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marknem7 Elite user 497 Posts |
I'd like to build a flat base on wheels to support an illusion that will weigh about 60-70 pounds, and need advice on the best type of casters to use. They would be used on legs about 8" high.
I want the type that will enable me to rotate the illusion completely around as easily as possible. My question is, should I use ball or wheel type casters? And how large would I need to go -- 2", 4" or bigger? I'd rather not have the effect look industrial. Ball casters look better, but I suspect the wheel casters provide more mobility. Any thoughts? Many thanks!!! Mark |
makeupguy Inner circle 1411 Posts |
You want wheel casters. Ball casters are pretty.. but they tend to break easily. 60-70 lbs isn't a heavy illusion.. and ball casters would probably work...
I get mine here: http://www.greatlakescaster.com/categories.php?cat=245 they have a number of wheel.. and decorative casters that would hold the prop you're using.. |
marknem7 Elite user 497 Posts |
Thanks. Any suggestion on what size for this 3'x3' base? I'd experiment with different sizes but, dang, decent quality casters are hecka expensive.
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EsnRedshirt Special user Newark, CA 895 Posts |
Mark, when building an illusion, don't skimp on the casters. Believe me, you'll regret it if one fails during a performance. Especially if it's carrying a live load. Injuries are no fun at all.
Self-proclaimed Jack-of-all-trades and google expert*.
* = Take any advice from this person with a grain of salt. |
jay leslie V.I.P. Southern California 9498 Posts |
I once complained to my father that the four casters on my new illusion cost me 300ºº. He said "I hope they wear-out quickly"
That was odd. Then he said "If they are wearing-out that means you are using them and making money. You can scrimp on the road cases - you can drive a rust-bucket - you may even need to rent your sound system BUT your props must look first rate or it's not worth doing the show. And you may not be rebooked.
Jay Leslie
www.TheHouseOfEnchantment.com |
marknem7 Elite user 497 Posts |
I'm afraid my question is being misinterpreted. What SIZE of (expensive, good quality) casters would make the illusion most easy and fluid to rotate?
I'd rather not purchase and install 2" casters, then learn that I should have bought 4", or even larger, casters. For this weight of illusion (70lbs, give or take) on a flat, 3' x 3' base, anyone have an idea of what size would be best, and without it looking like an oversize pickup truck? |
videokideo Special user 895 Posts |
It all depends on the illusion. You would know better than anyone. Maybe you can post a pic....until then we are all guessing. The 4" can have a positive over the 2" in some cases, and just the opposite in others. They are right on the wheel casters though. They ride over any bump or chip in any stage...ball casters get stuck in them and your illusion leg could snap.
Im just guessing, but a 3'x3' base would look better with 2" wheels. Then again, I'm going by a base, not the entire illusion itself. If the illusion is bulky, id go bigger. Last suggestion....when you hit a garage sale or flea market and see a single caster, buy it. Set it on your shelf so when it comes time to add casters, you have a few samples to look at. |
Frank Simpson Special user SW Montana 883 Posts |
It will be a question of degrees. The larger the wheel, the easier to roll. Now an illusion containing, say, a tiger will need at least a 6" wheel. My Zig-Zag and Temple of Benares illusions are on 2" wheels. I am able to wheel them about on a good smooth stage without undue difficulty. With a girl in them they each weigh considerably more than 60-70 lbs. If I had a larger caster (perhaps a 3") the prop would move more easily, but it would really look disporoportionate to the rest of the prop.
The other consideration it to make sure that you are getting a ball bearing caster. There are cheaply made casters that are simply a wheel on an axle. These are guaranteed to disappoint you. A ball bearing caster is much freer moving. No one will be able to give you a specific answer as it is going to require a judgment call on your part. That being said, I would be inclined to recommend a 2" caster as a workable and aesthetically pleasing solution. |
marknem7 Elite user 497 Posts |
Beautiful! I'll give the 2-inchers a try and hope for the best. The illusion is basically a Voodoo Box, so it's not particularly bulky. If 2" works fine on your Zig-Zag and Temple, Frank, they should be right for my needs.
Terrific answers, everybody! MANY thanks to you all!!! |
Sap4997 New user 51 Posts |
My set up is about the same. and I have no problems with a 2" caster. just be sure to use ball bearing casters.
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ringmaster Inner circle Memphis, Down in Dixie 1974 Posts |
At least two LOCKING ball bearing castes.
One of the last living 10-in-one performers. I wanted to be in show business the worst way, and that was it.
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marknem7 Elite user 497 Posts |
Quote:
On 2012-05-07 17:57, ringmaster wrote: Good point. And added to my list. |
collective foundry Inner circle 1404 Posts |
I try to use a Guitel / Resilex Casters 4inch to 5inch / Meta-bloc: double-action rear brake: wheel and
swivel. Steel pedal Heavy Duty & Rolls like its on rails. |
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