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Techniques for CollectorsB&I mfg

21st Nov 2004 05:43 UTCManny

I just recently got what looks to be like a 8 to 10 inch horizontal lap machine

at a yard sale. On one side it has a metal stamp that says Gem Maker by

B&I MFG. of Burlington Wis. The motor is shot but every thing else seems to

move freely. I was woundering if anyone out there might be familiar with this

brand and if the Co. is still around. You now like for spare parts and a manual.

7th Feb 2005 15:48 UTCChris van Laer

Manny:

This was once a very common machine sold through Sears & Roebuck; I believe it should only be a 6 inch diameter machine. If the motor is shot, you can get a used motor from an appliance repair shop, one from a washing machine for example. You will need a 1750 RPM motor (fairly standard) at a horsepower between 1/4 and 1/3 HP, plus one that operates on standard 120 Volts. This should be easy to get, as they are fairly common. The pulley on the motor should be about 2 to 2-1/2 inches in diameter, but you may want to check John Sinkankas' book on Gem Cutting for rim speeds & pulley diameters. I have one of these old units still, which is invaluable for polishing as the horizontal wheel will hold wet polishing compounds far better than those with vertical wheels. Also, you can unscrew the "nut" on the bottom of the shaft and add grease to the receptacle, in case it has not been done in a while.

12th Feb 2005 05:21 UTCJim

Does anyone know what happened to B&I?


What years were they around?


Thank you!

7th Mar 2005 02:38 UTCGeorge

B&I gem makers were around in the late 60's to the early 70's.I have several of these machines in both 6" and 10".I have manuals for both.If you are interested in a copy email me using the above subject title.But I need to know if it is the 6 or 10".Take a measurment from the center of the arbor where the wheels go on to the shortest distance to the outer case. George....

22nd Jan 2021 16:54 UTCMichael J Plitnick

George  ✉️

✉️
 Hi, I just joined and am looking at one of these to buy, I think its an 8", and has all the parts accept motor, What would I expect to pay if its in decent shape just need cleaning and how do I get a manual?

28th Jan 2021 20:11 UTCMichael J Plitnick

Thanks, Roger, I just got this 8" and it's in great shape, It came with a carbide wheel, I am guessing for rough grinding, Then 2 woodcut backings with foam-backed must be diamond ticky wheels, and then one felt wheel, , I would like to try cutting with a diamond saw blade, also, Is there a small backing plate I should use? Im gonna play around with this thing, I need to get the motor and mount it, but its in great shape, I also saw 8" diamond wheels in sets of 4 I think in diff grits, , Cant wait to get this going, lol. Thanks, I see they also made a faciter arm, I would love to find one, 

28th May 2021 17:32 UTCCynthia simmons

I just got what I think is a 6 inch B & I Gem Maker. I think all parts are here, but I don' have any of the wheels nor a manual. Do you know where I can find a manual? Also, would any wheel fit?

31st May 2022 15:58 UTCChris Peters

Is anyone still here that has a manual for the B&I machine?

31st May 2022 18:18 UTCKevin Conroy Manager

It may depend on which size.  Just do a Google search for what you want.

31st May 2022 18:43 UTCChris Peters

The only one online is at rockhounds and that website is down. I'm looking for an 8 inch manual 

10th Jun 2005 02:17 UTCKen Volin

George,

If you have a manual for a 10" B&I Gem Maker, I would appreciate it. I found one at a garage sale many years ago and have made some use of it but not as much as I would have liked. My kids are now starting to collect rocks and have become interested in it. A manual would be much appreciated.

Thanks,

Ken Volin

10th Jun 2005 02:50 UTCEd Ford

Im interested in a copy to a 6 inch B&I Gemmaker

23rd Jun 2005 13:27 UTCtrent

George, could I also get a copy of the lap machine (6").

I recently began teaching geology at a high school and they have a lap machine in poor condition. I have it up and running, but there are some parts that I can't seem to figure out if they belong to the unit or not. the manual would help alot so that the students can use it to polish up the rocks and mineral that they collect, cut and put on display.



Thank you for your time and help.



