Maxwell's precessing top very interesting and instructive, and Tim's demonstration piques one's curiosity. I have found it difficult to get the top to move through as many cycles as Tim's shows; perhaps one third as many is the best I have yet achieved. Moreover, unlike his silent top, mine makes rather a grinding noise in operation. I have tried to alleviate this with light application of oil, but this did not improve matters. Any tips or additional advice from the experts welcome!
John Douglas H. 9/11/2023 at 02h00
Hi - Page 11 of the instructions shows how the pointed end at the bottom of the spindle should rest in the dimple in the base (or journal as it is called). If the top is not spinning for long as it should, and is also making a noise, this is probably where the problem lies. I find it is sometimes helpful to hold the whole top upside down in order to make sure that the brass top is properly seated in the dimple.
Please can you let me know how you get on.
grand-illusions.com 9/11/2023 at 10h09
