need you help on this machine

I have a chance to buy this stringing machine. Since I never touch a stringing machine, so I need your help. What I know:

+ this is a basic drop weight Gamma progression model.
+ it is probably previous model before the current Gamma progression II sold in TW.

All the tools in the picture are included and I saw:

+ 1 starting clamp
+ 1 flying clamp that looks like Klippermate ???

Here are questions:

+ what are two big clamp ? are they also flying clamp ?
+ are all the tools in the pics enough for doing a proper stringing job ?
+ if not, what else do I need ?
+ what more do I need to know about the machine ?
+ is it worth buying used or buy the new Gamma x2, Klippermate

Time sensitive, any help would be great. Thanks a bunch.

Never seen flying clamps like that. Also, why is the tension arm so badly bent?

loosegroove said:

Never seen flying clamps like that. Also, why is the tension arm so badly bent?

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Can it have that shape from beginning ? in previous model ?

Well seeing how you're supposed to drop the arm to parallel with the tabletop, I'm not sure what parallel to a curve is.

loosegroove said:

Well seeing how you're supposed to drop the arm to parallel with the tabletop, I'm not sure what parallel to a curve is.

Click to expand...

You're probably right. no sane design could have a bent arm like that.

Personally, I would pass this machine. From the picture, those clamps look old and not sure how well they can hold now. Also, the tension bar is bent which you will need to replace.

Just buy a new one, they are not that expensive and you'll have a peace of mind.

Good luck with your decision.

How much are they asking? I'd rather get a new Klippermate or Gamma X2. The machine looks beat. Notice how it is also missing the rubber pads on the mounts, so the frame would be resting on the bare metal. More trouble than it's worth.

I know the feeling of really wanting a stringing machine , but don't let that make you buy a piece of junk.

Those clamps are for badminton i think, the metal clamp is a flying clamp from klippermate and the other thing is a starting clamp.

so here is the deal:

BAD:
-it's an old machine (you can tell from the style)
-it has a badly bent drop weight arm (which may make it unusable altogether)
-it is missing 1 flying clamp
-the bidding is already $78

GOOD:
- it comes with a starting clamp (value about $40 IF IT WORKS)

I wouldnt touch that thing with a 10 foot pole

keep looking on the bay and craig list and be patient

I just got a ATS Super Stringer II (exact same as gamma progression 200)on craig for $75 that was in like new shape.

Thanks everyone. That really makes this forum great. I will stay away from this one.

If it's less than $40, buy it and throw everything away except for the starting clamp.

Wuppy said:

If it's less than $40, buy it and throw everything away except for the starting clamp.

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It's up to $101 with almost a day left ... wtf ... lol there are some stupid people out there.

Parhaps not stupid, but they just don't know any better and are too lazy to at least find out like the OP here did. I mean jeesh ... if they have access to **** then they have access to these boards.

I feel bad for whoever buys that thing thinking they are going to start stringing their own racket.

Hmmmm....someone spent $112 on that. Seller got way more than that thing is worth, and the poor buyer will have a beat machine that is worthless until a little money and time is put into it. Even then, it's not like they'll be able to find OEM replacement pads where the racket frame rests, so they will have to figure something out, what a pain in the arse. Plus order a new tension bar from Gamma...way too much effort, and in the end you'll have an old used machine. By that point they'll have spent more than buying a shiny new Gamma X2 which also comes with a bunch of free string.