how to build a tumbler

[quads]

hi i was wondering if anyone has built a tumbler to fit a large item like a 8cyl. header or close to it.or has plans on how to build one i would really be thankfull,is there any where to get cheap parts or maybe even a cheap tumbler? thank you

[engineerscott]

Re: how to build a tumbler

hi i was wondering if anyone has built a tumbler to fit a large item like a 8cyl. header or close to it.or has plans on how to build one i would really be thankfull,is there any where to get cheap parts or maybe even a cheap tumbler? thank you

Hummm, you guys may think I'm crazy but here's an idea that might work. What about using a small cement mixer (1.5 cubic ft) like the one that Harbor Freight sells. Look here:

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=90123

I think the plastic (poly) drum would actually help you for what you want to do (less likely to scratch your part as it rubs on the sides). You might want to glue in some high density foam rubber on the inside of the drum or maybe just change the tilt on the drum so it is more vertical. Throw in a 50 lbs bag of your favorite tumbler media and your part (one at a time probably), turn it on and let it go. I've actually seen these on sale at HF a few times for like $110.00. Not too bad for a big arse tumbler. Would probably require some experimentation but I think you might get it to work.

You might also want to look at the slightly bigger all metal mixers they sell. I'd think you definitly need to come up with some way to apply a thick elastic coating on the inside of the drum in order to avoid having the parts scratched as they contact the interior sides of the metal drum.