QuestionQUESTION: Unit has developed a short somewhere (blows circuit breaker as soon as I pull power trigger). Upon disassembly, I discovered a full-wave rectifier in the circuit, so this apparently has a DC motor. My question is, if the rectifier has failed can it be the cause of the short or should I keep looking for the short somewhere else?
ANSWER: I would replace the rectifier. Is there a part number on the rectifier? You can buy a general purpose rectifier from Radio Shack and most any other electrical suppliers. You don't have to find the exact rectifer but the replacement must be able to handle the min voltage and current as the old one.
Just pay attention to the wire connections...the rectifier will be marked.
Let me know if a new rectifer fixes the problem.
Forgot to ask, can you turn the motor and auger by hand...need to make sure nothing is binding or seized.
Eric
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QUESTION: There is no part number on the rectifier but my owners manual shows a manufacturer's part number (probably not available - this was built in '85).
The auger, drive gears and motor all turn freely by hand.
Thanks.
AnswerI'm betting the rectifer is similar to this one:
http://www.amazon.com/Parts-Express-400V-Bridge-Rectifier/dp/B0002KRDPI
It might be a 35A 600 PIP regulator...check out this link:
http://www.selfhelpforums.com/archive/index.php/t-17429.html
You should be able to find a rectifer for less than $5.00.
Eric
