How to attach pad to sander - Makita 5" Random Orbit Sander

The holes are to suction dust for a vacuum attachment or dust collection bag. The sander will have a very smooth pad almost shiny if it takes stick-on discs (PSA). If not it will be a velcro pad and in that case you need the velcro discs. This description sounds like you have a velcro pad. Sticky discs wont stick to a velcro pad.

Slim 17mm spanner between dust skirt and backing pad ( might need to jiggle pad about to get spanner to lock shaft ) then simply unscrew pad

That sounds right. It is probably the type that uses adhesive backed paper. You stick the paper to the rubber pad.

It simply unscrews. The pad is held on by a small bolt length attached to the pad. Unscrew it.

Piece of cake. Just push the red slider as far as it will go in the direction of the arrow. Look for the seam where the pad attaches to the sander plate, that is where it separates. Give the rubber a little tug, and it should come off quite easily. Pop the new pad on, lock it in place by pushing the slider button as far as it will go (in the opposite direction to the arrow) and job's a good 'un!

Sounds like it is time for a new backing pad. Usually the hooks get cooked and/or caked so that they don't have the "claws" to grab the fuzz on the sandpaper. If this is a well used backing pad, the hooks eventually just break off from heat and wear.

what is the condition of the felt pad on the driver?? The sander should not be that hard, usually you need to lift up or slightly bear down to get the machine to move left or right. Are there any exposed nails in the area you are sanding and check the grit for the sanding conditions

Try the amazon, here: Amazon com Makita hoop loop. Wish you best of luck. Cheers
Fred

http://www.scribd.com/doc/8345034/National-Detroit-Repair try this site hope it helps

You did not specify how the sanding discs are meant to be attached to your sander's backing pad.  My experience with this type of problem is material from the sanding process builds up on the backing pad and does not allow the sanding discs to adhere properly.  If you have a velcro type system, clean the hooks on the sander's backing bad by soaking the pad's face in a plate of paint thinner for 20 to 30 minutes then use a wire brush to remove the rest of the paint physically.    For adhesive pads clean the sander's backing pad surface with denatured alcohol.  Do not use isopropryl or rubbing alcohol as this may not be 100% alcohol and could contain a lubricant like glycerin.  When the sander's backing pad is completely dry and clean it will hold adhesive backed pads fine.    Flaky paint is best scraped off before sanding, use a wide putty knife or a paint scaper to remove large flakes before sanding.  This will minimize airborne dust and cleanup.    For best results with adhesives, always keep your surfaces  clean!    Good luck and happy sanding!  Michael Mittelsdorf