A: Chatter marks on the product are most often caused by the sanding belt splice. A good way to check is to use a black crayon to mark the splice. Then, run a new, clean workpiece through the machine.
Another sign that it’s time to change your belt (or close to it) is when the grit itself begins to clog. You’ll notice spots or streaks on the belt where the material is fusing to the grit bed.