Explore our FAQ page for answers to common questions. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Feel free to contact us!
Sales
We sell a wide range of power tools including drills, saws, sanders, grinders, and more. Our inventory includes both corded and cordless options. Check out our brands.
In most cases, tools are supplied with a 12-month warranty. However certain manufacturers offer extended warranty periods if you register.
Yes, having many years of vibration testing, we have extensive knowledge to assist in recommending the most suitable tool for your application.
Tool vibration magnitude can vary significantly from one tool to the next, so would always recommend conducting a test (based on your normal application) to ensure you are using accurate data.
In some cases we are able to negotiate extra discounts with the manufacturer, that we would pass on to you (this may vary, so suggest giving us a call).
If you aren’t sure, please call and one of our team will be more than happy to assist in your enquiry.
Yes, in many cases we carry spares here for fast dispatch. We may need to order less common spares, but happy to assist.
We are happy to consider applications (approved after normal checks), however, we may require trading history before approval.
Yes, all our power tools are available for purchase online. We offer secure payment options and fast shipping.
For these regions, please refer to our Delivery & Shipping information page or contact us directly for specific details.
We primarily ship via DHL with next-day delivery and occasionally use Royal Mail. However, please note that our suppliers may use different shipping companies when they ship directly to the customer. Rest assured, we work with our suppliers to ensure that your order reaches you as quickly as possible. If you have specific shipping preferences or requirements, please contact our customer service team. We’re here to help!
If we have your product in stock and you place the order by 2.00pm, we will aim to dispatch the same day for you.
We don’t currently offer payment plans for orders.
If we have the item in stock we normally ship via DHL next day (depending on location). However, times may vary if the order is being shipped direct from the manufacturer or other shipping methods.
We try and list/offer as many products as possible, but we know there are always more options available, so give us a call and we’ll be happy to assist where possible.
You can find detailed information about REMS pressing tools, including specifications, jaw compatibility, and pressing capacities, in our blog post: REMS Pressing Tools: Specifications and Jaw Options Explained
Sanding & Extraction
This depends greatly on the application. In really simple terms, larger orbits tend to enable faster work when covering larger areas (especially flat surfaces). Smaller orbits offer greater control and help with sanding up to edges etc.
This depends on brands. Common orbits will be 2.5mm or 5mm (used by Mirka) or 3mm, 6mm & 9mm (used by RUPES).
Random Orbital uses a system that spins centrally whilst using an offset mechanism. This means that the pad movement is completely random and allows for a broad range of material removal. A Planetary uses a geared system that follows a fixed movement. Due to being gear-driven, these tools offer a faster/more aggressive removal rate, so very good for larger areas.
The vast majority of backing pads use a Velcro (hoop & loop) system for holding the abrasive sheets, so the first thing to check is both facings to ensure there is sufficient hook and loop material. If you use an abrasive such as Abranet© please ensure you always use a pad saver. Abranet© uses a single-layer system that can allow the hooks to ‘poke through’ the abrasive and make contact with the material surface. This can cause the tops of the hooks to wear off and in doing so, damage the material and critically, lose grip on the abrasive.
This is a feature of the machine that self-cleans the filter (dumping collected dust in to the dust bag) that prolongs the life of the filter.
Big question! There are lots of options, with features like different filtration, multiple tool functionality, capacity and environment that can all influence your solution. Consider what normal use it would likely experience and give us a call for assistance.
This is a foam barrier that fits between the backing pad and abrasive. These are really useful when doing any sanding over contours (avoids the hard backing pads ‘cutting’ too much over edges etc. Both RUPES and Mirka offer interface options that allow varied padded thickness whilst maintaining ability to use dust extraction.
Service & Repair
All tool calibrations (REMS) are conducted under strict controls as set by the manufacturer using specific test equipment that is calibrated by the manufacturer. This does not include UKAS certification, but does include a calibration certificate.
We are warranty agents for a number of brands (including Chicago Pneumatic, RUPES, REMS & Makita), but are able to offer a repair service spanning most well-known brands.
All repairs follow a specific process (as set within our ISO 9001 terms). This includes assessment, quote and then undertaking a repair. As each tool is different in terms of repair, this process can vary, but we will always conduct this process as quickly as possible to keep you up and running.
Each repair is different, so unfortunately not always possible to offer fixed cost repairs. However, we will always provide you with a quote before conducting any work to allow you to make an informed decision.
We can offer both onsite testing or testing at our Southampton facilities. Contact us and we can discuss best options to support your business.
There are many benefits to regular services that include maximising tool performance, maintaining vibration levels (not servicing can see vibration levels increase), mitigating risk of tool failure when you need it, extend tool life and reduce long term costs, so yes, lots of benefits!
