Thumler's Tumbler Model B Hi-speed Drive Belt - O-Ring Equivalent Size

[Bayou52]

Hi, All -

From a previous post, I noted that I was having problems with Thumler's Tumbler Model B Hi-speed belts breaking all too frequently. The replacement belts are $5-$6 a pop, so this was getting expensive. I went on the search for the equivalent o-ring size in hopes of getting both a cheaper and longer lasting belt.

I measured a new replacement belt and researched the matter. It appears the standard sized o-ring that corresponds with the Thumler's belt size is o-ring number .343 with the following dimensions:

O-ring Size: 3 3/4"ID X 4 1/8"OD X 3/16"CS

I ordered several ethylene propylene o-rings in this size. I'm told this composition resists stretching. They were 80 cents apiece. After my first tumble today using these o-rings, I can report they fit perfectly on my tumbler and works no different than the replacement belt.

Time will tell how long this o-ring will last with continous use, but I'm going to find out. I have a hunch it won't be any worse than the actual replacement belts, and hopefully, will be much better. This for sure - they are certainly much cheaper.

I hope this info helps. I haven't seen this equivalent size info posted anywhere else.

Bayou52

 

[Cajun Chooter]

may I ask where did you order the belts from ?

tia

 

[Sigforty]

How much tumbling do you do? I am still on my original belt, but may have to grab some of those o-rings for backup.

 

[Bayou52]

may I ask where did you order the belts from ?

tia

Sure, here's the link to the o-rings that substitite as drive belts for the Thumler's Model B high-speed tumbler:

http://www.theoringstore.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=367_150_152&products_id=6511

Also, shipping was very prompt -

Bayou52

 

[Bayou52]

How much tumbling do you do? I am still on my original belt, but may have to grab some of those o-rings for backup.

I never could figure why my drive belts were bresking so frequently. Getting only 4 or 5 tumbling sessions (4 hour sessions) from these belts. Nothing seems out of sorts- bushings lightly lubed with no excess anywhere, pulleys aligned straight, no burs on the drive pulley, drum running at 13 pounds (2 pounds under capacity), no excess wobbles anywhere, etc. So, the belts should be lasting longer, but they were not. Got tired of replacing them at $5-$6 a pop.

So far, the 80 cent o-rings have outlasted the replacement belts.

Bayou52