WHAT TO DO
1. First, make a list of all the electric motors that work for your home. You may wish to make a separate list for your farm buildings. You'll probably be surprised at how many there are. Don't forget the sewing machine, the refrigerator, the freezer, the vacuum cleaner and other small but important motors. Don't touch any motor that is running. Disconnect them before you touch them.
2. Make a motor service chart with columns headed: Use, Location, Horsepower, Volts, Amperes, Service Required, Date Serviced and What was Done. (See sample) Then list all the motors that require any servicing. Some will have the instructions on the motor or appliance; the instruction booklet that came with the motor or appliance will also tell what servicing is required.
Step 1. Plan the job. Start with the motors in the home. Then you can care for the motors on the farm.
Step 2. Be sure that any motor on which you are going to work is disconnected. Then wipe the outside case clean with a cloth. If the motor has openings in the end, use a vacuum cleaner to suck out dust, dirt or chaff. A tire pump may also be used to blow out this dirt. If you use compressed air, be sure the pressure is not high as it may damage wiring inside the motor. Dust-proof motors should be used in dusty or dirty places.
Step 3.
If there are oil holes, oil according to the manufacturer's instructions.
If there are no instructions, remember a little oil goes a long way as far as motors are concerned. Motors of less than one horsepower require only 3 or 4 drops (not squirts) of oil every 3 or 4 months if the motor is used frequently. Too much oil can damage the motor. It spoils the insulation.
If there are no oil holes or grease cups on the motor, it is probably lubricated by means of grease sealed in the bearings at the factory, or it may use greaseless bearings, and does not need to be oiled or greased periodically. Indicate on your chart all motors which need periodic care and see that it is given according to schedule.