Do-It-Yourself Story

Rood Cause #1: One of the front roller bearings was worn out and did not spin freely. Solution #1: I replaced the two front roller bearing assemblies (both included 2-pack). Rood Cause #2: The bottom surface of the compactor slide-out assembly had become deformed (convex) most likely due to the repeated force of compaction over the years. This bottom surface rubbed against the lower frame as evidenced by removal of paint (bare metal was exposed). Friction prevented the compactor drawer from opening freely. Solution #2: I flipped the compactor slide-out assembly upside down on the tile surface of my fire pit (any flat surface should work) and whacked it 8 or 10 times with a hammer along the inner perimeter to convert the convex surface into a flat-to-slightly-concave surface. Bottom Line: Works like new ... when I step on the lower lever the compactor opens by itself. Saved the cost of a new compactor ... wife is happy ... should have done this a few years ago.