So after reading your post Smitty I went to the shop, read the operating manual and used two of the spindles, no issues at all.
My guess is that the comments made in the review of the sander failed to read the manual and note that the sanding sleeves seat on a soft rubber core that needs to be compressed with the appropriate size washers (provided) and tightened down to expand the rubber core. Exactly as it is with the small Dremel sanding drums.
I used it for a few hours this afternoon and thus far, I am happy with the purchase.
This was today's work on the new sander.
Next up, Tru Oil finish the wood and then set the two rivets and the decorative center piece.