The vibratory finishing process involves three dimensional motion of abrasive media interacting with part surfaces. With the ultimate goal of simulating such media motion in laboratory conditions, we present here a first step that makes use of a tribometer's recipricating drive to provide one dimensional controlled vibrations. Finishing experiments using this setup are conducted using abrasive media and titanium alloy work material, both of the type typically used in aerospace industry. Material removal rates, surface roughness and contact forces are measured in two different setups. The media motion is also modelled using multi-body dynamics to predict the contact forces between the media and the work surface. Experimental results are seen to follow literature reported and model predicted trends. This work paves the way for a true three dimensional simulator for a vibratory finishing process. © (2012) Trans Tech Publications, Switzerland.