TEMCo Auto Sharpener - User Review Thread

[Philbert]

Took it to a GTG



Took the FP1000 the Iowa GTG this weekend. Due to the weather, we spent a lot of time inside, and the grinder got a lot of notice. I set it up with some 'practice' chain, and posted my version of the 'Quick Start' guide on the work bench. The grinder was out for more than a day, and I gave a number of 'guided tours', but no one asked to operate it themselves, or to try and sharpen their own chains.

In fairness, the GTG crowd is often more focused on race chain, with lots of 'secret sauce' angles, hand filers, etc. I tried to solicit initial comments (generally positive) before answering any questions, to avoid potentially biasing perspectives on it. And, since I already had the practice chains 'dialed in', I probably made things look easy, as I walked through the Quick Start guide.

We did experience a couple of 'hiccups'. One where the grinding wheel seemed to randomly come down and hack off more of one cutter than all of the others. Maybe the chain hung up slightly when pushed, then jerked forward a bit when released? When using a manual grinder, I pull the chain back against the positioning dog / pawl to positively position each cutter. On the FP1000 the positioning arm retracts before the grinding head lowers. Might have to do with when the clamp grabs the drive link?

A second issue was the grinding head failing to lower occasionally on one loop; happened to be only on Left hand cutters, but not all. These practice chains were worn back to (or close to) their witness marks. Perhaps the proximity sensor read this as 'no cutter', but enough was present to allow the pusher arm to advance the chain?

Just speculating here on both of these. Hopefully @GunTemco can provide some insight.

Philbert.

 

[GunTemco]

Hm, that is odd. Just a quick question: I notice in the photo that you provided that the chain weight isn't also photographed. Are you using the chain weight during operation?

 

[Philbert]

I notice in the photo that you provided that the chain weight isn't also photographed. Are you using the chain weight during operation?

Yeah. Forgot to set the chain weight in place for a few photos.

(Was waiting to see how long it would take sometimes notice!).

Philbert

 

[Philbert]

Philbert's Summary - Part 1

I like the idea of an automatic chain grinder: it should save time and increase cutter consistency. I am really impressed that TEMCo was able to develop and produce this model for the price that it is offered at. Looking 'under the covers', the design is both clever and elegantly simple.

Comments posted in these threads have provided the company with a lot of invaluable feedback, advice, and suggestions from a dedicated group of chainsaw users and potential customers. E.g. this type of device should cover the full range of common, consumer saw chains, including:
· 1/4 inch to full-sized 3/8 pitch chain;
· 0.043 to 0.063 gauge chains; and
· skip tooth chains, or at least the extra space common on many odd length loops.

'Automatic', of course, means that it runs unattended once set up. This is not, "Alexa: sharpen my chain!" technology. A user still needs to understand what a properly sharpened chain looks like, and how to set the controls, in order to get satisfactory results.

TEMCo generously provided a unit for evaluation in these forums. For reference, no one else asked to participate in this review, per the guidelines posted. In fairness, the company's offer of a 'one-year satisfaction warranty, with shipping paid both ways' on eBay is, perhaps, a better offer.

I hope that others who try and use this product share their comments, experiences, and recommendations in these threads. I also hope to continue using and evaluating it further, and to take it to other events for folks to try. Longer-term feedback can only come from extended use.

An evaluation of the product really falls into 2 categories: the product itself, and how it compares to other chain grinders or sharpening methods.

Philbert

 

[Philbert]

Philbert's Summary - Part 2

Overall, the TEMCo FP100 feels like a well made and well finished product. The design is compact and the packaging is very professional. Many photos are posted earlier in these threads. The manual feels a bit more like a work in progress.

Use of the grinder was not intuitive for me, however a series of YouTube videos were very helpful to understand basic operations. Familiarity came with use. This might vary with the type of previous sharpening experience a user has. I have sent the company many comments, beyond those that I have included in these threads, and continue to send updates, occasionally.

A key set up issue I had was with the 'Length' and 'Pitch' knobs. Because these adjustments are mechanically related, and the design allows the knobs to be rotated past the limits of having any effect, it is confusing when adjustments apparently make no difference, or when they have disproportionate or unintended results. Cutting viewing 'windows' to see what these knobs actually do was a big help for me, but something I still have to think about.

The 'bubble buttons' on the digital display panel also have a learning curve, since they are multi-functional: hold them a little too long and they do something else. Periodically, I have to turn the power 'Off' and start over.

The 'Depth' knob is pretty straightforward. However, the cam-operated, gravity feed of the grinder head sometimes made this confusing, when the wheel would not travel as far as desired; this turned out to primarily be an issue with the grinding wheels.

In my mind, the wheels of a grinder are analogous to the chain on a saw: their quality and condition are critical for good performance. The red/brown, fine grit, vitreous, OEM grinding wheels cut well when new, but soon became glazed, even though I routinely clean chains before sharpening. They were also challenging to dress, compared to conventional grinding wheels. Glazed wheels, in turn prevent the head from grinding to the desired depth during the programmed cycle time, resulting in inconsistent cutters.

