I have a Cole 4k Key Machine that has worked great since I purchased it
used 8 months ago. Up until recently, I have been embarrassingly using
customer power to run it. Having purchased a used Van I quickly began
putting together my power needs. I purchased a Vector Maxx SST 2000w
110/220 inverter that provides 18amps. After hooking everything up I
plugged the key machine in directly to the inverter and watched as my
machine chugged painfully to start. Meanwhile I received an audible
continuous beeping from the inverter. After some reading, I learned
that some older electric motors are not compatible with most inverters.
So off to Grainger I went and bought a newer Dayton 1/4hp - 115v -
4.5amp electric motor. Before placing it into my machine I tested it by
plugging it in to the inverter. Although it was closer to kicking over
than my old motor it still wouldn't start - that is, until I
started the van. To my excitement, the motor kicked over and reached
full RPM.
I took out the old motor, put in the new one, attached the drive belt
and kicked on the switch. Again, chug-chug but no start and the same
audible from the inverter. After holding back a few tears, I scratched
my head then removed the belt and wow, the motor turns over. Replaced
the belt and no start. At this point I am at a loss. With a load on the
motor, it won't kick over at all. And that's with the engine
running on the van. I metered the lines at the inverter and I'm
getting 12.3vdc so I don't quite understand what's going on. I know
motors tend to require more power to start than most other appliances
but one would think that this inverter could handle it. The wiring was
already in the van running from the battery to the cab. I'm not quite
sure of the gauge but it is fairly thick (maybe and 1/8") and solid
copper (not stranded). It's about a 10-12' run from the battery to
the inverter. The batter specs are Napa Legend 75 load tested at
335amps.
So there it is. I'm hoping somebody here has a solution to my dilemma
because I am at a loss here. I can't believe the inverter isn't
enough. I know locksmiths who are using 1200w inverters just fine. I
know it isn't the motor because that's brand new. Could it be my
battery? I just don't know. For now, I'm back to using customer
power which is really embarrassing considering I have a van now.
Any help will be greatly appreciated...
prmirage
- posted 16 years ago