Dating Tormeks

[Para Steve]

No, I don't want to go out with a Tormek, nice as they are.  What I'd like to know is how to see how old one is.  Is there a way to check please?  I've bought a 2000 off eBay and am assured it's only been used as a hobby machine.  It looks ok visually and I'll check for signs of mechanical wear when I collect.  I searched for 'launch date of Tormek 2000' but didn't get any results.  Just curious as to how old it could be.

Thank you. 

Steve

[Ken S]

Welcome to the forum, Steve.

Check out this Online class:

https://www.youtube.com/live/wKHyTAx4ExA?si=D7DZEWeOjmZ-N6ED

My other suggestion is to email Tormek support (support@tormek.se). The Head of Support started with Tormek in the early eighties, and may have actually built part of your machine. Support is very helpful.

Also, be sure to register your Tormek online. The warranty expired long ago; however, registering gives you access tothe latest version of the handbook. I downloaded it onto my ipad and refer to it often.

Keep us posted.

Ken

[Para Steve]

Hi Ken,

Thank you for the information and advice. I've collected the machine now and it looks to have had light use and came with quite a few accessories.   It also has a serial number so I can email.   

The SG250 wheel is at about 220 so am guessing as not much wear left in it.  On the honing side, it has a leather wheel and 2 smaller discs.  These seem dry and fluffy, so maybe need some TLC. 

Am looking forward to getting some time to learn how to use it correctly and have several sharpening projects in the pipeline.  From a couple of Global kitchen knives, to chisels through to electric planer and manual planer blades. 

What I hadn't appreciated was how expensive the stones are! Nearly as much as I paid for the 2000! For good quality knives I'm thinking only the Japanese stone will do? 

All the best

Steve

[Dusty]

Steve,
I contacted Tormek about this a few years ago when I rebuilt my 2000. The first batch was sent to the US in mid 1993. I bought mine at a woodworking show shortly after their arrival. If you are in the market for a new stone I'd highly recommend spending the money on a diamond stone. I bought the coarse and the fine but mostly just use the coarse for changing profiles. The fine is perfect for all my turning tools. Well worth the investment.
Dusty

[Para Steve]

Thanks Dusty.  My budget didn't even exist until I got the sharpening bug!! So I'm already in over my head.  That said, I've sprung for a new SG-250 off eBay for £140/$178 and a new diamond tip for the TT50,  marker pen and knife jig, and honing paste off Amazon. I need to get distracted by actually using the Tormek! 

[John_B]

You still have some wheel left. If I remember correctly you can vo to 180mm. If you register the wheel with Tormek they will give you free access to the manual for reference.