rocknewb101
fully equipped rock polisher
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Post by rocknewb101 on Aug 8, 2023 10:16:41 GMT -5
and have decided to splurge on a cabbing machine! I've read through the posts I could find comparing the different machines and am considering either the Cab King or the Kinglsey North. Both are in my range (kinda lol), but both have things I like and don't like. The water system on the CK is likely a deciding factor as i think sometimes cross contam was an issue with the slant cabber, so want to avoid that. Since the reviews I read on here were at least 3 years old, plus older, I was just wondering if anything had seriously changed with either of these that would cause you to say "AVOID at all costs" or "This is the best hands down"....I know it's personal preference too. I've read that the wheels on the CK aren't as good as the others, but I also understand I can replace them out with the better (Nova) wheels when needed.
Thanks for any input you may have!
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Post by Starguy on Aug 8, 2023 10:49:40 GMT -5
rocknewb101 . My CK 8V1 came with two sets of soft wheels. I’m guessing you are looking at a 6” machine. The extra money for the 8” machine buys you a lot more space between wheels. The footprint of the 8” is much bigger. The water system on the CK is outstanding. Clean water on the wheels at all times. The down side is you go through a lot of water. The waste water settles quickly so I don’t have any problem dumping it down the drain. The CK has an optional trim saw attachment. I’ve used the saw quite a bit but it’s made kind of cheap with a lot of plastic. The table on the saw scratches up easily and it contacts the blade at times which scars it up. The blade is good. Overall, the CK has been a quality machine. The 8” machine is worth the extra money if you have the room for such a large machine. Just my $ 0.02.
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Post by Pat on Aug 8, 2023 10:59:19 GMT -5
I have a Diamond Pacific Genie. I like it. Wish it had the overhead water drip system, and the bigger space between wheels.
Some users convert the water system to overhead.
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rocknewb101
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Post by rocknewb101 on Aug 8, 2023 12:02:24 GMT -5
rocknewb101 . My CK 8V1 came with two sets of soft wheels. I’m guessing you are looking at a 6” machine. The extra money for the 8” machine buys you a lot more space between wheels. The footprint of the 8” is much bigger. The water system on the CK is outstanding. Clean water on the wheels at all times. The down side is you go through a lot of water. The waste water settles quickly so I don’t have any problem dumping it down the drain. The CK has an optional trim saw attachment. I’ve used the saw quite a bit but it’s made kind of cheap with a lot of plastic. The table on the saw scratches up easily and it contacts the blade at times which scars it up. The blade is good. Overall, the CK has been a quality machine. The 8” machine is worth the extra money if you have the room for such a large machine. Just my $ 0.02. Thanks Brent!! I wish wish I could afford the 8" -would be nice to have that extra room - but that's ok. I think the 6" will work fine. Really like the water system - seems the Kingsley has a similar set up. Just came across Rob's video he did with the Kingsley and it seems fairly comparable. I have a trim saw already, but might be nice to have one unit....lots to consider - appreciate your input!
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rocknewb101
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Post by rocknewb101 on Aug 8, 2023 12:05:49 GMT -5
I have a Diamond Pacific Genie. I like it. Wish it had the overhead water drip system, and the bigger space between wheels. Some users convert the water system to overhead. I did look at the DP Genie - the price is a bit more, I think. the water drip system is one of the biggest selling points for me as I think I deal with contamination now. Thanks Pat!
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rocknewb101
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Post by rocknewb101 on Aug 8, 2023 12:07:08 GMT -5
I haven't used either of those modern brand names. You may have seen I'm currently restoring a 2 wheel arbor. The restoration on my arbor is going to exceed $1k by the time I'm finished. I guess I wouldn't recommend a full restoration of a 2 wheel arbor but you could still cab with a used one. Plus side to restoration is you really learn the machine. It wouldn't cost much to re-design the 2 wheel arbor into a 6-8 wheel arbor with a longer shaft. My point is whatever model you do choose, don't be afraid to modify it to your desire. Pretty simple machines. I have zero mechanical aptitude lol. Hubby could probably do this, but I'd sit and stare at it willing it to do it's thing and wonder why its not haha...Thanks, Hefty!
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Post by Starguy on Aug 8, 2023 13:09:05 GMT -5
Thanks Brent!! I wish wish I could afford the 8" -would be nice to have that extra room - but that's ok. I think the 6" will work fine. Really like the water system - seems the Kingsley has a similar set up. Just came across Rob's video he did with the Kingsley and it seems fairly comparable. I have a trim saw already, but might be nice to have one unit....lots to consider - appreciate your input! You’re going to love whatever you choose. I’m extremely happy with the 8v1 but there are downsides to such a large machine. I wouldn’t even try to move it by myself. It would be hard to move with two people. The footprint is very large, comparable to a 16” saw. When you get your new cabber assembled don’t forget to take pictures. It will never be that clean again. Your quality and quantity will improve immediately with the professional grade cabber. I’m happy for you because I know what a big step it is.
