Wheel surface speed is key. I use a 1hp 3450 RPM buffer with 6" wheels. That nets me a Surface Feet Per Minute speed of about 5400. Right in the ballpark to buff aluminum and steel. Way too fast to buff plastic 'cuz of the heat generated.
With your Baldor, an 8" wheel will net you just under 3800 SFPM. It'll work, but it'll be a bit slow going. 6" wheels will net you a hair over 2800 SFPM. If you can swing 10 or 12 inch wheels, you'll get roughtly 4700 and 5600 SFPM respectively.
If I had room for both a 3450 RPM and a 1725 RPM buffer, I'd certainly do it.. Since I only have room for the one, I opted for the 3450RPM unit. So far it's been working out splendidly.
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