Hello
Not sure if anyone's still hanging about here.
I picked up a G4 this summer and it's in great shape, came from an operating letterpress shop. Only thing is, it has a 3 phase 1hp motor which I can't use at home. Should I swap this out with a single phase 1hp of similar specs, or get a converter so I can use the 3-phase?
If I swap the 3 phase motor out, are there any considerations beyond RPM? I might assume the motor contributes to the saw's function since it helps to weigh down the blade assembly.
Thanks
Mike
New Hammond G4
Moderator: crzypete
Hi Mike,
I split your post off to give you your own thread.
Congrats on the saw, you will love it.
I never worried about the weight of the motor on the G4's, but I did change the motor tensioning system a little bit. The way Hammond engineered it was a bolt with a spring, but I found that bounced too much for my liking. I always tap that hole and use a threaded bolt to exert actual full time tension on the motor. I would recommend this for all G4's and G4b's
I'm not sure you will go wrong with any decision to power the saw. I will say that a motor swap is generally a lot of work. If you want, you can speed up the arbor a bit, this will get it closer to a regular woodworking saw. I never have and can't say I miss the extra speed.
Also, in swapping it out you will want to check the pulley size. Some of those older saws have a 3/4" shaft which is hard to find in modern motors. There are, of course, workarounds, but it translates to more work.
Pete
I split your post off to give you your own thread.
Congrats on the saw, you will love it.
I never worried about the weight of the motor on the G4's, but I did change the motor tensioning system a little bit. The way Hammond engineered it was a bolt with a spring, but I found that bounced too much for my liking. I always tap that hole and use a threaded bolt to exert actual full time tension on the motor. I would recommend this for all G4's and G4b's
I'm not sure you will go wrong with any decision to power the saw. I will say that a motor swap is generally a lot of work. If you want, you can speed up the arbor a bit, this will get it closer to a regular woodworking saw. I never have and can't say I miss the extra speed.
Also, in swapping it out you will want to check the pulley size. Some of those older saws have a 3/4" shaft which is hard to find in modern motors. There are, of course, workarounds, but it translates to more work.
Pete