Trent Harrison

Earth Science Course Coordinator

Ridgefield High School

200 North Salem Rd

Ridgefield, CT 06877

203-438-3785 x 1306

tharrison@ridgefield.org

22nd Aug 2005 00:40 UTCEric Rothleutner

I am in great need of a manual for a 10" B&I gem maker.

prompt reply would be greatly appreciated,please e-mail the manual to this address ericjan@gwtc.net Thank you for your time:Eric Rothleutner

6th Jan 2006 04:11 UTCCarolyn

I just bought a 6" B&I gem maker and am also in need of a manual. If someone could send me a copy of the manual, I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks so much!


Carolyn

18th Jan 2006 13:45 UTCLarry Quinn

I am Intersted in a copy of the manual for this unit please contact me

8th Feb 2006 07:41 UTCLee Denton

George,


Certainly would appreciate a Copy of the Manual for a 10 inch B&I Gem Maker.

Many Thanks,


Lee

12th Feb 2006 21:24 UTCDick Downing

Hi George,

In your post you say you have several of the machines in 6" and 10" and the manuals. I just bought a Craftsman on Ebay. I think it is a 10". There is a rusty 1/4" thick 10" diameter steel plate on the shaft currently. The shaft does turn freely and without any noticable wobble. The center to closest side measurement is just over 5 1/2". If you have the actual machines are any of them for sale or available for parts? I need the manual also but there are some missing or badly pitted parts that I'd like to replace. Any assistance would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Dick

26th Mar 2006 03:52 UTCS Grills

I really would appreciate a copy of the manual for the 10" machine. If anyone can get me one, even if it is an electronic copy, I would be grateful and willing to pay a fair price for your services. Also, does anyone know if there was a facet head available for the machine?

27th Mar 2006 03:43 UTCSean Gerson

I also recently acquired a 6" gem maker from B&I. I've searched all the avenues and this seems like the most likely way to get the manual. I would really appreciate your help if possible.

smgerson@hotmail.com

30th Mar 2006 02:27 UTCRick Pochervina

Would it be possible to obtain the manual for the 6" Gem Maker from you.


Please let me know any fees associated.


Thanks,


Rick

8th Apr 2006 18:41 UTCShawna Vedders

I should be getting a 10 inch craftsman inheritided from my Great-Grandpa today when I get a good look at it and know for sure what it is I will want a manual for sure.


Happy to pay any cost associated with printing and mailing.


Thank you

Shawna

9th Apr 2006 03:46 UTCShawna Vedder

Hello George,


I've got a six inch craftsman gem maker. I don't have your email address to send you my address.


Thank You Shawnie

18th Apr 2006 02:38 UTCPaul Scott

I'm looking for the manual for the Craftsman B&I 6" Gem Maker too

did you ever get a copy?


If so any help in obtaining one would be appreciated.


Thanks - Paul


paul_d_Scott@yahoo.com

19th Jun 2006 02:58 UTCDoug

I have the 6 inch model. If anyone has the manual I would be happy to pay for a copy by mail or .pdf file. Thanks!


douge@650dialup.com

19th Jun 2006 02:59 UTCDoug

I have the 6 inch model. If anyone has the manual I would be happy to pay for a copy by mail or .pdf file. Thanks!


aghost2u@yahoo.com

27th Jun 2006 17:38 UTCClaude Flom

Hi,


I just received a 10" from a surplus store in fairly poor condition. Looks like it is missing some parts. I would like a copy of the manual, also, and would be very happy to pay for copying and shipping or for a scanned copy. Any help would be very much appreciated.


Thanks,

Claude

8th Jul 2006 19:07 UTCScott

I also would like to obtain a manual for a GemMaker 10". Thanks for your attention.

29th Jul 2006 18:46 UTCRalenda

Did ever find a manual for the 10" B&I gem maker?

If so where?

Can you copy and sell copy?

As you have guessed I have one and did a manual.

Thanks

28th Aug 2006 17:11 UTCalex paavola

if a pdf or other online manual for the 6" machine was availible I would be very greatful if you could email it my way. : ) thanks

24th Oct 2006 01:25 UTCCatherine

George Wrote:-----------------

> B&I gem makers were around in the late 60's to the

> early 70's.I have several of these machines in

> both 6" and 10".I have manuals for both.If you are

> interested in a copy email me using the above

> subject title.But I need to know if it is the 6 or

> 10".Take a measurment from the center of the arbor

> where the wheels go on to the shortest distance to

> the outer case. George....


