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How to Identify Brushless DC Motors

Brushless motors offer more power and better durability than their brushed counterparts. These two types of motors are nearly identical, the only difference is the presence of brushes, which are designed to transfer electric current from the wires to the interior of the motor. Learn how to identify the brushless motor to ensure you are using the correct equipment.

Instructions

- 1
  Hold the motor with the main shaft pointed down toward the ground.
- 2
  Look at the end of the main part of the motor casing, also called the can, that is opposite of the motor shaft. This portion of the motor is called the end bell.
- 3
  Look for a pair of coiled wires running from the motor can to a short, rectangular slab of metal running perpendicular to the motor shaft. These coiled wires are the brushes. If you cannot find these coiled wires, then your motor is brushless.
- 4
  Look for three connector tabs bunched together on one side of the end bell. These three metal connector plates are also indicative of a brushless motor.

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