Running in an electric motor 

Is it really neccessary? 

 

 

  

Yes, is it really? 

 

If you want a motor that gives you maximum power from the beginning, without causing unnecessary interference from sparks, you should take the time to run in a new electric motor. I refer to the ordinary ferrite motor, i.e. the type of motor most of us are using. The aim is to grind in the coal brushes in order to get a connection, as even as possible. 

 

What method should you use? 

 

As usual, there are different schools and the proponents from each of them strongly maintains the view that they have the only or superior solution. You may in fact choose any solution, as long as you follow the advice you get. 

 

Today you often see a suggestion to run in the motor in a bucket of water! 

 

It sounds mad but is probably OK, especially if you are in a hurry. At least as long as you do not overdo it (run too long or on a too high voltage) and make sure the motor is dried out thoroughly and oil the bearings afterwards! I have not tried this method myself, but suggests another and more simple conventional way. 

 

The running-in 

 

Connect two ordinary torch-light batteries in series and hook-up to the motor, using crocodile clamps if you do not have special connectors. The rpm will be just fine (low), without using a propeller! Let the motor run with the motor axle vertical if possible (not necessary really).If you are running in a 600 size motor, you may do something else in the meantime. Go to bed for instance, and wake up, finding a well run-in motor - and empty batteries. The arched surface on the brushes are now grinded and smooth. 

 

With a 400 size motor you have some problem - it may run forever on the torch-light batteries! A couple of hours run-in time is enough. Do not be surprised if you find two tracks made on the collector (motor axle) by the brushes. If it is a standard 400 motor (Speed 400 or equivalent), the brushes are turned 90 degrees, i.e the arched surface seems to be in the wrong direction, across the motor axle. It is OK however. 

 

Thats all there is to it! Make or get a simple battery holder and two crocodile clamps and you will have a device that will work forever (you have to get new batteries of course...).  

 

No High-Tech or cool (wet) method? It is not necessary!