I've had two Burnmaster pens quit working today. Seems too coincidental even though they are the same age and used about the same amount. I have two controllers, several pens, cables, connectors, etc. So I've been able to play swap out and isolate the problem to the pens. All other components are working as they should.
The pens are about $30 each but I wouldn't whine and cry too long about having to buy more if I knew for sure what caused these to go out and whether they are prone to failure.
Has anyone else had this problem or have any advice?
The "Tip" side is okay on both pens, but the "Ring" side has a high resistance. Either 40, .4, .04, or .004 ohms depending on how you read this stupid, cheap, VOM meter that I'm using (not that I remember much about ohms anyway). Also the resistance seems to vary depending on how long it's been unplugged from the power. So it's probably a heat related issue.
The pens seem to be molded solid. No way to repair.
Chuck this happened to me in the past. I thought the pens were wasted, but you can get the insert pretty cheaply--I thought--from Wood Carver's Supply. They send you instructions that are easy to follow. No affiliation with the company--just a satisfied customer.
After the tip from Mark I called Woodcarvers Supply and left a message, but did not get a call back yet.
Meanwhile I took another look at the pens and sure enough there is a tiny, tiny plastic set screw that holds the insides in the housing. After taking one apart I'm pretty sure I can solder in new wires. Just ran out of time today.
I'm still curious about both burning out the same day. I have fried a few tips with my home made controller, but it has always been the tip that goes.
All of my pens have interchangeable tips, even the one from Razortip.
You can replace the wiring yourself. It is a simple "drop and play" assembly. The pen can be easily disassembled per the included illustrated instructions. The whole job should take about 2-minutes. The item to order is: 497810 Replacement Wiring Assembly $12.95
BTW, to my knowledge Burnmaster is the only manufacturer of wood "hot wire" burning units offering a do it yourself pen wiring repair kit. With other brands you must either toss the pen or send it in for repair. This kit can be purchased from Wood Carvers Supply at the link below:
I bought two replacement kits directly from Burnmaster for about $12-$13 each. I haven't installed them yet because I've been out for over a month getting some heart plumbing fixed.
