Motor shaft

[greatlakestate]

Just for experimenting (and fun!) I am installing a 18 volt 700 series fan cooled drill motor from in a project boat. I will be using a 5mm shaft coupler to a flex cable. I'm new to the larger motors, there is no flat portion on the shaft (not sure if this is because it is a drill motor or not...the drill shaft was geared) Do I need to grind out a flat area on the shaft for the set screws and if so, what is the best method to get an accurate notch?

Thanks! ----Rob

[Diegoboy]

Yes, you need to grind a flat section on the motor shaft. use a small file and remember not to go so deep as to comprimise the structural integrity of the shaft. you just want it enough for the set screw to bite down on w/o slipping. There are no extra points for neatness or accuracy.

[Meniscus]

Man! I need those points!

Wait a second....looking around....it doesn't look like I'd be eligible anyway! LMAO!

[paulwilliams]

I put the motor in a plastic bag with the shaft poking through a hole in the bag - this prevents filings or grinding dust from falling into the motor magnets or bearings.

Paul

[greatlakestate]

Thanks! I love the bag idea, would not have thought of that. BTW, what is the best way to really clean an electric motor?...this one has a little grime/dust built up from its time in the drill.

[paulwilliams]

Motor cleaner spray I'd have thought was best - it's a mild solvent that won't attack the lacquer on the windings. Remember to re-oil the bearings afterwards - motor cleaner will strip the lubricant out of the bearings.

TBH, go brushless! No cleaning or maintenance to speak of :-)

Paul

[ED66677]

the bag is a very good idea Paul!

[hookedup]

I put the motor in a plastic bag with the shaft poking through a hole in the bag - this prevents filings or grinding dust from falling into the motor magnets or bearings.

Paul

i do the same thing, works like a charm. i use a Dremel with a 3mm wide grinding stone. just go "easy, easy". i try to set it up first with the flex cable and figure out where the set screw is going to end up on the shaft. then just notch the shaft right there, add a few milimeters on each side. (goes without saying) but try to notch it as flat as you can get it so the set screw sits flat and gets a good hold on the shaft.

[paulwilliams]

Remove the absolute minimum amount of material from the motor shaft - if you take too much, the motor coupling may not sit square on the shaft and will run out and vibrate badly. I've seen this happen a few times. You only need the tiniest flat on the shaft for the set screw(s).

Paul