Hi- I just purchased a used 6" gem maker- looks to have some parts missing- Does any one know if parts are available anywhere? Would it be possible to obtain a mnaual- I am new to this hobby. Thanks

MY Address Catherine Sapriken, 101 Chilcotin Rd. West, Lethbridge Ab T1K 7L8

25th Oct 2006 14:24 UTCCatherine

Hi George- I have recently obtained a 6" B&I Gemmaker- I don't think all of the parts sre with it. I am willing to purchase a copy of a manual from you if you have one. It looks to be a sturdy piece of equipment and having an original working diagram would be helpful in restoring it to working order. I am new to the hobby and would appreciate any help you could give me. - please email me a cost for a manual - many thanks- Catherine csaprike@telus.net

6th Nov 2006 18:33 UTCFrederick

Well it seems that I too am in the same situaton as I am in need of that manual for a six incher !!!


any help will be appreciated,


thanks,


Frederick


holsem@hotmail.com

18th May 2007 19:54 UTCscott bolshazy

I would love an ecopy or I will pay for a hard copy.


Please send to 343 gana ct. Henderson NV 89014

Include amount and return address so I can reimburse you for time and effort!


Thanks a million carats!

Scott

16th Jun 2007 16:18 UTCMark Abrams

I bought this at an auction (I don't know why). The auctioneer had no idea, called it a "thing". Can anyone tell what it is for, does it look complete, usable? Thanks and sorry to be such an ignoramus....

28th Jun 2007 03:30 UTCMarge K.

I have acquired a 6" Gem Maker in pretty good condition, but of course, missing the manual.


George, or any other lucky owner of a manual: if you still are willing to make copies, I'd love one. Please contact me and let me know what I owe you for the pdf file, your time, copies & shipping or whatever!


Thanks much.


Marge K.

14th Jul 2007 15:42 UTCrussell jardine

looking for rock scoops made by B&I MFG

19th Jul 2007 03:17 UTCbobby

dear sir;


thank you for posting the information about the b&i gem maker. i have a 10" unit and would love to have a user manual for it.


if you can provide a manual please let me know. i can receive fax, email and pdf. files.


thanks


bobby

3rd Aug 2007 21:03 UTCRick Villiger

Would it be possible to obtain the manual for the 6" Gem Maker from you.


Please let me know any fees associated.


Thanks,


Rick

4th Aug 2007 18:06 UTCGary Powers

I have a B. & I. Gem Maker that measures 6 in. from the arbor to the case. I am in need of a copy of the manual. An electronic copy would be great or a hard copy ether one. Will gladly pay for any expenses to reimburse your time and efforts.

My mailing address is Gary Powers - 82280 Hat Rock Rd. - Hermiston, Oregon 97838. e-mail is gar_pow@eotnet.net.

Thanks

Gary

25th Aug 2007 22:39 UTCTerry Ward

Hey George, Just wanted to say that I don't have a Gem Maker. So I won't be needing the 6" or the 10" manual.........Terry (Kentucky)

6th Sep 2007 04:32 UTCBoz

I was recently given a 10" B&I Gem Maker. It still runs ok and even has the facetor attachment and the instructions. It doesn't look like any dops came with it though... and they would have to be VERY thin to fit in the armature. Does this mesh with other folks experience? Also, the instructions indicate that the facetor head can be placed in the same slot used for the sawblade attachment... but I'm still not sure about that.


Any feedback is appreciated.

-Ryan Greensboro, NC jbosley(at)triad.rr.com replace (at) with the appropriate character.

12th Oct 2007 23:50 UTCKenneth McLemore

I also have a 6inch Gem Maker that I have had for many years. I have lost the manual.Would it be possible to email a copy to me.

26th Oct 2007 03:02 UTCDan Dunlap

We have a 6 in Gem Maker that our duaghter gots us. The problem is we have not been able to find a manual for it. We saw your message and would appreciate being able to get a copy. Let us know if there is a cost or what we can do for you. Thank you Dan and Pat Dunlap

26th Oct 2007 16:40 UTCLarry Whaley

Jim Wrote:

-------------------------------------------------------

> Does anyone know what happened to B&I?

>

> What years were they around?

