Motor won't start

Hi,

When the motor just hums and will start if spun by hand, the starting capacitor needs replacing.

It is located on the outside of the motor under a metal dome/cover. It is usually connected by spade connectors. Remove the capacitor and take it to a local motor service (see yellow pages). The cost should be reasonable.

By the way, disconnecting the capacitor and hand starting is a way to make the motor reversible. The Japanese wood turner (at RI symposium) did this to make a reversable lathe from an electric motor.

I have had this problem. Before you do anything make sure that your electric supply line is working properly.

Three things can be defectives. The first thing is the electric switch. The next thing is the condenser. The last thing is the motor. Before doing anything have your model number ready and check with Canadian tire Help line (800-689-9928) First thing vacuum and clean the area were your lathe is located. So if you drop parts it will be easier to found them. I would start by checking the switch. Disconnect the power of the lathe. Take the switch off the lathe. Temporally replace it with a standard house switch for testing purpose. If the motor starts then the switch needs replacing. The OEM switch that comes with these Canadian Tire lathe are not dust prove and need to be replaced from time to time. If the lathe still does not start then check the condenser. To do this you need another condenser. I got mine from Canadian Tire help line (Free). Once the switch and condenser are found to be in working condition and the lathe still does not start the electric motor may well be the culprit. If the lathe is still under warranty you can get a replacement. If not you may have to call on the local electric motors rebuilding shop for a quotation. Sometime its better to buy the motor from Canadian Tire.

Not much of a chance to ever stomp you guys with any question eh :))) Thanks so much for the speedy & excellent advice. Just called the 800 number and a replacement capacitor is on the way. Thanks again, Bart.

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Here is another dumb suggestion Get a magnetic dish from auto supply or an old speaker magnet. As you take off the cover put the screws on the magnet or in the dish. I have a Jet 1236 and after the group gave me the capasitor change out I took things apart and put the screws an the lathe. After looking inside I thought I should blow it out to make sure it was clean. Hooked up the vac hose to the output port and started to bring the hose to the motor. Have you ever walked into a room and said don't turn on the lights and watched your hand move to the light switch and turn in on like it had a mind of its own?? You guessed it as the hose neared the motor I said stop, but it moved right over the lathe and blew the screws into the shaveings I spent a long time on my hands and knees with that speaker magnet going through the shaveings. Not to disappoint you I found them all but 1. It must be metric as I have not been able to find another. Now the cover rattles a little now and then. What is the saying "and ounce of prevention..........."

Good luck with your lathe Bruce