Strange Ticking Noise

[DJKinsella]

I recently fired up my 2000 model year system to sharpen a plane iron. The motor now makes a strange "ticking" noise. It doesn't seem to affect the sharpening process, its just rather disconcerting. To verify that it was the motor, I lifted the motor off the drive wheel and turned it on. Also, I can spin the grind stone by hand in this manner with no noise and very little effort. Since I am a total hobbiest when comes to woodwork, I really don't have that many hours on the motor. Is there anything to do regarding the noise, or should I just wait until it exhibits a more dramatic symptom?

Thanks for any insight you can provide.

[Jeff Farris]

I doubt you have a serious problem.  Try the following procedure and see if it minimizes the problem.

Remove the stone and pull the shaft from the drive side.

• Remove the stone and pull the shaft from the drive side.
  
• Clean the plastic bushings and lube them with a Teflon lubricant.
  
• Reinstall the shaft.
  
• Treat the drive tire with automotive belt dressing.
  
• Reinstall the stone.
  

If that doesn't tame it, call us.

[DJKinsella]

Thanks for the quick response. I'd already done everything on your list with the exception of application of belt dressing to drive wheel. I will get some today at lunch and give it a try. I'll let you know how it goes on Monday.

[DJKinsella]

I have accomplished all of the suggestions and the noise still persists. I see that you will be at the Sacramento Woodworking show at the end of April, should I just bring it in when I come to the show?

[Jeff Farris]

Where did you buy your machine?  If it is from us, and it is within 6 years of purchase, I think we need to send you a new motor.

[DJKinsella]

The Tormek was a gift, so I'll do some research to see if they did the right thing and purchased from SharpToolsUSA.

Jeff, let me just say that I really appreciate the fact that you have taken the time to answer my posts. In today's mega-store mentality, good old fashioned customer service has gone by the wayside. You have guaranteed that any future Tormek purchases will be made through SharpToolsUSA.

[DJKinsella]

  I have researched the gift and, sadly, it was purchased through a catalog source with the initials GW.

Once the noise starts to affect function, or I can't stand to listen to it, I'll be looking to get a replacement motor!

Thanks again for all your help,
Dave

[Jeff Farris]

If it is less than three years old, it is still under warranty.  I can arrange a replacement motor (we handle all TORMEK service work, regardless of dealer).