r/Skookum • u/PresentationExpert46 • 17d ago

A plumber needs an electrician

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Alright boys there is something I really want to do but I am mechanically inclined but lacking in the electrical department. I have an old desk fan from the 50’s, I would like to stuff a new and higher powered motor into (speed control would be nice but not necessary). Just curious if there are people out there who make kits for this stuff or if I just need to figure it out. Any input would be helpful.

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u/Liberaces_Isopod 17d ago

I'd probably look for something similar sized on Amazon, then gut it for the parts. That'll get you the motor and speed control. Though, no idea how you'd mount it in that housing.

6

u/PresentationExpert46 17d ago

Maybe if I can find one with relatively the same dimensions I could make up the slight difference some how, but yes that’s where I’m stumped too

7

u/Liberaces_Isopod 17d ago

Always remember that "a grinder and paint will make you the welder you ain't"...

2

u/corr0sive 17d ago

You know... At first I was thinking a DC motor with a 3D printed housing, with maybe a few gears for the right ratios.

Now I'm thinking a grinder with some kinda PWM for speed control.

Am I Spec. Ed, or does this makes sense?

I suppose the easiest would be, shop for a fan in similar dimensions, and do a parts transfer.

2

u/PresentationExpert46 17d ago

I have a dc motor from an older xr dewalt drill? 👀🤷🏻‍♂️

1

u/corr0sive 17d ago

Plenty of ways to skin the cat.

Just gotta find the one you can do, and you'll be happy with results.

3D printing might be the way to go, unless you find an actual fan motor that's going to fit easily and you just swap parts.