Eventually, I was able to learn how to dress the wheels appropriately; this is information that should be included in the instructions. The optional CBN wheels have performed well, during the limited time that I have tried them. Because they are offered in 2 widths (1/8" and 3/16") it is also easier to get good cutter profiles for a variety of chain pitches in a single pass.

Changing wheels should be more convenient, as this is required for different pitch chains (with the CBN wheels) and when adjusting depth gauges. The small screws securing the guard require a lot of turns, and are very easy to lose.

With some practice and experimentation, I was able to sharpen cutters, clean out gullets, and get acceptable chains. If starting with a hand filed chain, it may take a few passes to 'even up' the cutters: after than, maintaining edges with the sharpener is easier.

The FP1000 could be a good choice for a saw user seeking to sharpen edges dulled from normal use; who runs a limited number of chain pitches; who is satisfied with conventional cutter profiles; who is technology minded; or just appreciates the automated function. Frankly, it is kind of fun to watch, once you have it 'dialed in'.

This grinder is for personal use: it is not the unit to start a chain sharpening business with. It would not be as good of a choice for users demanding custom angles or cutter profiles; for those restoring 'rocked' or damaged chains; or for those not comfortable with technology.

Philbert

 

[Philbert]

Philbert's Summary - Part 3

Hand filing chains requires some knowledge, skill, and experience for proficiency. Grinders generally produce more uniform cutters, and are faster when a lot a material needs to be removed. In fairness, it takes some knowledge, skill, and experience to become adept using most grinders as well.

Inexpensive, manual chain grinders can improve cutter edges with standard angles, but often have limited power. Other automated chain grinders cost more than my first few cars! It is most fair, therefore, to compare the FP1000 to other grinders in a similar price range.

The Oregon / Tecomec style grinders generally have more powerful motors and larger diameter wheels. Depending on the model, most offer a greater range of angle options for custom cutter profiles, especially 'hook' angles, for those who desire those options, and understand how to set them up.

With the right wheels, these manual grinders will work on any (round ground) chain. They have the power to grind away a lot of material when fixing a damaged cutter, or re-profiling a chain. Incremental adjustments are somewhat intuitive (e.g. turning a knob slightly lets you see the cutter or wheel move a similar amount).

Even though a few models have 'automatic' clamping mechanisms, grinding with them is a highly repetitive, mundane task. So, if the additional capabilities are not required, an automated grinder could be very attractive, and the TEMCo is the only automated grinder currently offered in this price range.

Greater control or automated operation? Few people in these threads have just one chainsaw: no reason why they can only have one way to sharpen chains!

Philbert

 

[GunTemco]

I just wanted to say thank you to everyone at OPE that has been part of this process. I truly value making sure I get products out there that people enjoy using. Regarding the FP1000, we are able to clearly see where the product does well, but also where its lacking.

Criticism is a catalyst for change and improvement.

Our mistakes and design issues are reasons to make changes and improvements, not to give up on the product nor our customers. We humbly ask that everyone not give up on TEMCo Industrial, either. To the many who are already satisfied with the product, we thank you and aim to continue to deliver you great products and top tier customer service. To those who have yet to try our products for the various limitations and concerns, please stick with us - we're currently work on getting you a product you'll enjoy at a price that wont break the bank.

Once again, on behalf the whole team here at TEMCo Industrial, thank you for all your comments. They have not fallen on deaf ears, and we're in development of new designs and improvements. So long as you continue to give us feedback, we will continue to improve. Thank you so much for your time, and we're honored that you guys have chosen to bring us into your shops.

 

[Philbert]

Please keep us 'in the loop' for a Gen 2 chain sharpener!

Philbert

 

[RI Chevy]

They need to out you on the payroll Phil. Lol

 

[Stump Shot]

Decided to get one of these units and give it a go, Fedex man dropped it off the other day I purchased cbn wheels at the same time and they made it three days earlier.
Once it was all here I mounted it to the bench and threw a take off chain in it to test it out.

 

[Stump Shot]

Tried with the wheel with the radius just below the cutter first.

 

[Stump Shot]

Then I took the same chain and dropped the wheel to the bottom of the gullet.

 

[Stump Shot]

This was much improved and the cutters look like some chains when new, like Raisman for example.

 

[Stump Shot]

I eventually got it mounted to the grinder stand as it does make a bit of a mess on the bench.

 

[Stump Shot]

Some dislikes, the chain kept climbing out of the brass weight. I finally had enough and chucked it in the lathe and removed the bur lip and gave it a touch of a radius.

 

[Stump Shot]

The raker gauge doesn't fit well in the slot for it without some persuasion.
Think I might have a better way to get the depth set without this tool anyways, so I am not too bothered about it.

 

[Stump Shot]

This is the most concerning problem, the angle markings are absolutely unreadable. Wonder if a sticker can be made for here. @GunTemco

 

[Stump Shot]

If I had to be picky I would say that the only other thing I can think of to change would be the knob adjustments, they could stand to be a little finer.

 

[Stump Shot]

Over all am very happy with the results and I can sharpen while doing other tasks or sharpen faster by using my other grinder to do rakers while the Temco does the teeth.

 

[RI Chevy]

Nice Steve.
The 2nd cut definitely looked better. Bottom of the gullet.
How do this auto sharpener compare to your hand file? As far as cutting speed/ability and overall sharpness?