Have you got the dial at 12 o'clock? That's usually a good spot. Turn it on its side if your load falls out. Test it before you put the bowl in. If it comes out just lay the Vapo down and you've got a horizontal position. Your piece(s) just needs to be smaller than the dimple in the bowl. Using sideways is a lot easier with the angled bowl. That 'buddy' bowl is great-swivels around nicely. Thicker glass too. AIW bowl is even better.