The problem of dough mixers "walking" across a countertop is frequently
mentioned - comments often hinting "pro-or-con" about a given brand.
From an engineering viewpoint I'd suggest that 90% of the problem isn't
"machine" related, but of the four feet trying support/stabilize the mixer.
If kitchen counters aren't perfectly flat (mine isn't), four points of
support allow a wobble, i.e., one of four points isn't firmly in contact
with the counter... and the mixer does the "countertop dance."
Photographers, in comparison, use - tripods (three legs) as supporting
bases because, from an engineering perspective, three points are
self-stabilizing, i.e, fit solidly onto - any - surface.
The solution to stabilizing the four-leg dough mixer:
1. Always use it at one specific countertop location (ideally, don't move it).
2. Determine which of the four feet doesn't fully support the mixer. To
wit: Place four separate pieces of paper under each leg and then attempt to
pull out the paper; whichever one slides out too easily is the short leg.
3. Adjust the leg height. If not a screw-height adjustment, glue shims -
piece(s) of paper or plastic - to the short leg to achieve an "all four
feet" solidly on the counter... and you'll eliminate 90% of mixer walking
problems.
- Ed Okie