Dominion Elliot Minor Woodworker

[LaurieG]

I have one of these universal woodworkers which consists of planer , saw and crosscut saw . The problem I have is the switch gear has passed it's sell by date and needs replacing . My electrician has been unable to find modern replacements because it has two boxes which start the motor either clockwise or anti clockwise depending on what piece of the machine is in use . It appears you can no longer obtain this kind of kit . So my question is does anyone know where I could obtain replacement boxes or is there an alternative method to switch from one direction to another ?

 

[CHJ]

Any electrician used to machine tools should be able to make you up an alternate switch box with the appropriate reverse switching function.

Basically all that is required is to reverse the direction of the starter winding connections and these must already be present at the old switches.

An NVR switch for ON and OFF.
A multi-pole change over switch RIGHT-OFF-LEFT wired so that it also breaks the NVR feed in the off position.
Often a rotary switch to make it a deliberate operation as opposed to an accidental button push.

 

[dickm]

Assuming the motor is a normal capacitor start one (from memory, it's the good old Brook Gryphon) then changing direction just needs a double pole double throw switch of sufficient current capacity. Again, from memory, didn't the Minor have the Dewhirst drum-type reversing switch often fitted to Myford and other metalworking lathes? If so, these are designed for 3 phase and single phase operation, and can often be repaired for single phase use by swapping around the internal contact bars. Worth a look on the web if it's relevant. I've done it, but it was a while back and I can't remember precise details.
And if it is a Dewhirst, then a key to keeping it working well is NOT to use it as an on/off switch as well as a reversing switch, which has been known to happen .
If you want an NVR switch and the motor isn't more than 750 Watt, I have a spare one.

 

[LaurieG]

Many thanks people I will tell my eletrician of your findings . These forums really are useful .

 

[SammyQ]

Laurie?? I'm breaking a Minor into separate items and have a two-way switch in good nick. If other avenues do not work out for you, contact me via PM and we'll sort out details?

Sam

 

[LaurieG]

Sam Thank you very much . If other avenues don't workout I shall be in touch .