Hey Kirby specialists, I've restored about 7-8 Kirbys from the Sanitronic and Classic models. Invariably, when I reassemble the motor, install the armature with the front bearing plate in place, the armature rotates freely, but when I install the fan, some of the freedom in the spin is lost as if there is a drag someplace. Am I over-tightening the fan? Is there friction created someplace that will disappear with use? I'd like to figure this out. Thanks.
Installing a Kirby aluminum fan DS 50
- Thread starter jeschbac
- Start date
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bikerray
Well-known member
You may be using a fan from a different model where the shaft from the fan isn't long enough to provide enough space between the bearing plate and the underside of the fan.
Also are you putting the bearing in the bearing plate? Which way is the step of the bearing facing? You might have the bearing in the plate backward.
Next are the screws in the bearing plate scraping against the back of the fan?
Also are you putting the bearing in the bearing plate? Which way is the step of the bearing facing? You might have the bearing in the plate backward.
Next are the screws in the bearing plate scraping against the back of the fan?
interesting
Actually, I most often find the original fans to be in good condition and don't replace them, and this was the case with the DS 50: It's the original fan. The bearing is definitely placed correctly. I wondered if the screws for the bearing plate might be hitting the back of the fan, so I slackened the fan a bit last night. I think it's ok. What I think happens is that the ridge on the back of the fan that fits into the center opening in the bearing plate rubs the new felt washers I invariably install, so this could be a matter of break-in. Ideas?
Actually, I most often find the original fans to be in good condition and don't replace them, and this was the case with the DS 50: It's the original fan. The bearing is definitely placed correctly. I wondered if the screws for the bearing plate might be hitting the back of the fan, so I slackened the fan a bit last night. I think it's ok. What I think happens is that the ridge on the back of the fan that fits into the center opening in the bearing plate rubs the new felt washers I invariably install, so this could be a matter of break-in. Ideas?
