Care and Repair of Fractional-Horsepower Motors (1936)

The Problem This Book Solves

Fractional-horsepower motors power countless appliances, tools, and small machines. When they fail, finding reliable repair information—especially for older models—can be nearly impossible. Modern guides often ignore these workhorses, leaving technicians and hobbyists without practical solutions. This classic 1936 manual fills that gap, offering step-by-step instructions for diagnosing, maintaining, and restoring fractional-horsepower motors to working order.

Inside Care and Repair of Fractional-Horsepower Motors (1936): A Full Overview

Published by the International Textbook Company as part of their renowned Bluebook series, this volume was designed for home study. Written by Andrew G. Smith, an experienced electrical engineer, it systematically covers every aspect of fractional-horsepower motor care. From basic construction and operating principles to advanced repair techniques like rewinding and commutator servicing, the book provides a complete education. Its clear, lesson-based format makes complex topics accessible, whether you are a seasoned electrician or a curious beginner.

Is This Book Right for You?

This book is ideal for a wide range of readers who work with small electric motors:

• Electricians and motor repair technicians seeking practical, time-tested methods
• Hobbyists restoring vintage machinery, fans, or tools
• Collectors of antique electrical equipment who need authentic repair knowledge
• Engineering students interested in historical motor design and maintenance
• Facility maintenance staff responsible for small motors in pumps, conveyors, and HVAC
• Anyone who values self-reliance and wants to extend the life of their equipment

What You Will Learn

This manual delivers actionable knowledge you can apply immediately. Here are seven critical skills you will master:

• Motor construction and types — Understand series, shunt, compound, and universal motors
• Testing and troubleshooting — Use simple tools to locate faults in windings, bearings, and circuits
• Rewinding armatures — Step-by-step procedures for removing and replacing coils
• Repairing field coils — Techniques for re-insulating and rewinding field magnets
• Bearing maintenance — Cleaning, repacking, and replacing sleeve and ball bearings
• Commutator and brush care — Resurfacing, undercutting mica, and selecting proper brushes
• Safety practices — Essential precautions when working with electrical equipment

What Sets It Apart

Modern motor repair guides focus heavily on electronic controls and variable-frequency drives. They often skip the fundamentals of fractional-horsepower motors—especially older designs still in daily use. This 1936 classic covers exactly what those guides omit: direct-current and single-phase AC motors, hand-wound armatures, and mechanical governors. Its lesson-based structure (each chapter builds on the last) mirrors a classroom course, making learning systematic. No other single resource combines such depth with such practical, era-authentic instruction. For anyone working with vintage or simple motors, this book is irreplaceable.

Behind the Book

Andrew G. Smith (1890–?) was a respected electrical engineer and educator. His expertise in motor design and repair is evident in the precise, clear explanations throughout the text. The International Textbook Company, founded in the early 20th century, was a leading publisher of technical education materials. Their Bluebook series was famous for rigorous, self-paced courses used by thousands of professionals. This book represents the best of that tradition—a trusted, authoritative source that has stood the test of time.

Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. If you own or service fractional-horsepower motors—especially those built before the 1970s—this book is an essential reference. Its methods are proven, its language is direct, and its content is unique. While modern electronics have changed some aspects of motor control, the core mechanical and electrical principles remain unchanged. For the price of a single service call, you gain a lifetime of repair knowledge. We recommend it without reservation.

Add Care and Repair of Fractional-Horsepower Motors (1936) to Your Library

Whether you are a professional electrician or a dedicated hobbyist, this manual gives you the confidence to tackle any fractional-horsepower motor repair. Vintage editions like this are increasingly hard to find—don’t miss your chance to own a piece of technical history. Order today and add this trusted 1936 guide from International Textbook Company to your workshop library.