Understanding Frankford Arsenal Tumblers
Introduction
The pursuit of accuracy in reloading is a journey, not a destination. Every meticulous step, from selecting the right components to meticulously cleaning your brass, contributes to the ultimate goal of producing consistent, high-performing ammunition. One of the most critical, yet often overlooked, aspects of reloading is the meticulous cleaning of spent brass casings. This is where a Frankford Arsenal tumbler becomes an invaluable asset, and understanding the components that make up this essential piece of equipment is paramount. This article delves deep into the world of Frankford Arsenal tumbler parts, offering a comprehensive guide to maintenance, troubleshooting, and replacement, all to ensure your reloading process runs smoothly and your brass shines.
Understanding that perfectly clean brass is critical, you want to ensure that the reloading process produces consistent and accurate ammunition. The tiny bits of grit, carbon, and other residue clinging to your brass casings can interfere with a consistent burn, which in turn can affect velocity, accuracy, and even the safety of your reloading. A Frankford Arsenal tumbler, paired with the right tumbling media, is the key to achieving that critical level of cleanliness. It gently removes contaminants, leaving you with brass that is not only visually appealing but also primed for consistent performance. But just as with any piece of equipment, your Frankford Arsenal tumbler is subject to wear and tear, making understanding its parts and maintenance an essential skill for any reloader.
Your Frankford Arsenal tumbler isn’t just one monolithic machine; it’s a collection of interconnected components working in harmony. Understanding each part’s function allows you to quickly diagnose problems, perform routine maintenance, and replace worn components. Proper care for your tumbler directly translates to better brass cleaning and more reliable reloading.
Essential Frankford Arsenal Tumbler Parts
The Tumbler’s Heart: The Bowl
The tumbler bowl, also known as the drum, is the core of your Frankford Arsenal tumbler. It is where the magic happens, where the brass and the tumbling media interact, and where the cleaning process unfolds. The bowl’s design can vary depending on the specific Frankford Arsenal tumbler model you own, but it’s typically crafted from durable plastic, chosen for its resistance to the abrasion of the media and the impacts from the brass. Some higher-end models might feature a slightly different material. The bowl’s size is generally optimized for the type of reloading you are doing. For instance, a smaller bowl might suffice for pistol cartridges, while larger rifle cartridges could benefit from a larger bowl.
The bowl’s primary function is straightforward: it houses the brass, the media (typically walnut shells or corn cob), and any cleaning solution you choose to use. As the tumbler rotates, this mixture tumbles, with the abrasive action of the media gradually dislodging dirt, grime, and carbon from the brass surfaces. The bowl’s design, with its shape and potential internal features like ridges, contributes to the tumbling action.
Over time, even the most robust tumbler bowls can succumb to wear and tear. Prolonged use and abrasive forces can lead to the development of small cracks, especially near the rim or along the base. These seemingly insignificant imperfections can gradually worsen, compromising the bowl’s integrity and potentially leading to leaks. Also, the plastic might become brittle over time, or you could experience staining from chemicals used in the cleaning process.
Replacement bowls are readily available, and it is wise to inspect them periodically. If you notice any cracks, wear, or signs of damage, it’s time to source a new bowl. When searching for a replacement, carefully note your Frankford Arsenal tumbler model number. This will ensure you get the correct bowl size and design. The Frankford Arsenal website, as well as many online retailers, offer replacement bowls designed to precisely fit your specific tumbler.
Powering the Process: The Motor and Drive System
The motor and drive system are the powerhouses of your Frankford Arsenal tumbler. They provide the essential rotational force that drives the cleaning process. The motor is typically an AC type motor, chosen for its durability and efficiency. The drive system transfers the motor’s power to the tumbler bowl, ensuring a consistent and controlled rotation.
The heart of the drive system frequently involves a drive belt, which connects the motor to the pulley attached to the bowl. As the motor spins, the belt transfers that rotational energy, causing the bowl to rotate. The pulley system is designed to translate the motor’s speed into the optimal tumbling speed for your brass.
The drive belt is a critical component, as it experiences a constant cycle of tension and movement. Over time, the belt can wear out, crack, or stretch, resulting in reduced tumbling efficiency or even complete failure of the tumbler. Other possible issues within the drive system include motor failures, pulley misalignments, or bearing problems within the motor itself.
Replacing a drive belt is usually a straightforward task, but the process depends on your Frankford Arsenal tumbler model. Start by unplugging the tumbler from the power source. Locate the belt and remove the old one. Sometimes, you may need to remove a cover or guard to access the belt. Measure the belt’s length and width, or if possible, note the part number from the original belt. Search online retailers or the Frankford Arsenal website for the correct replacement belt. Installing the new belt typically involves fitting it over the pulleys, ensuring proper tension. In the rare case of a motor failure, replacement motors are often available as well.
Sealing the Deal: The Lid/Cover
The lid or cover serves a critical, yet simple, purpose: it keeps the media and the brass contained within the tumbler during operation. Its design varies by model, but it typically features a snug fit to prevent leakage and minimize the escape of dust and media.
