Cheap Motor wanted

[ErikY]

I am looking to buy a cheap motor that I can use for a shop built lathe (shopnotes issue 73).

I am looking for something between 1/4 hp and 1/2 hp.

If anyone has anything like this they are looking to sell, please let me know.

Thanks,
Erik

[bolson]

If you have a harbor freight around you can get one there for cheap. By the time you ship those motors you spend $25 because they are so heavy. Also check with a local motor repair shop or washing machine repair shop for one. I hear that washing machine motors are about 1/3-1/2 HP, but check to be sure.

[deathwish2]

If you have to go out and buy a new one, go for a model that is TEFC (totally enclosed fan cooled).

Most applican motors are NOT, but if you can score one for free (or nearly free) the are definitely worth considering.

If you go Harbor Freight, this one is $60 and fits your specs.
http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/ctaf/Displayitem.taf?itemnumber=47023

For a few bucks more . . . you can get the same (looking) motor from Grizzly.
http://www.grizzly.com/catalog/2004/181.cfm?

I have a spare motor (3/4hp Jet), but I am not totally convinced I won't need it yet . . . . if I sell it off, I may not be able to justify to my wife that I need that next belt-driven, yet motorless tool I should come across. }>

[Chagrin]

If I were in your shoes I'd try an ad in the local classifieds for a used treadmill -- strip the DC motor and variable speed electronics out of it and you'll have the basis for a nice lathe.

[Super Ry]

If you want to up it to 2 HP you can get one of these for 60 bucks
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2591198997&category=11810

I got one for my TS and althoguh its 240 Volt only - ya can't beat that price.

[ErikY]

I saw that one on ebay, and since I am in NJ, was very tempted because i could possibly pick it up.

I am a little worried about that much power on a shop built lathe.

The plans called for 1/4 HP.

Think 2 would be way too much?

Erik

[Super Ry]

Yea - 2 HP is quite a bit - ALSO cuz its only wired to 240 there is no start up period - just on and ZIP you up to full speed. I'd be nervous about bolting this to anything that is wood.

I'm fabricating a braket for mine - but its made out of 1/8 or 1/4 inch plate steel with a side brace and grade 8 bolts. The idea of this comming loose (at 50 lbs) and propellign itself somewhere at 2 HP and 3450 rpm for launch - Yikes

If your plans called for 1/4 to 1/2 horse - they are prolly NOT designed for more than that. Sorry for the bad direction.

[sledge8]

You might try your local metal recycler....I found a thru motor double shaft in an old washer for $10.00 , it had a wierd mount but added angle iron to extend out a bit for sturdiness , I use it for wire wheel and other end for buffing wheel. I think it is only 1/3 hp and 700 rpm , so you might want to get a 4 step v pully or 2 , one for motor , one for spindle , so you can change speeds. Most washer/dryer motors are smaller and 700 to 1125 rpm. Just an idea , plus it recycles and saves money..........Rick