I have a press that was damaged during moving, part of the diaphragm assembly came loose. Any ideas where I can find info on repairing or replacing (note the diaphragm does not have any holes). Also, separate question:- Is it OK to store heavy item on top of these machines, or has anyone build a tabletop.
I agree with MnSue, speak to Wendy at D & K. She has been working with these presses and even teaching as the WCAF show how to operate these presses. If anyone has an answer to your diaphragm problem she will.
"As far as storing heavy items on top of these machines" - this is right out of the Bienfang manual "Double-Duty Top: Specially constructed heavy-duty flat top doubles as a work or storage space when the press is not in use"
Like Neil said, I would not store heavy items on the press but if they are light I don't believe it would be to much of a problem. I use my press, when not dry-mounting, as a fitting table. Perfect height and nice and large. I've been doing that for many years and have never had a problem, but I also keep my press maintained per the instructions put out by Bienfang/Seal.
As far as Neil saying :
I even put small blocks under the edge of the lids to prop up the lid just slightly to allow the edge seals to expand and relax when we're not using the press. Some people leave their lid clamped down even when they're not using it and this is a mistake.
Also in the Bienfang/Seal Owner's Manual : "Turn the Power Breaker OFF and keep the press in the closed position when not in use."
I'm not going to say Neil is wrong but again, I follow instructions set forth by the company that manufactured these presses. I keep my press closed and latched when not in use. Again, in the many years I have been using it I have yet to have a problem. The only issue I have ever had is that my vacuum pump burned out after about 15 years of use. By keeping the lid closed and latched you are preventing dust particles from getting inside and doing damage to the item you are drymounting. Again, I'm not say Neil is wrong only that I follow the instructions.
By the way, I know that D & K bought out Bienfang but I don't have their manual so I will follow the manual that I do have. Joe