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rockbrain
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Post by rockbrain on Aug 8, 2023 13:19:44 GMT -5
To me the fact that the Kingsley North is a belt drive puts it head and shoulders above the double shafted motors (Cab King, Genie). If the time comes where I need a motor replacement I can pick a multitude of brands, I just need the right HP. I could also up the HP if wanted. When you replace the CK or Genie motors you're also buying new shafts and are much more limited in availability. All stainless steel, bigger space between the wheels. For me the KN was a no brainer. It doesn't drain great but I consider that a minor issue. The pan is level with 2 large drains. If for some reason you wanted to use geysers you could. I don't think it could get any better without a pitched pan but like I said, for me it's not a big deal at all. It drains better than a Genie!. The KN service was amazing, I got the machine much quicker than I thought I would and I was surprised that there was no extra cost. No tax, no shipping and it was packed really well. I agree with Starguy that the 8" is kind of nice. I've got a machine with 8" wheels and I have no issues with the 6". I wish I had the availability of a 4" so I could do tighter inside curves. Congrats, I'm sure you'll enjoy whichever one you decide to go with.
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rocknewb101
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Post by rocknewb101 on Aug 8, 2023 14:22:30 GMT -5
Thanks Brent!! I wish wish I could afford the 8" -would be nice to have that extra room - but that's ok. I think the 6" will work fine. Really like the water system - seems the Kingsley has a similar set up. Just came across Rob's video he did with the Kingsley and it seems fairly comparable. I have a trim saw already, but might be nice to have one unit....lots to consider - appreciate your input! You’re going to love whatever you choose. I’m extremely happy with the 8v1 but there are downsides to such a large machine. I wouldn’t even try to move it by myself. It would be hard to move with two people. The footprint is very large, comparable to a 16” saw. When you get your new cabber assembled don’t forget to take pictures. It will never be that clean again. Your quality and quantity will improve immediately with the professional grade cabber. I’m happy for you because I know what a big step it is. I'm super excited! I will take pictures for sure! My area now is a hot mess so it will be nice to get it cleaned up. Thanks, Brent - I appreciate that! Going to save the other sapphire for this, I think.
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rocknewb101
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Post by rocknewb101 on Aug 8, 2023 14:24:35 GMT -5
To me the fact that the Kingsley North is a belt drive puts it head and shoulders above the double shafted motors (Cab King, Genie). If the time comes where I need a motor replacement I can pick a multitude of brands, I just need the right HP. I could also up the HP if wanted. When you replace the CK or Genie motors you're also buying new shafts and are much more limited in availability. All stainless steel, bigger space between the wheels. For me the KN was a no brainer. It doesn't drain great but I consider that a minor issue. The pan is level with 2 large drains. If for some reason you wanted to use geysers you could. I don't think it could get any better without a pitched pan but like I said, for me it's not a big deal at all. It drains better than a Genie!. The KN service was amazing, I got the machine much quicker than I thought I would and I was surprised that there was no extra cost. No tax, no shipping and it was packed really well. I agree with Starguy that the 8" is kind of nice. I've got a machine with 8" wheels and I have no issues with the 6". I wish I had the availability of a 4" so I could do tighter inside curves. Congrats, I'm sure you'll enjoy whichever one you decide to go with. Thank you rockbrain! Very helpful. The 8" would be amazing - wish it wasn't so much more $. I'll share as soon as I hit the order button
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RWA3006
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Post by RWA3006 on Aug 8, 2023 14:46:51 GMT -5
To me the fact that the Kingsley North is a belt drive puts it head and shoulders above the double shafted motors (Cab King, Genie). If the time comes where I need a motor replacement I can pick a multitude of brands, I just need the right HP. I could also up the HP if wanted. When you replace the CK or Genie motors you're also buying new shafts and are much more limited in availability. This is true.
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Post by stardiamond on Aug 8, 2023 20:27:39 GMT -5
I have never had a contamination issue with my Genie and I mean 20 years, never. For less money, consider used equipment or arbors. I don't take a cab through six wheels sequentially. Working in batches a good two wheel arbor will get the job done as long as it doesn't take time to swap wheels. For used check this out: www.facebook.com/groups/LapidaryEquipmentMarketplace
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Post by perkins17 on Aug 8, 2023 21:08:32 GMT -5
Honestly if you can find a good older unit (Highland park made awesome machines, I can testify to that) you could save yourself quite a bit of $. Clubs and estate sales are great. I'm not able to afford new equipment, so oldies but goodies are my go-to pieces. Awesome that your getting into cabbing, feel free to message me if you ever have questions, although I am far from a master. Hoping to see a new (or new to you) machine and some cabs cut soon. -Nicholas
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iamchris
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Post by iamchris on Aug 9, 2023 6:40:33 GMT -5
I have absolutely nothing to offer except for excitement for you! I look forward to watching your upcoming posts! This must be thrilling to make such a jump.
