Milling machine elect. motor issue

[another Todd]

I have an older (Taiwan I think) milling machine which I use occasionally. I has a 2 HP 220 volt motor which has started to throw flames out of the bottom of the motor when I start it up, but never while running. It never fails to start just throws a flash of flame out. It has separate start and run windings. Is the problem the start windings breaking down? Can these be rewound or is it better to just replace the motor?

 

[tom slick]

It's the starter circuit contacts, not the windings. You can call your local motor shop and get their opinion.
My local motor shop is quite expensive and has no problem telling you that it is cheaper to replace motors that are under 5 hp than it is for them to rebuild them.

 

[Michael_P]

Happened on my Millport. It was an over oiled motor.

 

[another Todd]

Hmmm,Michael were you able to just clean it with electrical contact cleaner spray?

 

[Michael_P]

Tore the top cap off and used compressed air. I did use some CRC electrical cleaner but not near the windings. Even the most benign degreasers can have a negative effect on windings.