Every day I'm tumblin'...(Vibratory Tumbler advice)

[spiroagnew]

I have a few jobs on the horizon for the new year (couple of teardowns and a PF swap)...wondering if I could have a bit of advice on buying a vibratory tumbler or if one is really warranted. Would be nice for those metal parts to really shine. Pinside pointed me in the right direction as per big names in the tumbler landscape and media to use, but any hands-on advice or personal experience would be appreciated. Thanks all.

RCBS Vibratory Case Cleaner - $84.99USD
http://www.amazon.com/RCBS-87088-Vi...589532&sr=8-1&keywords=Vibratory+Case+Cleaner

Lyman Pro Sifter - $56.20USD
http://www.amazon.com/Lyman-7631318...589532&sr=8-4&keywords=Vibratory+Case+Cleaner

Frankford Arsenal Tumbler Kit - $64.99USD
http://www.amazon.com/Frankford-Ars...589532&sr=8-3&keywords=Vibratory+Case+Cleaner

 

[Vengeance]

I have the Lyman Pro, it's been ok, the size of the bowl isn't the greatest for pinball parts,

There was a tubler that used to be offered on pinrestore.com that was great, but the company cheaped out on the motors and they stopped being able to handle the weight of pinball stuff.

I've been much more happy with the results from my buffing machine then my tumbler, it's a much more manual process but you get much better results.

 

[DRANO]

I like this Eastman 18lb kit.
I got it on sale for $150, but it was essentially $200 to my door.
But, you do get an extra tub and they are a great size. I keep different media in each for convenience. The kit also comes with corn and triangle media to start. Just buy some crushed walnut and Flitz and you're ready to go.

http://www.amazon.com/Eastwood-Cleaning ... B005T43O6Y




As far as process.
I use an ultrasonic cleaner to get dirt off. Then the tumbler for smaller parts (up to the size of a flipper bracket or scoop) and I'll be investing in a nice larger polishing/buffing wheel for big and awkwardly shaped parts once my shop is all set up.

 

[spiroagnew]

I'll check out that model...figured I'd have to get an ultrasonic cleaner as well...to deal with the grime.


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