The lid is often made from plastic, much like the tumbler bowl itself. It’s subjected to the same types of stresses, from impacts and vibration to the chemicals used in the cleaning process. These forces can eventually lead to cracking, warping, or damage to the lid. A lid that doesn’t seal properly can also be a source of frustration, allowing media dust to escape and potentially compromising the effectiveness of the tumbling process.
Inspect your tumbler lid regularly for any signs of damage. Ensure that the lid fits snugly and creates a good seal. If the lid is cracked, broken, or doesn’t seal properly, replacement is essential. Frankford Arsenal, and many online retailers, sell replacement lids specifically designed for various tumbler models. When seeking a replacement, knowing your tumbler model number is crucial for ensuring the right fit.
Separating the Goods: The Media Separator
Some Frankford Arsenal tumbler models come equipped with a media separator. This often takes the form of a rotary or vibratory sifter designed to quickly and efficiently separate the cleaned brass from the used tumbling media. This speeds up the process of removing brass after it has been tumbled.
The media separator’s function is to strain the media away from the brass, allowing you to easily collect your cleaned casings. This reduces the time and effort needed to clean brass.
Like other Frankford Arsenal tumbler parts, the media separator can face challenges. Clogging, where small bits of media become lodged in the screen, is a common problem. Over time, the screen can wear down, and its effectiveness can decrease. Also, the vibratory mechanism in those models may require regular lubrication or maintenance.
Depending on the design, the separator’s screen may be the component that is prone to the most wear. Replacement screens are typically available. Keep the unit clean and lubricated if necessary.
Other Integral Elements
Beyond the core components, a Frankford Arsenal tumbler may have other parts that play crucial roles. An on/off switch, obviously, controls the power to the tumbler. The base or mounting hardware provides stability and support. Some advanced models might have a timer to control the length of the tumbling cycle.
Regularly inspect these elements, and, if you suspect a component may be failing, replace it promptly. Replacing any faulty component is essential for the safe and efficient operation of your tumbler.
The Path to Problem-Free Tumbling: Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Preventive maintenance is crucial for extending the life of your Frankford Arsenal tumbler and optimizing its performance. Regular cleaning is essential. After each tumbling session, empty the bowl and remove any excess media or dust. Use a brush or vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining debris from the interior of the bowl and any surrounding surfaces. Also, if you use wet tumbling solutions, ensure you dry the tumbler completely after each use to prevent corrosion.
Understanding the common problems and how to address them is crucial. If the tumbler isn’t spinning, first, check the power supply and then inspect the motor and the drive belt. A worn or broken belt is a frequent culprit. If the tumbler is unusually noisy, it may be due to worn bearings, a loose motor, or excessive friction between the components. Inspect all the components and tighten any loose screws. Also, make sure your tumbler is placed on a level surface. If the cleaning process is inefficient (i.e. brass is not cleaning properly), make sure you have sufficient media and that the media is not too old.
When handling and maintaining your Frankford Arsenal tumbler, prioritize safety. Always unplug the tumbler from the power source before performing any maintenance or repairs. Wear appropriate safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying media or dust. Be mindful of the potential for dust inhalation. Work in a well-ventilated area. Finally, when using chemical cleaning solutions, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and wear appropriate protective gloves.
Finding What You Need: Where to Purchase Frankford Arsenal Tumbler Parts
Acquiring the necessary Frankford Arsenal tumbler parts is a straightforward process, thanks to the widespread availability of these components.
The official Frankford Arsenal website is often the best starting point. This is the most reliable source for genuine Frankford Arsenal tumbler parts. Their website is a valuable resource for locating specific parts for your model. You can search by model number or by the name of the desired part.
A multitude of online retailers specializing in reloading supplies, such as Amazon, MidwayUSA, and Brownells, are also excellent options. They typically stock a wide variety of Frankford Arsenal tumbler parts and accessories.
Local gun shops and reloading supply stores are another reliable source for replacement parts. Support your local businesses, especially since they can offer personalized service and helpful advice.
To find the right parts quickly, be sure to have the model number of your Frankford Arsenal tumbler handy. This information is typically found on the unit itself or in the owner’s manual.
Choosing the Right Parts
Identifying your specific tumbler model is the first step towards finding the correct parts. Frankford Arsenal offers a range of tumbler models, and the parts are often specific to each. Next, ensure that the parts you are choosing are indeed compatible with your model.
Consider the use of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts versus aftermarket alternatives. OEM parts are manufactured by Frankford Arsenal and are designed specifically for their tumblers. Aftermarket parts may offer cost savings but may not have the same level of fit and quality as OEM components. When in doubt, choosing the OEM part is generally the best option.
The quality of Frankford Arsenal tumbler parts is an investment in the longevity and performance of your reloading process.
Bringing It All Together: The Importance of Maintenance
Frankford Arsenal tumbler parts, combined, are key to a successful reloading process, producing clean and accurate brass.
Regular maintenance is not a chore; it’s a crucial investment in the longevity and effectiveness of your reloading equipment.
Take a few minutes to inspect your Frankford Arsenal tumbler and address any worn or damaged parts promptly. This proactive approach will help ensure that your tumbler continues to function optimally, allowing you to produce high-quality ammunition consistently.
