whatwheel

I also have had problems with the Top Flite magnetic balancer, i am not new to this hobby but getting back in after 20 yr. absence.
I am also very mechanically inclined and read and reread the instructions, i have a Tru Turn 2 3/4 spinner and a APC13-8 prop.

Problem,
Rotate cones item changes position, this will drive you up the wall.

Have tried,

Checked rod as per book, looks ok.
Rotated rod with just cones , they stop at random positions.
Tried mags. with the plastic disk on them and polished.
Checked to see that cones were properly seated in item on rod.
Put light oil on mags.
Checked clerance between mag. and rod.
Checked ends of rod as per book, looked ok.

With heavy items like prop,back plate and spinner on balancer ,
the rod will float and the item will freely turn and stop at what you would think was the heavy point, but just twist the cones and it is a new ball game.

There just does not seem to me that there is not enough mass with just the cones on the rod to get a good balance test on them.
Just for fun ??? i balanced an old prop on this unit by adding thick ca. and not moving the cones, got it balanced dead on, then moved the cones and lost the balance a good bit.

I like the theory of this balancer and would like to find out whats wrong.
Thanks for any help, GLENN.