I got given a good old pillar drill but it is three phase - so what now?

[Stretch]

I went the replacement motor route. I think I've got a good un but it turned up with a silver cigar bit as well.

I'm not really sure what it is - I think it is a big capacitor - but I'm not really sure why it is there!

Here's a picture of the thing. Can anyone tell me more about it?

[ESjaavik]

Probably a single phase motor.
Or it could be a 3-phase motor in Steinmetz connection.

[Rick (madera)]

Yes, it is a capacitor. A lot of motors have starter capacitors, some have running capacitors. Stater caps have paper filled running have oil fill.

[Stretch]

Thanks so is the starter capacitor used to give that extra bit of push then? If so I guess I need to power it up for a bit before starting then - otherwise it won't be charged...

[Stretch]

Originally Posted by ESjaavik

Probably a single phase motor.
Or it could be a 3-phase motor in Steinmetz connection.

It is indeed a single phase motor (well according to the label on the motor so I hope that's true). I'll take the next obvious step and see what the wiring is like under the cover...

[oldgoaly]

Like Rick said could be a start or run cap, start cap will be in series with a centrifugal switch to remove it from circuit when up to speed. run cap will not have a switch, also known as a split phase motor. Hard to read the specs on the cap.

[dmc1]

Originally Posted by Army

Thanks so is the starter capacitor used to give that extra bit of push then? If so I guess I need to power it up for a bit before starting then - otherwise it won't be charged...

No, just connect it up properly and forget about it. No charging needed, whether it's a start or run capacitor.

Dave Cameron

[Stretch]

Ok thanks folks - sorry about my storm in a tea cup!

[beatamax]

Originally Posted by Army

Well almost except I really want to see many more flat leather belts and shafts running to a beam steam engine...

...I'd accept a pair of shire horses instead of the steam engine though!

I'd love a line shaft in my workshop, i'd even settle for an old lister or bamford stationary engine thumping every 30 seconds

[Stretch]

Originally Posted by beatamax

I'd love a line shaft in my workshop, i'd even settle for an old lister or bamford stationary engine thumping every 30 seconds

I'm amazed at how inexpensive some of the stationary single cylinder diesels are here in Holland. I'm really tempted but I've really got to get a grip I've got enough on my plate at the moment.