>

> Thank you!


I would reall apricate a copy ot the manual you have for 10 in will gladly pay for copy and postage Thanks Larry.

31st Oct 2007 17:48 UTCJessee

Help me, Help me ! I need the manual for 6" CRAFTSMAN by B&I. It runs great, has a new wheel but I need instructions. Please advise of cost and I'll pay by Pay Pal, check, MO or whatever.

Thanks

28th Dec 2007 09:53 UTCGlenn Neff

Did anyone ever get copies of this manual? Has it been posted for download someplace??

I just got a 10" unit and it is lacking the attachments..rock carrige etc.


TIA

Glenn


George Wrote:

-------------------------------------------------------

> B&I gem makers were around in the late 60's to the

> early 70's.I have several of these machines in

> both 6" and 10".I have manuals for both.If you are

> interested in a copy email me using the above

> subject title.But I need to know if it is the 6 or

> 10".Take a measurment from the center of the arbor

> where the wheels go on to the shortest distance to

> the outer case. George....

29th Dec 2007 12:04 UTCManny

-- moved topic --

18th Feb 2008 03:43 UTCsshimatzki

I don't know if anyone still wants this... When I did a quick search for it, I found this thread, and I figured there are others looking for it also. So, For you reading enjoyment I present the B & I 6" Gem Maker Manual.


You can get it attached in this message, or if that doesn't still exist, find it here:


www.shimatzki.com/b&i-6inch-gem-maker.pdf


The above is my family website, so as long as I keep that going, you'll have access to it. (Slightly different name, but same file... just more web friendly)


Since The B & I Lapidary and Pottery Equipment is out of business, I will assume that there is no problems with it being reproduced in PDF Format here.

Anyone with information contrary to that, Please contact me to discuss it.


Enjoy

-Steve Shimatzki


PS.. Turned out a had a copy in the box of books that I got as a christmas present! How's that for fate!

8th Aug 2008 20:29 UTCJim Richards

I don't know if you still have the manual for the 6" gem maker. I just picked one up a couple of weeks ago. I can figure out most of the workings of this critter but would be nice to have a manual for it in any case. It just has the Craftsman label on the side and I did a search and turned up a Model 1401 Gem Maker by Sears. I just ordered blades for it. Already have polishing wheels and motor. Now just have to build platform and assemble. Any help would be appreciated.


Jim Richards

jrichards@owc.net

11th Aug 2008 03:50 UTCLarryB

Well, I seem to have a common story. Yesterday I picked up a ten inch Gem Maker at a garage sale. Have the unit, original diamond wheel and cast iron lap plate. Missing the other wheels but the rest of the unit is all there. Picked up a motor and St. Vincent de Paul today and got it running. Cutting is very slow so I am thinking that this original blade is about shot. Took two hours to cut through a rock (not sure what rock it is but is grainy like marble) that is about 3/4 inch thick by 1 1/4 wide. I was running at second blade speed which I guess to be 800 RPM. Now running faster (I guess about 1,200 RPM) and seems to be cutting a little faster as well, but still, I think a new blade is in order. My questions --


Any recommendations for blades that you guys have had success with? Do I bite the bullet and pay $$$ for the Lortone blade or are there better choices for the money?


Other supplies - Where do you get parts and where do you get your polishing compounds?


Good books?


I have a manual and original sales brochure. Anyone want PDF of either?


LarryB

11th Aug 2008 14:13 UTCDavid Von Bargen Manager

You might just want to post them as an attachment to a message on this thread to make them more readily available. There does seem to be an interest in them. (if they are over 1 meg let me know)

5th Oct 2008 23:01 UTCWarrendj

Hello All

I also am in need of an operators manual for a 10" B&I Gem Maker. Please help if you can. I'm also interested in a 10 " Lap wheel for the same. Are there any parts out there? Are there any facet heads floating around?

Thanks in advance!

wdjmack@aol.com


Warren

6th Oct 2008 10:03 UTCRay Hill Expert

Dumb question Larry, but did your unit have the water drip cup...if you haven't used a unit before, you might not know about the need for lubrication and wetting of the cutting edge of the diamond blade. If you do and you have had a fairly steady flow of water onto the blade and the cutting is still slow, then it may be either the blade has lost it's embedded diamonds, or that the material you are cutting is quite hard.. Mine had a weighted assembly with a stone vise, which pulled the stone against the blade...does yours...and if so, is the weight on the end heavy enough or are you doing this by hand?

