idahojim
off to a rocking start
Member since March 2016
Posts: 1 
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Post by idahojim on Mar 31, 2016 10:09:31 GMT -5
I'm new to rock tumbling - got a used thumler tumbler and a used ultravibe18. The vibe motor didn't last long (I thought maybe because it was used (abused)). So I replaced the motor with a brand new one only for it to crap out before I finished a single batch. I am loading it about 1/2 full. Is this unit just not sturdy enough for rocks or am I doing something wrong. If this unit won't work for rocks what does?
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Post by Drummond Island Rocks on Mar 31, 2016 10:18:50 GMT -5
I'm new to rock tumbling - got a used thumler tumbler and a used ultravibe18. The vibe motor didn't last long (I thought maybe because it was used (abused)). So I replaced the motor with a brand new one only for it to crap out before I finished a single batch. I am loading it about 1/2 full. Is this unit just not sturdy enough for rocks or am I doing something wrong. If this unit won't work for rocks what does? Welcome to the forum. Sorry to hear you are having troubles right off the bat. There is an industrial version of the UV18 for rocks that uses larger springs, a more powerful motor and a more durable bowl. www.therockshed.com/tumbler3.htmlThen there is a light duty version for tumbling shell casings that uses smaller springs, smaller motor and a less durable bowl. www.therockshed.com/tumbler7.html#UV18Chuck |
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Post by Bikerrandy on Apr 1, 2016 18:02:38 GMT -5
My motor has lasted 11 years, I'm thinking that the problem might be not getting enough juice from the outlet. I've had the same problem with a space heater. Had to move to an outlet closer to the breaker panel. Just a thought
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Post by 150FromFundy on Apr 4, 2016 16:39:17 GMT -5
I have used a UV-10 with no issues for about 6 years now. Same goes for my rotary tumblers. The motors were always very reliable in the past. Did you buy your replacement motor through Thumler, or from a Thumler vendor?
Your vide bowl should have a blue stripe going around the circumference of the bowl. This indicates that it is the "industrial" version of the machine for rocks. If not, you may have the "regular" version of the machine that will not hold up to rock tumbling.
Bikerrandy suggested not enough voltage. I have run my tumblers on "Country" power with all its spikes and fluctuations and it has not been a problem for me, yet.
Darryl.
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Post by victor1941 on Apr 4, 2016 17:35:44 GMT -5
I don't know what the problem is with your machine but I have run mine for two years with the only problems being the center bolt threads rusting away, the power cord switch going bad and the bowl pad wearing out. I removed the switch(spliced the wires) and plug directly into a power cord with an off/on switch. I have purchased and cut a stainless steel rod for replacement when the new connector nut no longer holds but am putting that job off until absolutely necessary. Wear and tear has required a replacement bowl for the initial abrasive bowl but separate bowl but the polish stage is still looking good. I run my tumbler full and use ceramic media for 50/50 mix and don't use plastic in my uv-18.
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