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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Feb 2008
    Posts
    21

    Busy bee b1976

    Guys,i just purchased this machine:
    http://busybeetools.ca/cgi-bin/picture10?NTITEM=B1976

    i pick it up this weekend.my question is does anyone know if it can be converted to 110v? i spoke to three different stores and not one could tell me.i would really appreciate any input.i need to know if shop or machine needs to be rewired.

    thanks fella's

  2. #2
    Join Date
    Apr 2005
    Posts
    281
    I have the 1977 and run it on 220. I don't think it can be changed over. I installed a plug by my panel and ran an extension cord to it. The cord is 12 guage about 15 ft. long and runs fine. If you check yours I think you will notice the cord is 14 guage and you can use one of the lighter 20 amp plugs.
    John

  3. #3
    Join Date
    Oct 2005
    Posts
    61
    I almost bought one of those and remember checking that out, if you read the rating plate on the motor you will find it says 110V and 220V.
    I'm pretty sure it is just a matter of switching some wires in the junction box.
    It will draw more amps at 110V but a 15A circuit should do it.

  4. #4
    Join Date
    Feb 2008
    Posts
    21
    Thanks fella's!

    Metalbyter: i really hope thats the case!! i'd much rather switch a few wires on the machine then in the shop

  5. #5
    Join Date
    Jun 2004
    Posts
    6618
    If it is doable, it should have a schematic on how it's done inside the motor connection cover or box. If it does say 110/220, then it should just be a matter of wiring.
    Lee

  6. #6
    Join Date
    Apr 2005
    Posts
    281
    My motor has the 110/220 on the plate but what stopped me from going to the lower voltage was the amp requirement printed on it. The 220 side is 16 amps and the 110 side is 20 amps. Was not going to take the chance of overheating the wire in the walls.
    John

  7. #7
    Join Date
    Oct 2005
    Posts
    61
    That amperage rating sounds a little high, it is a 1 HP motor so 750W/HP
    at 110V that is 6.8182 amps even allowing for inefficiency's 15 amps should be enough.

  8. #8
    Join Date
    Jun 2004
    Posts
    6618
    Typically when you will have the highest amp draw is on start up only. It will also do it when under extreme load. I wouldn't worry about burning up any wiring as long as you have a good circuit panel that isn't ancient. The circuit breakers will take care of the wiring. If it pops the breaker on start up, then you have to worry about another circuit.
    Now it may blow the breaker when under extreme load like a spindle bind, but I think that could be a good thing. Just don't have any cnc stuff connected in the same circuit.
    Lee

  9. #9
    Join Date
    Feb 2008
    Posts
    21
    I'm not to worried about drawing to much amps.i run a 1600w heatreat oven,1 1/2hp 2x72" belt grinder with no problems.only thing that has popped breaker are welders.as long as the machine can be converted to 110v i'll be happy,as i have no experience rewiring breaker for 220v.

  10. #10
    Join Date
    Jun 2006
    Posts
    2512
    I think its peak on start-up, which is not necessarily a problem for the wiring but might blow/trip the breaker.

    Phil

    Quote Originally Posted by metalbyter View Post
    That amperage rating sounds a little high, it is a 1 HP motor so 750W/HP
    at 110V that is 6.8182 amps even allowing for inefficiency's 15 amps should be enough.

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