Quick advice needed

platekiller · Jan 8, 2014

So I bought a timer to plug my tumbler into, but the packaging warns not to plug into an extension cord. I was going to tumble in the shed because of the lead. The outlet is outside so no go plugging into that. I have a good extension cord I use for my drill. Am I ok to run this setup or should I rethink it and forget the timer?

montoya32 · Jan 8, 2014

Why do you need a timer? Why can't you tumble when you are able to turn it off in a certain amount of time?

platekiller · Jan 8, 2014

Was going to set it tonight before bed. I don't normally have 2 hours or more of reloading time. I saw in another thread that someone uses a timer and thought that was a good idea.

Benanov · Jan 8, 2014

platekiller said:
So I bought a timer to plug my tumbler into, but the packaging warns not to plug into an extension cord. I was going to tumble in the shed because of the lead. The outlet is outside so no go plugging into that. I have a good extension cord I use for my drill. Am I ok to run this setup or should I rethink it and forget the timer?

Check the power draw of your tumbler. It might be that most extention cords can't handle the power transfer and will overheat, hence the recommendation to not use one. My vacuum cleaner's power cord (the STOCK cord) heats up after moderate use.

A timer is a very good idea if you can get one.

Ungermc · Jan 8, 2014

I think if you use an extension cord of sufficient gauge for the current draw you should be ok.

platekiller · Jan 8, 2014

The timer says not to use with extension cord. I have used the tumbler with one before with no issue.

platekiller · Jan 9, 2014

The tumbler is an rcbs vibratory case tumbler. It says on it that it pulls 0.78 amps (or 0.73 can't remember). I think with the timer rated at 15 amps and a heavy extension cord it should be ok. I think they just don't want people plugging it into a flimsy indoor extension cord. Just want to double check I'm not being stupid. The timer is a dual outlet one.

Flipz · Jan 9, 2014

I know it doesn't really answer your question but they do make outdoor timers.

Biggfoot44 · Jan 9, 2014

For myself , I would feel confident doing so with a cord of sufficient rating.

While it seems a worthwhile idea , I haven't gotten around to doing so. On those occasions I forgot or fell asleep , I just had a batch of really shiny brass.

Pinecone · Jan 9, 2014

1) A GOOD extension cord.

2) An extension cord with a ground (3 prong plug and socket).

I think they are afraid of someone using a cheap 2 wire cord and getting shocked.

tony b · Jan 9, 2014

Use heavy outdoor extortion cord and you should be ok

platekiller · Jan 9, 2014

Pinecone said:
1) A GOOD extension cord. 2) An extension cord with a ground (3 prong plug and socket). I think they are afraid of someone using a cheap 2 wire cord and getting shocked.

Both conditions met. That's what I was thinking about the two prong.

tony b said:
Use heavy outdoor extortion cord and you should be ok

My thoughts too.

I guess I shall give it a try in the next couple days.

Vic · Jan 9, 2014

Monitor it the first time using, if no problem then you are fine. As long as it is a good cord you should be okay. I seen no difference in running 12 gauge wire and a box vs. running a 12 gauge extension cord.

Vic

Doug S · Jan 9, 2014

Biggfoot44 said:
For myself , I would feel confident doing so with a cord of sufficient rating.

While it seems a worthwhile idea , I haven't gotten around to doing so. On those occasions I forgot or fell asleep , I just had a batch of really shiny brass.

I agree on both counts, though I know I've reduced the life of my medium from repeatedly doing this...

Traveler · Jan 9, 2014

I use this unit with my Thumlers Model B. The timer is rated up to 1000W. More than enough. A good quality 15A three prong extension cord should be fine. The manual was probably written by lawyers.

http://www.amazon.com/Woods-Import-Digital-Countdown-Timer/dp/B001DD7YSE/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1389275339&sr=8-6&keywords=ac+timer

byf43 · Jan 9, 2014

platekiller said:
So I bought a timer to plug my tumbler into, but the packaging warns not to plug into an extension cord. I was going to tumble in the shed because of the lead. The outlet is outside so no go plugging into that. I have a good extension cord I use for my drill. Am I ok to run this setup or should I rethink it and forget the timer?

Instant fix - Bring the tumbler into the house and set it up.

No worries about lead from the tumbler.
I've been tumbling brass weekly, since 1982 and it hasn't affected me, yet...... yet...... yet.......

Only small memory lapses.

:innocent0

platekiller · Jan 9, 2014

byf43 said:
Instant fix - Bring the tumbler into the house and set it up. No worries about lead from the tumbler. I've been tumbling brass weekly, since 1982 and it hasn't affected me, yet...... yet...... yet....... Only small memory lapses.

Not worried about me, but my 21 month old. My bench is in the basement separated from his play area by a gate. I haven't really been tumbling due to this so I figured the timer would help me out.

byf43 · Jan 9, 2014

platekiller said:
Not worried about me, but my 21 month old. My bench is in the basement separated from his play area by a gate. I haven't really been tumbling due to this so I figured the timer would help me out.

I kinda figured that there was a little one involved.

My sick sense of humor over-rode any common sense that I once had.
I mean, I even rode a bicycle, as a kid..... without wearing a helmet!!

All kidding aside, though, I've been loading/tumbling/reloading with babies/toddlers in the house, since day 1.
The lead aspect is so small, I THINK it's a non-issue. (Read as I've never paid attention to any studies on reloading near babies.)

Biggfoot44 · Jan 9, 2014

Only a concern if they eat the bullets or primers. ( Excluding casting )

tomandjerry00 · Jan 9, 2014

What is the problem with tumbling brass for prolonged periods of time? Just wear on the tumbler/media?

I've forgot I was tumbling a few times and ended up letting the brass go over night or longer, but nothing seems to be worse for it?

Quick advice needed

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