Just a few thoughts ...

19th Nov 2008 01:49 UTCJohn Weber

I also have a 10" Craftsman, could I get an electronic manual pls??

12th Jan 2009 14:29 UTCpaul POMEROY

I am in need of a manual for the 10- inche gemmaker was wondering if you ever got one and if there is a way that I could also find one. Thanks.

3rd Feb 2009 04:32 UTCMaryann

I am looking for an owners manual on the 6" B & I. I have been "googling" trying to learn more about this unit I recently obtained but haven't used yet. I changed the belt in it (BADLY needed) but don't know what other "maintenance" things I should do before using it. Also, do you have any idea what these go for these days.

Thanks

Maryann

12th Feb 2009 15:07 UTCStephen Shimatzki

I don't know if people missed my post about 8 up, or if the attachment didn't work, but... Here's what your looking for, I've attached (again) the B&I manual for the 6". If someone has a manual for the 10" please feel free to post. In my experience, the 10" and the 6" are basically the same. The Facetting head I have seems to only be for the 6" and I have a 10", so I don't know if the manual for the 10" will cover anything different there.


Basically they are the same beast, just the 10" is wider. Concepts and uses are the same so the 6" manual is a great place to start.


As for location of replacement laps, I'd say Kingsley North: www.kingsleynorth.com But I'm biased because they are pretty close to me and shipping is fast. (one state north)


I've been using the following, I got an Inland 8" Master Lap for the base ($19.95). If you want to polish, use the same master lap with some 8" Ameritool flexable pads or similar. 1200Grit = $35, 3000Grit = $35 You could also get the flat diamond laps if you needed: 8" 100mesh Diamond disc (74.95) and 8" 600 mesh diamond disc ($49.95) and that covers your basic grinding. I have a regular highland park unit that I use for grinding and only use my B&I as a flat lap for final smoothing and polishes. This is all on my 10" B&I... You'll want to use smaller for the 6', and also these are suggestions for durability type use, you can use other products but in similar manners.


Actually, before I switched it over to Diamond, I had my "master laps" made from plywood that another Rock Club Member had previously made and gave to me when they heard I had it. I used those wood masters with foam circle and then a wet/dry silicaCarbide sanding paper. (sandwich the foam between the wood and the paper, use a little rubber cement to hold them together) That was VERY in expensise, and worked great. I made some awsome cabs on that. And I coiuld get the SilicaCarbide paper @ the local hardware store, nothing fancy other than it was wet/dry use so the paper held up. The only down side was the spead that the 600grit paper wore down to 1200grit... and my 1200 would ware down to about a 3000grit... So I kept having to re make the different laps. I even started putting foam on two sides and labeling the edges of the wood with dates so that I knew I had an "old" 600 and a "new" 600... if the 600 wasn't cutting right, I'd just flip to the "new" to save time and redo the lap at a later date. I would of kept using it this way, but I wanted to try the diamond approach for consistancy reasons.

12th Feb 2009 15:48 UTCAnonymous User

Stephen,


Thanks for the download. My wife is an eBay seller (just a note to some posters: she's an honest seller) who buys at estate sales, auctions and thrifts. We picked up my Gem Maker up at an auction last spring along with an old trim saw and about 20lbs. of various rock and tumbled stone. She was looking into resale, but then saw my fascination and decided it would be good for me to have a hobby, lol. I won't go into how I've misused this thing with grinding discs not meant for it, but I've been trying to build up the cash to buy some good quality discs.


In looking into discs, I've seen the inexpensive adhesive backed discs that you apply to a master lap and of course the Inland diamond discs. Quite a price variation. I know that generally you get what you pay for. Which comes out cheaper in the long run.


Thanks

22nd Mar 2009 14:23 UTCStephen Shimatzki

Rock Bear...