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Post by jasoninsd on Aug 9, 2023 7:10:59 GMT -5
I'm in a geographic location where there never seems to be any used equipment for sale. I kept my eye out for quite awhile for a cabbing machine. Nada. Zippo. Zilch! Same results for a local used saw!
So...I too opted for a new machine. I got the KN Cabber 6 with Nova wheels (same as Rob's). I have no experience with any other cabbing machine. However, I don't believe I'd be as happy with any other 6" machine now that I've used the KNC6. The spacing between the wheels is a huge plus for me. Gary is right about the drainage...but that can be solved with placing the front of the machine on a shim so it's angled to the back. Me...I just lift the front of the machine when I'm done cabbing and drain all the water out the back. That can be cumbersome for some, so a shim would work just as well.
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chris1956
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Post by chris1956 on Aug 9, 2023 8:21:35 GMT -5
When I was looking at cabbing machines a couple years ago, I came down to the same choice as you. Cab King or Kingsley North. I ended up going with Kingsley North and haven't been disappointed. It is the best built piece of newer equipment that I have. Here are a few thoughts. I don't like everything but that would be true of any equipment.
Likes: - I like the belt drive vs direct drive. - I like the all stainless steel construction. It is going to last forever. - The manual they provide is probably more comprehensive than any other I have received with new lapidary equipment. - Like the individual water lines to each wheel.
Could be better: - They have grease fittings on the shaft (Actually like this vs the permanently lubricated bearings on most equipment) that you have to "periodically" grease. To do this you have to remove the top which takes some time to get off and back on making sure you don't squeeze any of the water lines to the wheels. - They may have changed this but the discs on the end where the same diameter as the wheels and the last wheel is close to the discs. You have a tendency to hit the discs when you are grinding/polishing. I think you could change the spaces and get rid of this. I think they may now be making the discs slightly less diameter now but you might check with them on that.
Other Considerations: - I have fumble fingers and work with softer stones. If you drop a stone on the hard stainless steel bottom, you may end up breaking it. I added thin rubber matts under each wheel compartment so dropped rocks don't break. - If you use the end disc and polishing disc, they make a lot of spray that requires cleanup. Don't know how you would include these discs and do different so just be aware. - When using the wheels on either end, you get a lot of spray that shoots out from the end of the machine (similar to the discs). I attached a couple thin plastic sheets and solved that issue. - When using the machine there is a fair amount of liquid (I think from the spray from the wheels) that seeps out of the back and sides of the machine, especially from the interface between the top cover where it contacts the back wall. Finally got some very thin weather stripping material and it solved most of that leaking. - Stainless steel construction does make it heavy. -People mentioned the drainage. I also have it slightly tilted to drain.
Hope this helps.
Chris
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Post by rockjunquie on Aug 9, 2023 9:24:02 GMT -5
I'm so happy and excited for you!! I know Genies are kinda outta fashion now, but I love mine. The water trays have never been an issue. Once, I THOUGHT I had a problem, but I never did find that to be absolutely true. Whichever one you get, I hope you have years and years of fun with it!!
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wpotterw
spending too much on rocks
Member since September 2016
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Post by wpotterw on Aug 9, 2023 9:35:07 GMT -5
and have decided to splurge on a cabbing machine! I've read through the posts I could find comparing the different machines and am considering either the Cab King or the Kinglsey North. Both are in my range (kinda lol), but both have things I like and don't like. The water system on the CK is likely a deciding factor as i think sometimes cross contam was an issue with the slant cabber, so want to avoid that. Since the reviews I read on here were at least 3 years old, plus older, I was just wondering if anything had seriously changed with either of these that would cause you to say "AVOID at all costs" or "This is the best hands down"....I know it's personal preference too. I've read that the wheels on the CK aren't as good as the others, but I also understand I can replace them out with the better (Nova) wheels when needed. Thanks for any input you may have! I got rid of my Lortone trim saw/cabbing machine combo in 2006 and got a Genie. We're still together.
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Post by Rockoonz on Aug 9, 2023 10:00:53 GMT -5
I like the Lortone/KN belt drive cabbers over the direct drive units like a Genie or Cab King, because motor replacement is inexpensive and easy. The best machine out there in my opinion is the EZ Cab made in USA. If you do FB... www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057610712173For my own use I have a Genie, totally because I got it used for a really good price. I personally prefer 6" wheels over 8", and have considered 4" wheels on adaptors for the Genie. This is why. Inside curves...
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gunsil
spending too much on rocks
Member since January 2023
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Post by gunsil on Aug 9, 2023 12:43:57 GMT -5
I like inside curves too so I got a little custom belt drive machine with the DP 2&3/8" wheels. 6 wheeler with the usual DP grit progression. Guy who made it didn't get the design 100%, thing throws water like crazy. Very slow surface speed but I can fix that somewhat with a pulley change. I still haven't figured out the cloudinary bit to post pics of the great (to me) cabs I can make with it.
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