Hofmann VML16 Manual Quick Blade Change
Hofmann VML16 Manual Blade Change Full Version
Hofmann VML16 Manuals
2022 onwards Manual
2004-2021 Manual
Pre 2004 Manual
The Plunger mechanism
It is Vital that the plunger mechanism is correctly assembled so the plunger is exactly parallel with the piston. Only use Hofmann approved parts and ensure all the washer are the correct size an in the correct place.
Hofmann VML16 Vibration and Noise Levels
Hofmann VML16 Versions
There have been several versions of the VML16 over the years. As you can see from the photos below the front half is pretty much the same with just upgrades to the plunger arms and bearing, there have been some changes such as uprated springs and sealed bearings too, all of which are backwards compatible. However the motor and gearbox have definite model changes.
From 1990 through to 2004 the handle and gearbox was based around “Stayer” motor with the motor dropping down when it connects to the gearbox . the handles were various colours, mainly green and red, with slight variations. parts are now getting scarce
From 2004 through to 2022 the handle and gearbox was based around “Fein” motor with the motor being slightly higher than the gearbox
the handle was an orangey red, and most parts are available and should be for some time to come.
From 2022 the handle is grey and the motor is even higher than gearbox. the motor is called “Duss”
a better photo will follow soon.
VML16 Needle and Feedwheel sizes
The pile height is set with the needle length and more importantly the feedwheel circumference/diameter.
the needles will be 3-4mm longer than the required pile height, so a 28.5mm is used for a 25mm pile height (but you must also use the correct feedwheel). the measurement is taken from the base to the tip
The only exception to this is the 12 and 16mm needles, these both have a length of 19.8 mm. to differentiate between these, you must measure from the base to the bottom of the throat, the 12mm will be 11mm from base to throat, where as the 16mm 1s 12.2mm.
The following picture shows a 12mm needle.
| Pile Length | Feedwheel Diameter | Needle Height | Throat Height | Cam Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | 9.5 | 20 | 11.1 | Special 12mm |
| 16 | 12.1 | 20 | 12.2 | Standard |
| 18 | 13.1 | 21.5 | – | Standard |
| 20 | 14.3 | 23.5 | – | Standard |
| 25 | 17.5 | 28.5 | – | Standard |
| 30 | 20.7 | 33.5 | – | Standard |
| 35 | 23.9 | 38.5 | – | Standard |
| 40 | 27 | 43.5 | – | Standard |
| 45 | 30.1 | 48.5 | – | Standard |