International Supply
No, Our international supply is offered on Ex Works (EXW) terms from our business address. This means the purchaser makes their own shipping arrangements.
The customer makes their own shipping arrangements from our shop in Southampton and is responsible for any duties, taxes, or fees at the destination.
As part of the sales process, we will provide weights & parcel dimensions along with Country of Origin and HS (custom) codes to allow you to make your own shipping arrangements.
No, there will be no UK VAT if the items are shipped directly out of the UK.
We require payment in GBP Sterling via bank transfer. Please note that international bank transfers incur a £12 administration fee.
Shipment to any UK-based address will attract VAT at the standard rate.
The customer lists items required including billing and destination address. We will supply a quote that includes the customer details along with product costs and estimated lead times to supply all products. If accepted, we can then supply a proforma for payment (bank transfer) along with HS (customs) codes and country of origin. Once payment has been made, we will process the order and update the customer as soon as the items are ready to collect along with weights and parcel dimensions for shipping. Products are held securely until collected by the customer’s shipping company.
Polishing
Afraid Not. Unlike Rotary (where you can use different sizes depending on the model), Rupes design their Dual Action tools to be used with a specific pad size*
*The LK900 Mille Geared Polisher does allow two pad sizes to be used (125mm or 150mm).
This depends on what you want to achieve. Rotary can cover larger areas faster (often used in Marine or Body Shops), where a Dual Action will give a better final finish.
We suggest using 4-5 pads per car (family size).
This can be a number of causes. How you remove the pad from the backing pad can cause damage (tearing it off). We suggest using the RUPES Claw Tool (9.BF7001) which allows careful pad removal and a cleaning brush.
Another cause can be heat build-up. This is often caused by overloading the pad with polish/compound or using for too long (another indicator is the pad ‘dipping’ in the centre). Changing pads more frequently will help avoid this.
Wool pads are nice and soft, but actually have a stronger ‘cutting’ capability that foam, so no is the answer. Use a nice quality microfiber to buff of polish or wax.
Possibly! That said, there are lots of variables to consider, so give us a call and we’ll help out in options.
Well, here is a little cheat sheet to help you!
Tool | Type | Backing Pad | Pad Size | Foam Pad | Wool Pad | Microfiber Pad |
FR32 | Rotary | 990.015 | 75mm (3″) | 9.WF90 or 9.BR90 | 9.BL80F | N/A |
LH16ES | Rotary | 992.500 | 125mm (5″) | 9.WF150 or 9.BR150 | 9.BL150F or 9.BL180H | N/A |
992.600 | 150mm (6″) | 9.WF180 or 9.BR180 | 9.BL180F or 9.BL200H | N/A | ||
LH18ENS | Rotary | 992.500 | 125mm (5″) | 9.WF150 or 9.BR150 | 9.BL150F or 9.BL180H | N/A |
992.600 | 150mm (6″) | 9.WF180 or 9.BR180 | 9.BL180F or 9.BL200H | N/A | ||
LH19E | Rotary | 992.500 | 125mm (5″) | 9.WF150 or 9.BR150 | 9.BL150F or 9.BL180H | N/A |
992.600 | 150mm (6″) | 9.WF180 or 9.BR180 | 9.BL180F or 9.BL200H | N/A | ||
992.650 | 165mm (6½”) | 9.WF200 or 9.BR200 | 9.BL200F or 9.230H | N/A | ||
HR81 (Nano) | Dual Action | 995.001 | 30mm (1¼”) | 9.DA40 | 9.BW40 | N/A |
996.001 | 50mm (2″) | 9.DA70 | 9.BW70 | N/A | ||
LHR75E | Dual Action | 990.007 | 75mm (3″) | 9.DA100 | 9.NW80 | 9.MF80 |
LHR15 (range) | Dual Action | 980.027 | 125mm (5″) | 9.DA150 | 9.NW130 | 9.MF130 |
LHR21 (range) | Dual Action | 981.321N | 150mm (6″) | 9.DA180 | 9.NW160 | 9.MF160 |
LK900 | Geared (Dual Action) | 980.037 | 125mm (5″) | 9.DA150 | 9.NW130 | 9.MF130 |
981.089 | 150mm (6″) | 9.DA180 | 9.NW160 | 9.MF160 | ||
HLR75 | Cordless Dual Action | 990.007 | 75mm (3″) | 9.DA100 | 9.NW80 | 9.MF80 |
HLR15 | Cordless Dual Action | 980.710 | 125mm (5″) | 9.DA150 | 9.NW130 | 9.MF130 |
HLR21 | Cordless Dual Action | 981.710 | 150mm (6″) | 9.DA180 | 9.NW160 | 9.MF160 |