1. Introduction
The Norpro 1952 Jumbo Tomato Press is designed for efficiently processing fresh tomatoes and other soft fruits into sauces, purees, and juices. This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use, assembly, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your tomato press.
Figure 1: Assembled Norpro 1952 Jumbo Tomato Press.
2. Components
Familiarize yourself with the parts of your Norpro 1952 Jumbo Tomato Press:
- Hopper: The large funnel-shaped top where produce is loaded.
- Plunger: Used to push produce into the auger.
- Auger/Spiral: The internal component that crushes and moves produce.
- Stainless Steel Mesh Screen: Separates pulp/juice from seeds and skins.
- Crank Handle: Manual operation of the auger.
- Clamp Base: Secures the unit to a countertop or table.
- Chute/Tray: Collects the processed juice/pulp.
- Waste Chute: Discharges seeds and skins.
Figure 2: Detailed view of the internal mesh screen and auger.
3. Setup and Assembly
- Secure the Base: Attach the clamp base to a clean, smooth, and sturdy countertop or table. Tighten the clamp securely to prevent movement during operation.
- Assemble the Body: Insert the auger/spiral into the main body of the press. Ensure it is properly aligned.
- Install the Screen: Place the stainless steel mesh screen over the auger, ensuring it fits snugly.
- Attach the Hopper: Position the hopper onto the top of the main body.
- Attach the Crank Handle: Secure the crank handle to the side of the auger shaft.
- Position Collection Trays: Place a bowl or container under the juice/pulp chute and another under the waste chute to collect separated materials.
Figure 3: Assembled press with collection bowls in place.
4. Operating Instructions
- Prepare Produce: For best results, wash and cut tomatoes or other soft fruits into manageable pieces. For harder fruits like apples or pumpkins, pre-cooking until soft is recommended. Remove any hard stems or large cores.
- Load the Hopper: Place the prepared produce into the hopper.
- Begin Processing: Slowly turn the crank handle clockwise. The auger will draw the produce into the screen, separating the juice/pulp from the seeds and skins.
- Use the Plunger: Use the plunger to gently push produce down into the auger as needed. Do not force the plunger, as this may damage the unit.
- Collect Output: The processed juice/pulp will exit through the main chute into your collection tray, while seeds and skins will be expelled through the waste chute.
- Repeat: Continue feeding produce and cranking until all desired items are processed.
Video 1: Demonstration of the Norpro 1952 Jumbo Tomato Press in action, showing how to feed produce and collect the output.
Figure 4: Tomatoes being processed, showing separation of pulp and waste.
5. Cleaning and Maintenance
Proper cleaning ensures the longevity and hygiene of your tomato press.
- Disassembly: Carefully disassemble all parts of the press.
- Rinse: Rinse all components under warm running water to remove large food particles.
- Wash: Wash all parts with warm, soapy water. Use a brush to clean the mesh screen thoroughly to remove any lodged seeds or pulp. The unit is dishwasher safe.
- Dry: Dry all parts completely before reassembly or storage to prevent rust and mildew.
- Storage: Store the clean, dry components in a safe place.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Unit not securely attached to counter. | Clamp base is loose or surface is uneven. | Ensure clamp is tightened firmly on a clean, smooth, and stable surface. |
| Difficulty turning crank/processing produce. | Produce is too hard or large; auger is jammed. | Ensure produce is adequately cooked (if necessary) and cut into smaller pieces. Do not overfill the hopper. Clear any jams by reversing the crank slightly. |
| Excessive waste or unprocessed pulp in waste chute. | Produce not fully processed; screen clogged. | Run the waste through the press a second time. Ensure the screen is clean and not clogged. |
| Leakage from the unit. | Improper assembly or damaged seals. | Disassemble and reassemble the unit, ensuring all parts, especially seals, are correctly seated. Inspect seals for damage. |
7. Specifications
- Brand: Norpro
- Model Number: 1952
- Model Name: Norpro 1952 Jumbo Tomato Press
- Color: Red
- Product Dimensions: 15"D x 17"W x 31"H
- Finish Type: Stainless Steel
- Capacity: 3.5 Liters
- Power Source: Manual
- Blade Material: Stainless Steel
- Is Dishwasher Safe: Yes
- Item Weight: 2.85 pounds
- UPC: 028901519520
- Date First Available: March 24, 2011
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, product support, or to inquire about replacement parts, please contact Norpro directly through their official website or customer service channels. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
