Vita-Mix won't mix

[circlew]

I have an old Vita-Mix model #517 that was working OK until I cleaned the container. I filled it with hot water and baking soda, and let it soak to remove some residue in the bottom, and now - while the motor runs fine - the blades won't turn. I wanted to give this as a gift, but obviously don't wish to give someone something that isn't in good working order. Any suggestions on getting this thing working again will be appreciated. I need to get it going or will have to find something else for the gift.

 

[whirlcool]

You would think that baking soda & hot water wouldn't hurt it.
Is the motor itself turning or is just the food container that won't turn?

 

[circlew]

Hey Allen, the motor runs fine. It's just the blade assembly that's not turning.

 

[whirlcool]

Can you turn the blade assembly by hand? I would soak it more in hot water only and try to turn the blade after it warms up from the water to see what happens.

I wonder if it is grit from the baking soda that got inside the bearing?

 

[circlew]

Still won't go

I tried very hot water by itself, and the blades still won't turn. It's seized up tight. I had never used the machine to make anything during the 4 years I had it, but the blades did turn before I put the water in it. Had to get something else to send to my Santa partner.

 

[swestoyz]

Sounds like the blade is toast. VitaMix still sets replacement blades for the 3600/4000 series - you may want to contact them to see if they will fit the earlier 517. However, they are pricey.

Ben

http://www.vitamix.com/household/service/

 

[circlew]

Thanks for the info Ben. I only paid $4 for it a few years ago, and never did use it, so don't want to spend much on it. If someone has a good container and needs a power unit, they can have it. I think I'll do another post and offer it for the cost of shipping. Otherwise, I'll probably discard it.