Sunbeam T-20a Auto-Drop malfuction (advice needed)

[hexamoron]

This is being posted in advance since I don't yet have the unit in my possession, but it will be arriving soon so might as well get the information while I can.

I've bought a Sunbeam T-20a toaster and there's an issue with it that I wasn't able to find in the Service Bulletin;
The seller mentions that the toaster lowers itself down and heats without the presence of bread and will not raise itself unless unplugged. The service bulletin describes a similar issue but (adding to my suffering) the /exact opposite/, listing down an issue where the unit will not detect anything being put inside.

Is this a problem involving a stuck trigger or is it something else?

I'll be able to provide additional details about it when I actually have the unit on-hand, it is a Christmas gift.

 

[texaskirbyguy]

Sounds like a stuck thermostat or related mechanism.

In this design the thermostat measures radiant bread temperature.
When no bread in it, unit should turn off and start rising within 3-7 seconds depending on unit temperature. This is because the thermostat measures heat from the opposing element rather than the missing toast.

There are many youtube videos about this popular toaster which should help you repair it.

I have one I got from Goodwill for 0.39 which just needed a small adjustment.
I do agree this was the Cadillac of toasters - too bad they are not made anymore. They would be cost prohibited now I suppose due to the mechanical complexity.

 

[texaskirbyguy]

BTW, the service bulletin probably describes the issue I had with mine.
I put the toast in and it did not drop far enough for it to start.
A small tweak on the bottom, center screw under the crumb tray got it going again. Common, easy adjustment.

Hope you get it going - you will love it and you will also impress your friends with this mechanical marvel.

 

[texaskirbyguy]

Here is a good video describing the operation and some repairs of these Radiant Control toasters.
Despite the slight model number differences, the mechanism is very similar.

 

[texaskirbyguy]

And here is another video from the same crafty guy, explaining the entire operation of the mechanism...


Hope you get it fixed - you will love it.

 

[mjhoshaw]

Good luck with yours, I love mine!

My parents had a T20. Not sure whether it was a T20, T20A, or what. Based on my memories of it, I have a T20B that was made the day I was born. When I saw that date in the eBay image, there was no way I was going to pass it up! I had to replace the original cord. I couldn't locate a vintage Sunbeam cord in good condition, so I settled for a NOS cloth-covered replacement cordset. The chrome is nearly perfect, and it still makes perfect toast. Fast, too! It draws about 500 watts more than our daily driver, so it gets the job done in a hurry. It's on display with a few other vintage appliances in our basement canning kitchen, and I often use it when I make toast.


 


Joel