It really is a matter of work for you... You "invest" in a diamond lap (fexible on a master lap, etc...) and you have less work than if you use the "cheap" old school method of Silicon Carbide Grit paper over a plywood or wood master lap... The paper wears down fast and you are constantly regluing paper to your mast lap units... That results in more downtime and hassle and chance of errors. (torn paper, etc...) The diamond flex pads over a master lap will last much longer if properly cared for and such... Obviously there is a HUGE price difference, but then you have to put a price on your time. (Really, a B&I machine is 1/4 as usable as an arbor with 4 seperate wheels on it, but that is another story completely.)


Like I had stated, I started with the cheap method and gradualy moved to the the diamond once I knew more about what I was doing, etc... I still have all my old laps and paper, but haven't put one together in a long time. The nice thing about the cheap method is cost of errors. :) If I gouged a section of the Silicon Carbide Paper, no worries, just glue up a new one... If it was a Diamonda disc, ouch! Thats a $ mistake.


So, take this information for what it is worth, and apply it to your own situation.


My last piece of advice is always to find a rock club near you... The experience and hands on learning that you get from the "Ol' Timers" will be more valuable than re-inventing the "wheels"... Besides... Most have nice shops that save hundreds/thousands of Dollars in equipment cost of you buying it on your own.

16th Jun 2009 01:04 UTCVernon

George Wrote:

-------------------------------------------------------

> B&I gem makers were around in the late 60's to the

> early 70's.I have several of these machines in

> both 6" and 10".I have manuals for both.If you are

> interested in a copy email me using the above

> subject title.But I need to know if it is the 6 or

> 10".Take a measurment from the center of the arbor

> where the wheels go on to the shortest distance to

> the outer case. George....


I have B&I gem maker and in need of a manual.

From center of arbor, it measures 5".5"+.

The blade that was on it when I purchased it measures 9".75"

Thanks for any help you can give me,

Vernon Pike

My E-mail is vernon-pike@msn.com

16th Jun 2009 01:34 UTCVernon Pike

I send out an e-mail I believe to George earlier, then I registered and now I am resending. I do not know if the first one went through or not.


I have B&I gem maker and in need of a manual.

From center of arbor, it measures 5".5"+.

The blade that was on it when I purchased it measures 9".75"

Thanks for any help you can give me,

Vernon Pike


My E-mail is vernon-pike@msn.com

16th Jun 2009 03:39 UTCVernon Pike

I have B&I gem maker and in need of a manual for the 10".


My e-mail vernon-pike@msn.com

19th Jul 2009 00:56 UTCSteveK

I'm in need of a manual for a Craftsman 1401 Gem Maker.


Please assist if you can - tregra99 {at} netzero {dot} net

9th Sep 2009 15:43 UTCAnonymous User

I would like a copy of the instructions for a 10 inch gemmaker.

cdbakken@lakedalelink.net

Thanks for the help.


I was wondering if anyone had found a good source for a replacement 10 saw blade with the correct arbor size to fit the 10 inch gemmaker?

9th Aug 2010 02:11 UTCDennis McGill

Where can I get rid of this - The Gem Maker has a 6" wheel (see pic). There is an electric motor with it but not mounted together. I have another piece of gem equiptment that has a brass looking disk on it with an electric motor mounted to spin it. I know nothing about this sort of stuff. Thank You in Advance, Dennis


Dennis McGill

1701 Hardy Drive

Edmond, OK 73013


Phone: 405-341-0133


E-Mail: dmcgill1@cox.net

6th Jan 2011 22:23 UTCElden John

I recently purchased one of these old 10 inch units. It appears to be in good repair except for a motor which I can pick up with no problem. However, I would be interested in getting an operating manual to go with it. Also a picture of the complete set up unit if available.

Thank you.

Elden John

13th Feb 2011 17:27 UTCPete Clein

A while ago I purchased a 10" Craftsman B&I Gem Maker at a flea market. It is mounted in a wood cabinet along with the motor and some storage space - all hooked up and runs like a champ! Not bad for $25 bucks. It just has one plate and no other attachments I did however find a water cup for it and got everything all cleaned up. I can figure how it works although any leads on a manual would be fantastic. Even more so as just this week I found another 10" unit (with most of the attachments) and I'm in the process of getting it cleaned up.


It looks like this is the place (the only one I have found) that folks talk about these older units. And again any leads on an instruction booklet or manual would be great.


