Vibratory Tumbler Build: Big Blue #2

Hello Friends. A couple months ago I built my first vibratory rock tumbler. I shared the maiden voyage and polishing results with you. Named ‘Big Blue’ the tumbler did a great job. At this same time the motor in my first vibratory tumbler (a Raytech TV-10) completely burnt up. So, I decided to make a second unit with a couple lessons learned from my first one. In addition, several of you asked me to do a ‘build video’ which I’ve never done before. So, here it is- Big Blue #2 and my first attempt at a build video, with polishing results at the very end. FYI vibratory tumblers provide excellent final polish results. They do not replace rotary tumblers, which are used in Stage-1 of basic rock tumbling.

Why would I do a build video? For me personally, I hope in some way this video encourages you to try and build your own unit. To cite @KatyDidRocks: Keep On Doing! If you find this video informative or if you have any questions, inquiries, etc. drop a note in the comments or send me an email.

UPDATE: There is a 5" pc of angle iron I ended up not using. This was a result of mounting the motor more efficiently than Bib Blue #1 (using less space) and the 5" pc would have collided with grade8 mounting bolts. I may decide to weld these pcs on future builds and eliminate some of the drilling and subsequent mounting bolts. Good luck to all who have contacted me with build questions. I'm glad this video has encouraged many people to build their own vibratory rock tumbler!

Please consider subscribing. Join me at Rock & Lap to learn rock polishing, be creative, make things, etc. The "Lap." in the channel name is short for Lapidary! This channel is a wonderful place to share hobbies and learn from each other. I'll be sharing things regarding the outdoors, rock hounding, fossils, and lapidary.

   / @rockandlap