Sidewinder V3 Care Sheet
Please watch the setup and tuning video.
The Sidewinder is not to be used with cartridges! (It will interfere with the tuning/spring mechanism)
The machine must be set up and loaded in order to see how it runs. It will run choppy unloaded.
You will need a sturdy nipple when using the machine. I found that most of the “secure fit” nipples are too weak and fall apart. I found some black ones from Saltwater Tattoo supply that work well.
**hit adjustments can be made simply by adjusting the rubberbands up or down. pulling the band up will make it hit harder, down for softer. I tune them with the band perpendicular to the needle.
*Rotation of the motor will make it hit different as well. Clockwise will hit harder (positive (red side) on the clipcord up). Counterclockwise will be more passive. (positive down on clipcord)
There are 2 points of tuning on the machine, and use a 1.5mm allen key to adjust.
The stroke adjustment knob (also the top clipcord connector) will make major hit adjustments. turning it clockwise will make it hit harder, counterclockwise to hit softer. The stroke might get longer over time, and may need to be adjusted periodically.
The impact screw is the forward most screw on the top/center of the a-bar. There should be a slight, gentle compression between the flat spring and bearing when the abar is in the down position. If the machine stutters, skips, or sounds weak, turn the screw in slightly. If it runs really choppy, or spits, you may have it turned in too much.
I used to have adjustable return spring tension, but I now use a fixed spring tension to make tuning easier!!
Perpendicular to all the adjustment screws, there are locking set screws. Make sure they are turned in snug to keep the adjustment screws from moving. Typical voltage is 5.5-7 volts. Do not exceed 8 volts. They tend to run better at higher speeds. Sometimes, turning up the volts will stop spitting.