Powermatic won't start question

Re: Powermatic won't start question

Dick Coers

What have you done for troubleshooting? Just telling us it won't start makes it tough. There are lots of less expensive options, but you need the ability to program and install the VFD. Do you have those kinds of skills?

Re: Powermatic won't start question

John C Lucas

Unplug the lathe and let it sit for 5 minutes. Then plug it in and try . The VFD steys on if you just turn the lathe off. It may need to reset jtself .

Three articles . . .

Doc Green

Three articles on the PM control circuitry:

http://www.docgreenwoodturner.com/pmcontrol1.html

Re: Three articles . . .

Ken chase

Thanks much for the articles. Much appreciated. I read the first and admit it's

Way over my head.

Do you suggest I find someone to open the unit and assess whether something in the

Wiring could be repaired or make the assumption a new inverter is required.

Best,

Ken

Re: Three articles . . .

Dick Coers

Does it show any fault codes? Are you sure there is current getting to the lathe? Are you sure the switch is okay? Do some basic trouble shooting before hiring an electrician. Having someone come out could double the cost.

Re: Powermatic won't start question

Bill McWhirter

I have had a problem with my 3520 not starting on several occasions. I have an accessory switch and 2-3 times dust in the switch has prevented it starting. I cleaned out on couple of times and finally replaced.

On another occasion, the main switch which is connected to the back of the large red button had died. If you feel comfortable doing it, undo panel with the red button and use a piece of insullated wire to "short" across the contacts to eliminate a bad switch as the problem. Grainger carries both switches for less than $20 and neither is not hard to replace. (be sure to unplug before replacing)

Good luck and I hope that it is cheap fix.

Re: Three articles . . .

Doc Green

Ken, you don't have to understand all the details in order to run the tests described in Part 2. In fact, two very important checks can be made even without a voltmeter - just use a short, insulated wire as shown in the photos.

If by doing the tests you can get the lathe to run, you then will know that the inverter is OK. That could save a bunch of money and possibly avoid the dreaded possibility that after you replace the inverter, the lathe still doesn't run.

If you are totally not at ease with making the checks yourself, call in a friend who has a bit of electrical experience to give you moral support. Perhaps a fellow turner or someone who works on cars, or air conditioners, etc.

Feel free to email me directly if you think I may be able to help.

Good Luck, ~Doc

Re: Powermatic won't start question

Barry L Elder

Is it plugged in? Is there power to the outlet?