Rock tumbler suggestions? (edited to include link)

[Orrex]

I use this model for tumbling chainmaille jewelry:

from http://geology.com/rock-tumbler/kids-rock-tumblers.shtml. It's the "Discovery Planet" model.

It also includes a clear plastic dome that goes over the tumbler's drum. Given the nature of the material that I'm tumbling, I've never had to run it more than 8 or 10 hours to get satisfactory results, and all together I'd guess that it hasn't run as long as a single cycle of actual rock tumbling would take.

However, lately I find that at some point during the cycle the drum stops rotating, and the motor makes a low humming sound, a little bit like a grinding noise but clearly not with any major strain. Why does it do this?

I know that the tumbler's built-in cycle is intended to agitate the contents back and forth to mix up the grit slurry and whatnot, but why would it stop its rotation entirely?

Any input from our resident rock tumbler experts is appreciated, though I need to disclaim that my resources don't permit me to upgrade to a more heavy-duty model right now.

Thanks!

[Brickbat]

1. I can't see your pic.

I tumble rocks (mostly agates) and have a Lortone. It's possible your drum might be over- or under-loaded?

[Orrex]

2. Definitely not overloaded

The manual suggests between 8 and 10 ounces of material, and I'm certain that I've never exceeded that amount.

But underloaded? Hadn't even considered that. Do you suppose that it might not have enough weight to hold the spindle onto the drive wheels?

[Brickbat]

3. That *might* be a problem, but I'm just guessing. If it's groaning, it might be a bad motor.

What model is it? Can you oil it a bit?

[Orrex]

4. I don't think that I can oil it, but I'll check

I'd need to open up the housing. http://geology.com/rock-tumbler/kids-rock-tumblers.shtml">Here's the link, by the way.


It would seriously bum me out if the motor's gone bad, because I truly haven't run it more than about 90 hours all together, and that wouldn't even get me through the first phase of rock tumbling!

[Brickbat]

6. Yeah, check my post below.

It looks like a model that's good for a kid who's interesting in rock tumbling, and it could take one cycle of already smooth soft rocks, and that's it -- not something for someone who's serious about making jewelry or making money off rocks. But I don't know. I'd throw some grease at it and see what happens.

[Brickbat]

5. Also, honestly, if you mess around with it and oiling it or taking it apart and putting it back

together again doesn't work, I'd strongly recommend getting a Lortone. I know you said you're not in the market to buy but you could probably find a used one for a reasonable price. The thing is built like a brick shithouse and is pretty quiet.

http://www.lortone.com/tumblers.html

[Orrex]

7. Those prices aren't too bad

Part of why I like my chintzy little tumbler is that it's a good size for how I use it. I seldom tumble more than three or four jewelry pieces plus shot, so in terms size and horsepower it's been ideal (until recently, of course). But those Lortone ones don't look too shabby, and I could probably scrape together $85 with just a little effort.

Thanks for the tips!

[Agony]

8. I only put three or four chunks in mine too!

[Orrex]

9. Nice, but which way does that little white wheel spin?

Can't tell from the pic!

[Agony]

11. Easy, Just put your finger under the chain

If your arms swings to the right, its counterclockwise...
if your arm swings to the left, its clockwise

DUH!

or did you mean ... when it's NOT running?

[Brickbat]

10. You're welcome, and good luck!

:hi:

[Ptah]

12. If it's not level,

the crew installed it incorrectly.