Big Kick won't crank

[pressed4time]

My Big Kick by Sizzex worked fine for a year or two and then started getting hard to crank. Now it won't turn at all. Of course I no longer have the receipt from Michael's.

I called Ellison and one of their service reps. said it was probably the crank shaft (the part the handle attaches to), so I ordered that part, took the darn thing apart, and replaced it. Still doesn't turn. I am waiting for a reply from Ellison as to what to try next.

Has anyone else had this problem with the Big Kick or Big Shot? I have soooo many dies and need my machine!
Lynn

[pressed4time]

My son came today and got my Big Kick working! He took the new crank shaft gear out and discovered some of the bearings in the metal pipe thing the crank shaft fits into had become dislodged. In fact, one of the bearings fell out and he was not able to get it back in.

Even with one of the bearings missing, the crank shaft began turning. He put it all back together and it seems fine for the time being. Eventually, I may have to replace the bearing assembly. I sure hope I can get by for now.

So if anyone has trouble turning the handle on the Bid Shot or Big Kick, check the crank shaft and the bearing assembly it fits in.
Lynn

[Alice in Md]

Glad you got your essential machine fixed! It sounds more like a car than a crafting tool, though -- crank shaft?!?