Thanks,


Pete

22nd Feb 2011 12:45 UTCCatherine

Hi Everyone, I have an instruction manual for a 10 in B& I Gem Maker. I am in Canada, but for the cost of photocopying and mailing I'll gladly send it on. I have 6 printed pages of instructions and a further 6 full size colour photos on how to set it up. Let me know, you can reach me by my email cmacneil@bellaliant.net Thanks

23rd Apr 2011 17:47 UTCsusan

I bought the 10" model 1422 and have the papers but need photos of the thing assemble and setup with the motor attached. Does anyone have some to share? Thanks so much.

1st Oct 2011 21:13 UTCJim Haight

Hello, LarryB,

Yes, I'd like a pdf copy of the 10" Gem Maker manual. Thanks in advance.

4th Jun 2012 20:24 UTCZori Cohen

Hi,

I just won a sears craftsman 6 inch gem maker. I was wondering if you have a copy of the instructions.

Thanks

5th Jun 2012 20:36 UTCZori Cohen

HI,

I just bought a sears craftsman gem maker 6 on ebay but it does not have a manual. Do you have the manual for this machine?

Thanks,

Zori

zbc53@comcast.net

6th Jun 2012 20:36 UTCZori Cohen

Hi,

I just bought a sears craftsman gem maker six from ebay but it has no manual. Do you have the manual? if so can you email me a copy or else send it via snail mail.

Thanks,

Zori Cohen

zbc53@comcast.net

4010 SW Vacuna Street

Portland, Oregon 9721

greatly appreciated

7th Jun 2012 19:33 UTCZori Cohen

George,

I just bought a sears gemmaker six from ebay. Was wondering if you still have the manual? If so, email me and I'll give you my address.

Thanks,

Zori

20th Oct 2012 16:16 UTCChuck Fross

If you still have a manual for the 6" B&J gem maker, I would really appreciate a copy. Please let me know.


Chuck

24th Jun 2014 19:02 UTCBob

I recently acquired a 6 inch Gem Maker and am in desperate need of a manual as several parts are missing. If anyone has one, I would be glad to pay you for a Xerox copy. Please let me know how much.


Thanks for your help.


Bob

21st Aug 2014 21:41 UTCJoelK.

Hi All,

I have the 6" gem maker with the faceting head. Is there any instructions on how to set this up and the process used on this particular machine? I have the instructions I downloaded from this forum, there are at least 4 or 5 postings of the PDF so anyone can download them. But not one of those pdf's contains anything about the faceting attachment and how its set up or used. It appears I will have to make some modifications to the faceting head as the diameter of the dop stick holder is not standard, its only a slight amount and I hope I don't destroy the whole unit. I have a very nice drill press that I hope will do a perfect job. Any help with the setup and use of the faceting unit would be greatly appreciated.


Thanks,

Joel

28th Aug 2014 20:47 UTCTravis Hetsler

If your blade is not cutting very fast it may be "glazed over", meaning the metal the diamonds are embedded in has melted over them due to heat build up over time. You can "dress" the blade by making several cuts into silicon carbide blocks or old silicon carbide grinding wheels to remove the built up metal and expose fresh diamonds.


Cheers!!!



Ray Hill Wrote:

-------------------------------------------------------

> Dumb question Larry, but did your unit have the

> water drip cup...if you haven't used a unit

> before, you might not know about the need for

> lubrication and wetting of the cutting edge of the

> diamond blade. If you do and you have had a fairly

> steady flow of water onto the blade and the

> cutting is still slow, then it may be either the

> blade has lost it's embedded diamonds, or that the

> material you are cutting is quite hard.. Mine had

> a weighted assembly with a stone vise, which

> pulled the stone against the blade...does

> yours...and if so, is the weight on the end heavy

> enough or are you doing this by hand?

> Just a few thoughts ...

16th Dec 2014 22:35 UTCGuy

New to this thread. Just got a 6 inch gem maker with facet head. Looking for instructions on the head. I have gem maker manual that doesn't cover facet head. Thanks.

18th Dec 2014 16:09 UTCConnie

Hey George,


I don't know if you still have a manual. I am looking for B & I Gem Maker flat lap 6" manual. Have to replace the bearing, need something to go by. Thank you in advance.


Connie

21st Jan 2016 23:20 UTCVickie

I just purchased one from an older couple. I have it in pieces hoping to talk to someone about putting it together.
 
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