrade to wetsand and haven't had any problems.Maybe dirt picked up on the paper might be the culprit.