7 replies to this topic

[Gil Aubin]

Back in the day, I cleaned chassis' with steel wool, Comet and water.  Looks like most (not all) builders today are using a tumbler.  My question is, what tumblers are people using and tell me about the process please.  For example, how long do you tumble, do bearings need to be removed or protected, what are the downsides to tumbling (if any)?  Thanks in advance, just trying to catch up on 25 years of changes.

[slotcarone]

Gil:  I do not have a tumbler. My chassis shine from SOS in the sink and metal polish. I do a lot of SOS work during the build after each step. This removes any acid residue and prepares the metal for soldering again.

[Dominator]

I use a cheap one off amazon. I use small ceramic medium, a cap of Hornaday brass cleaner, and fill the container with water. 6-8 hours gets everything clean and shiny.

I personally have never had an issue with bearing performance after they come out of the tumbler but some racers prefer to install the bearings after cleaning.

[Fergy]

Gil - There was a great thread here awhile ago on tumbling - search for it....

[Dominator]

Found the thread

https://slotblog.net...s/?fromsearch=1

[Gil Aubin]

Found the thread

https://slotblog.net...s/?fromsearch=1

 

Thanks, Dom, I searched but obviously not far enough back.

 

BTW, you might want to consider extending your stay in California if you look at the weather forecast here this weekend

[Dominator]

Ya looking like I may be staying here an extra day

[Dan Ebert]

I have the Lortone tumbler with use media from Haror Freight.