I just don't want to have the pads split apart where they glue to the center disc. That I think was the biggest concern, other than the adapters failing when the ball bearings fly out.
Yeah, I've seen all the posts where others have had this happen. I've used the 2000 system on a PC since they were first released. Maybe I'm just lucky or maybe the problem isn't as wide spread as some may believe. To say that some problems didn't exist would be foolish, obviously people have had problems. I didn't have a problem with the first products and haven't since. I've even done some of the prototype testing on some of Aaron's new products. No, I don't get anything out of it but the chance to test a new product. I've volunteered to do this with any product some one would give me a chance to try. I know an individual (Jen@AutoGeek) that had a problem with an adapter, she caught it before it caused any problem and as you would expect Aaron took care of it at no charge. I think she was a little gun shy for a while but got over it. I know the adapter has benefited from a new design and bearings dropping out isn't the problem it once was. The pads have also been redesigned with a hub that has a larger surface area and I see very few new complaints. Remember there are a lot of people using these pads. They're not the latest and greatest new item and don't get much press anymore. They're also a commodity and if they work no one is saying anything about them one way or another. Foam is foam and I don't believe Edge has a big advantage over its competitors in fantastic foam claims it's the design and convenience of the Edge pads that have earned me as a repeat customer.
Having told you about my success with Edge also leads me to tell you that I have on the other hand had two failures using back up plates and traditional hook and loop style pads. It doesn't mean I think the traditional style pads are bad, I don't. Stuff happens, sometimes it's abuse sometimes it's not paying attention to warning signs that are present. I can honestly say that's what happened one time when my back up plate let go. Instead of going out an getting a new one, I tried to make one that was showing signs of wear make it through one more detail. The moral of the story here is that when you see signs of wear stop and fix the problem, if a pad has a tear replace it, if the backing plate is missing hooks replace it. Maybe that's where some of the problems arise using the Edge system. It's difficult to see a problem that's just starting due to the pad design. I usually take an Edge pad and try to wiggle the center from side to side before using it. If I felt any slop I would not use it.
I've spoken to Aaron at Edge. I honestly believe some of the problems related to Edge failures have to do with users running pads loaded with product on an orbital at high speeds for extended periods of time. Does that mean the Edge product needs additional development so this doesn't happen? Well, maybe but I personally don't believe in using anything flat out for long periods. I don't even use the fan in my car on high speed for more than a brief period. I take pretty good care of my products and get good results because I spend a little extra care and thought in their use.
Now because I've had traditional hook and loop systems go South on me doesn't mean I wouldn't use one again. I would, but just prefer using the Edge system because it saves me both time and money. I also don't have to carry quite as many pads with me. My recommendation would be to try them, you won't know what they're about unless you do. If that doesn't feel right buy a good back up plate (don't get cheap here) and some nice Lake Country pads. I think you will find that you can be happy using either set up and if you haven't gotten use to the convenience of the Edge set up you wont' miss a thing.
Jngrbrdman, please forgive me for jacking this thread and turning it into an Edge advertisement.
This year you have to come to the Spring Cleaning workshop. Perhaps you can offer some instruction on rotary tools. We'll have a PC, UDM, Flex DA, and whatever you want to bring to compare with. It would be a great opportunity for people to see the difference.