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How to Troubleshoot a DC Motor Field

Put simply, a DC motor is a motor that runs on DC electricity, using vital components such as brushes, springs and a commutator to generate an electrical current. Major advantages of these motors are that they are cheap and predictable in their capacity. However, they can require maintenance and troubleshooting during periods of heavy use -- with the brushes and springs requiring particular attention.

Instructions

- 1
  Use a slotted screwdriver to remove the springs and brushes, allowing access to internal mechanisms and the inspection of the key parts of the motor. You should check the motor brushes are moving freely when disassembling and make sure the spring tension on all the brushes are about equal.
- 2
  Visually inspect the face of the brushes. The surface should be shiny and polished, which is indicative of good contact. If this is not the case and the surface appears worn, then you should consider replacing the part.
- 3
  Inspect the length of the brush. The general size of a DC motor brush is around 3/4 inch long. If the brush is notably shorter than this, there will be less spring tension.
- 4
  Inspect the brushes for any excess wear and damage that has been caused through rubbing. If these grooves are pronounced and the brushes seem exceedingly pitted, then consider replacement.

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