Two thoughts:

1. Check to see if the pulley is turning.

2. If not, check to see if the motor shaft itself is turning.

Lots of non-motor possibilities: the pulley may be stripped, the belt may be stretched, or the motor may have shifted, releasing tension on the belt, or (less likely) may have shifted in such a way as to bind.

If the problem is with the motor, it’s a little more difficult to diagnose: could be a problem with bearings, the shaft could be seized, or about a dozen other things. If the motor is on but the shaft won’t spin, UNPLUG IT, then try manually turning the shaft to see if it is seized. If it won’t turn, it likely has bad bearings, dirt in the bearing/slipring, or is otherwise damaged. If it does spin by hand, you’re likely just binding due to the motor rotating on its plate. (Less likely, but possible.)

Let us know!

Hey Patricia!

First of all, congrats on being bitten by the print bug. Secondly, these are both decent prices. Rollers will cost you a couple hundred bucks for the Craftsman, but it’s a bit stronger press than the Kelsey. You’ll need to spend some more money though, to really get started. I’d budget for an extra $300-400 in additional supplies, depending on what accessories the seller throws in with your press. You’ll need:
– ink
– tympan and packing material
– gauge pins (I recommend Henry)
– a Boxcar base or similar if you plan to print your own designs using photopolymer
– roller height gauge
– quoins and quoin key
– furniture (for locking up your form)
– line gauge (a fancy printer’s ruler)
– oil (3in1 is great)
– solvent for clean-up (mineral spirits, California Wash, etc.)

As a caveat, I’d like to give you some realistic expectations of what a 5×8 tabletop can produce. If you’re looking for a deep impression (a bite), you’ll be very limited on how large an image you can print. I have a couple of Adanas that I use for teaching, and one of them was my starter press. I limit size to no more than about 6-8sq inches, less if the image is a high solid area. For small designs on notecards, a 5×8 would be perfect. For a more elaborate wedding invitation, for instance, you may push the upper limits of what a little tabletop can produce.

Hope that helps, and keep us posted!

Hey Rhonda,

There’s a great Heidelberg guy in Atlanta that gives workshops named Gale Lightfoot. Incidentally, his wife is named Gail. 😂

Depending on how soft the bag material is (Kraft something or other, I’m guessing?) I reduce my platen packing and slip a sheet of red board into the bag to keep the impression from going through. It takes an extra couple of seconds per print, but it’s worth it!

Hi, Davina!  

I’m using a variable speed controller with a 3hp motor, which is actually a little overkill for my 12×18. I couldn’t even tell you who makes the motor — you just want a 3-phase general purpose enclosed motor (2hp or higher, since getting the wheel started from low speed takes some torque), with a fan cooling system. 

The controller seems to make all the difference. This one goes from 1 to 100 in increments of tenths, so you’ve got lots of fine control over your speed. I’ve never been over about 40 on it — it’s too fast for the press! Let me know if you have more questions — my husband is the master of motors. 😉

http://www.grainger.com/product/5WJK2?cm_sp=HIO-_-HIDP-_-BTM_V2V&cm_vc=IDPBVZ12

Are the Lemon Drop A2s still available? I’d like them.  Also, let me know if you have any pre-cut A2 stock.  Thanks!

[Author]

Posts