ROD BUILDING TIPS
Drying Motor

By Brian Ahern, Helena, Montana

I have often been asked how to make a drying motor, and have also found this to be a frequent question on various web site bulletin boards. As a result I felt it may be of some use to put together instructions on how mine was done. A drying motor can be constructed with the basic around the house tools at a cost of about $25.00.

Required Tools

    1. Drill & Bits

    2. 2 in Hole saw.

    3. Miter box with a back saw ($12.95 at Wal-Mart).

    4. Screw driver.

Materials list

    1. 36 RPM drying motor $12.95 (Jann's Netcraft)

    2. Wood stock 4in X 2 ft X 1/2in 1 each (I use poplar from the local lumber yard $2.49 Each).

    3. Electrical cord $1.95.

    4. Screws.

    5. Self stick felt.

Instructions

The instructions for this are straight forward.

The stock that I use comes sized for length and width at ½ inch thick and is available in Pine, Oak, Poplar and Ash. By purchasing the material in this manner all cuts can be made with a Back Saw and a Miter box.

The V cut on the support is accomplished with the back saw. The cut for the motor was done with a hole saw and the motor has its own mounting flange.

For a cord a replacement cord was used and the connections were covered with small shrink tubing. An on/off switch can be added if one wishes. The spindle on this motor will accept a self-centering chuck if one wishes.

When building a rod the last step for me is to secure the reel seat. Making this my last step accomplishes two things. First I do not have the weight to deal with and second I use old blanks cut to various lengths to secure the rod to the motor thus saving about $22.95. I pick up the old blanks for $5.00 at the pawn shop.

For an Epoxy I use U-40 LS Supreme (Dura Gloss) and apply it with Box Wood modeling tools. Replacement syringes can be purchased at a farm and ranch supply for about $.29 each.

I hope this Drying Motor works as well for you as it has for me and that the cost is within a range that you can accept. Since all things can be improved. If you find a modification that makes for better operation, let me know so it can be shared with all. ~ Brian Ahern (Rovercat)


	

Publishers note:
If you have any tips or techniques, send them along! Help out your fellow rodmakers! ~ Publisher, FAOL

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