Juicer Component Damage & Repair
1. I had my juice tray located incorrectly and bent the juice tray
Norwalk Juice trays through time and can become distorted or bent. This can be minimized by ensuring the proper placement when placed on the press plate. Solution:
A: Reshaping We have a service where we reshape your old juice tray. There is quite a cost savings and it will return your juice tray to its original shape. B: Replacement Replacement is also a viable option. Keep in mind that there are two different juice tray depths that Norwalk used through the years. Your juice tray will need to match the upper press plate depth. The shallower designs were used on the 275 and earlier models while the deeper design was incorporated in the later Norwalk 280 and 290 models. If upgrading to the newer deeper design is going to be done, make sure to purchase the upper deeper press plate.
2. I think I may have cracked the lower base plate
A cracked lower base plate on your Norwalk juicer is quite uncommon, but is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. Here's why: Structural Integrity: The base plate plays a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of your juicer. A crack compromises this integrity, potentially leading to misalignment of internal components and affecting juicing performance.
Safety Hazard: Depending on the severity of the crack, there's a risk of breakage even further during juicing operation. This could pose a safety hazard. Solution:
Stop Using the Juicer: Do not attempt to use the juicer with a cracked base plate. This could worsen the crack or cause further damage to internal components. Assess the Damage: Carefully inspect the crack. Here are some factors to consider: Leakage: Is there any leakage evident around the crack? Leakage indicates a more significant issue. Replacement vs. Repair: Unfortunately, repairing a cracked base plate on a Norwalk juicer is often not recommended. Replacement is usually the best option.
3. The press actuator lever has slipped or is out of alignment, how do I remedy the handle issue?
A press actuator lever that's slipped or misaligned can make operating your Norwalk juicer difficult. Over time, this screw could loosen, allowing the lever to slip or become misaligned. The solution is fairly simple.
Solution: Make sure the juicer is unplugged. Loosen the set screw: The press actuator lever has a set screw that secures it to the shaft. With the shaft in the closed, or the press up position, Position the handle in the 2 O'clock position and pull the handle out away from the juicer cover to assure the regulator shaft screw head is flush with the handle counterbore hole. Tighten the set screw. Do not over tighten because the shaft is hollow and could possibly collapse the hydraulic regulator shaft. If the misalignment persists or you're uncomfortable attempting these solutions yourself, consult one of our techs. They can diagnose the problem accurately and walk you through the process to keep your Norwalk juicer operating safely and efficiently.
4. What do I do if one of the four corner posts has popped loose?
A loose corner post on your Norwalk juicer is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. It can compromise safety and hinder proper juicer operation. Here's what you need to know: Potential Causes:
Improper Pressure Regulation: Excessive pressure on the press can cause the corner post to loosen or pop out completely. If the post comes loose, it's crucial to adjust the press regulator before replacing the post. Corrosion: The threaded area of the corner post can corrode due to dissimilar metal corrosion with acidic juices. This weakens the connection and can lead to the post becoming loose or completely popping out.
Damage Assessment: Before attempting repairs, it's essential to assess the damage: Upper Plate Threads: Check if the threads within the upper plate where the corner post screws in are stripped. Corner Post Damage: Inspect the corner post itself for any breaks or stripped threads. Repair Options: Corner Post Replacement: In most cases, replacing the corner post is necessary. However, this depends on the condition of the upper plate threads. Helicoil Insertion (if applicable): If the upper plate threads are stripped but not severely damaged, a qualified technician might be able to install a helicoil thread insert to restore the threads and allow for a new corner post. If you feel this is something you would like to attempt, contect one of our service techs and they will help you through it.
Additional Considerations: Upper Sheet Metal Removal: Installing a helicoil typically requires removing or pulling back the upper sheet metal for proper access. This is somewhat of a tricky task to perform without damaging the sheet metal skin. It can be done, but be careful. Safety First: Do not attempt to operate your juicer with a loose corner post. This can be dangerous and could further damage the machine.
5. The press plate guide rod has broken, bent or is missing.
The press plate guide rod plays a crucial role in your Norwalk juicer. It ensures smooth vertical movement of the press plate during juicing. Without a functional guide rod, the press plate could bind, move erratically, or allow the juice tray to engage with the upper press plate in a misaligned configuration. This may result in bending the juice tray or even worse possibly cause an unsafe condition.
What to Do: Stop Using the Juicer: Don't attempt to use the juicer with a broken, bent, or missing guide rod. This could damage other components or cause safety hazards.
Solution: Assess the Damage: Inspect the guide rod closely. Broken Rod: If the rod is snapped in two, it needs replacement. Bent Rod: A severely bent rod might need replacement, but a slight bend might be correctable (proceed with caution). Missing Rod: You'll need a replacement guide rod.
Replacement Options: Risks: Over-straightening or using excessive force can permanently damage the rod or compromise its structural integrity.
Alternatives: If you're unsure about repairing the bend yourself, replacing the guide rod is the safer option.
Replacing the Guide Rod:
Consult the Manual (if available): If you have your Norwalk juicer manual, refer to it for instructions on replacing the guide rod. This will provide specific steps for disassembly and reassembly. Online Resources: In the absence of a manual, you might find online resources like user forums or video tutorials from other Norwalk juicer owners that demonstrate the guide rod replacement process.
Qualified Technician: If you're not comfortable replacing the guide rod yourself, consider seeking help from a qualified appliance repair technician familiar with Norwalk juicers. They can replace the rod and ensure proper reassembly for safe and efficient juicing.
Important Note: A broken, bent, or missing press plate guide rod can significantly impact your Norwalk juicer's functionality and safety. Replacing the rod or seeking professional help is crucial to get your juicer back in working order.
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