Wen 6502 vs 6502T | Choosing Between These Disc Sanders

Last updated on December 2nd, 2022 at 10:13 am

Choosing between the Wen 6502 vs 6502T is difficult because of the similarities between the products. Both have a speed of 36,000 rpm and cast iron construction. They are dual grinders available in two grinding wheel sizes. However, some differences are worth comparing. I am assuming that you already have your preferences. You need to match them with one of the products of your choice. Below is a review of the Wen 6502 and Wen 6502T, where I highlight the pros and cons.

Overview of the Wen 6502 

The Wen 6502 is a 6-inch Disc sander with a cast iron base. The iron base makes the sander solid and durable. You do not feel the vibrations produced by the machine. The 4.3A motor produces 3600 rotations per minute. It is a 2-in-1 sanding machine that has two discs of different dimensions. It has a 4 x 36 and a 6 x 6-inch disc. 

The belt is adjustable, and you tilt it from 0 to 90 degrees. Changes between the sandpaper grits are allowed using the tension release lever. It has a sturdy cast aluminum table. The work table has an attached miter gauge. The miter gauge keeps the machine sturdy when working on angled edges. 

The stop bar is one of the safety features that accompany the machine. It helps you control the sanding machine in times of fault or danger. The 2.25-inch dust port connects to a dust extractor that maintains a clean work environment. The belt is easy to change. 

Pros

• Adjustable belt
• Sturdy cast iron base
• Powerful motor
• Simple changes between sandpaper grits
• Smooth

Cons

• The upper bearing is noisy after some time
• Short belt guard

Key Features of the Wen 6502

Powerful motor

The sander comes with a 4.3amp and ½ horsepower motor. That prevents the disc sander from stopping during operation when working on heavy loads.

Blade guard

The blade guard has a way of leading excess wood and sawdust into the collection port. The unwanted material is dust and toxic hence the need to trap it in a collection bag. The blade guard is a safety feature that keeps your fingers safe from the blade. The guard also works as a brake for wood. That is how you achieve stability on the machine.

Table

The combination of a cast-iron table and a sturdy base makes the machine well-balanced. The table supports the machine when operating. It keeps it sturdy by absorbing vibrations. The table has a tilting capacity that ranges from 0 to 45 degrees. The cast iron table lasts longer. 

Dust collection system

 The sander comes with a dust collection port that keeps the machine and the work environment free of dust. Excess material and dust are trapped in a bag. That reduces your workload since you do not clean your sanding machine and the workspace. 

Overview of the Wen 6502T

The Wen 6502T is a 6-inch sander with a cast iron base. The base is durable and sturdy. That makes it strong enough to absorb the vibrations that come with the machine. The 4.3Amp motor makes up to 3600 rotations per minute. The Wen 6502T has  ½ horsepower. That makes the machine withstand the load on large surfaces. 

It is a dual sanding machine with a 4 x 36-inch disc and a 6 x 6-inch disc. The adjustable belt tilts from 0 to 90 degrees. The belt is 4 x 36 inches meaning it is spacious. It gives you the power to switch and replace sandpaper grits. The tension release lever makes changes on sandpaper grits simple. The sander is smooth due to its ease of use. 

The On/Off switch is clearly defined, and you will not miss it. It removes uneven edges and splinters on wood. The sander comes with a sanding belt, sanding disc, Bevelling work table, extended safety guard, 2.25-inch dust port, and a miter gauge. The sander weighs up to 38.6 pounds.

Pros

• No vibrations
• Adjustable belt
• Powerful motor
• Durable iron construction
• The setup is easy

Cons

• The miter table needs modifications
• Changing the disc can be messy

Key features of the Wen 6502T

Adjustable Belt

The belt is adjustable from 0 to 990 degrees. The belt works in a tilting mode from horizontal to vertical. However, that does not mean it cannot move in any other direction between the mentioned. What determines the movement is the material you are working on.

Cast iron base

The sander comes with a heavy-duty cast iron base. It has a base that is strong and sturdy. It has a way of withstanding pressure. It keeps your body away from feeling vibrations. It ensures that your sander sWorkingosition during operation. Working on large or sturdy material results in moving, which is the base’s function.

Dust extraction system

The sander comes with a dust collection port. It allows you to connect to a dust collector of your choice. The dust port is 2.25 inches in diameter. It minimizes the volume of dust in your work environment. You do not have to put more effort into cleaning after your activities. Sawdust is hazardous to your health. You need an extraction feature that reduces the chances of inhaling dust.

Table

The work table that holds your material comes with a miter gauge. The support table bevels the sander from 0 to 45 degrees. It has a removable miter gauge. The work table is eight ¼ x 6 ¼ inches in dimension. 

Similarities

• Both sanders produce 36,000 rotations per minute. 
• They both come with two disc sanders measuring 4 x 36 inches and a 6 x 6 inch.
• They come with belts that tilt from 0 to 90 degrees
• They both have 4.3 Amp motors. 
• The work tables have miter gauges.
• They both have a 2.25-inch dust port.

Differences

• Wen 6502 weighs 38.6 pounds, whereas Wen 6502T weighs 39 pounds.
• The Wen 6502T is more affordable than the Wen 6502. 

Cost 

The Wen 6502T is more affordable than the Wen 6502. It is under 200, whereas the Wen 6502 is under 300.       

Verdict

In summary, there are more similarities between the products than differences. They are the same in speed, power, durability and comfort. The differences are in weight and cost. If you are looking for a more affordable grinder, I recommend the Wen 6502T. There is a slight weight difference between the two. If you think dropping a few grams will make a difference, go with the Wen 6502.