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L&R vari-matic basket motor

JGrainger
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JGrainger WRT Addict

JGrainger

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I’ve recently managed to acquire two vari-matics which are both in different states of disrepair. One thing they do both have in common is the lack of the basket motor, plug, and basket hanger/spring. I’m looking at options of how to sort this out but there are some things to overcome..

firstly, if anyone has a spare motor with the cable , plug, and basket hanger, I might be interested in just buying it.. or even just the correct plug.. working or not.

failing that though, I could machine a motor housing for a sewing machine or unimat motor.. however there are a couple of bits of info which would be handy.

Does anyone have a picture of the plug?  Does anyone have clear pictures or a drawing of how the oscillating switch assembly functions (so as to stand a better chance of making one)?

 

Thank you, Jonathan 

 

A9CABBAF-B428-4DC0-AF6E-B325DAA3D8C5.jpeg

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JGrainger WRT Addict

JGrainger

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11 hours ago, oldhippy said:

Is this any help for you.

https://watchsupplyhouse.com/lr-varimatic-watch-cleaning-machine-operating-manual

I had one of these and it was the best watch cleaning machine I ever had. 

Thank you for sending the manual.

The manual is handy to have but unfortunately doesn’t show a closeup of how the basket motor switch works in order to allow oscillation. Looking at  a video on YouTube shows there’s a cam operated switch but the picture quality is a bit poor to actually make out the cam follower arm assembly. I’ll probably just have to design one but seeing an original would be handy.

In terms of the plug, I’m going to try installing a Din panel mount socket as that should be easier than trying to find an old L&R plug to fit the original socket.

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oldhippy Distinguished Member

oldhippy

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I did look in the Manuel and there is a section about switches, don't know if that helps. I know clockboy has one of those cleaners which isn't working, you could contact him to see if he could take a few photos of what you need to help you.  

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JGrainger WRT Addict

JGrainger

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3 hours ago, oldhippy said:

I did look in the Manuel and there is a section about switches, don't know if that helps. I know clockboy has one of those cleaners which isn't working, you could contact him to see if he could take a few photos of what you need to help you.  

Thank you, I've just messaged him.

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JGrainger

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On 6/5/2022 at 7:32 AM, CJMiller said:

Here are some photos of the plug. the first two are the motor cable. The second pair are the switch at the machine. These are from an early machine without the ultrasonic.

plug1.jpg

Thank you for posting the pictures.

Just looking at the 2nd machine, it runs (albeit without the basket motor).

It's grounded so I'll probably run it as is, with some DIY cleaner, meanwhile, re-wiring the 1st machine and going through the mechanicals.. and saving up for the L&R solutions.

Afterwards I'll restore the 2nd machine - should be able to get going this way.

In terms of disassembly, the carrousel can be removed by removing an e-clip with needle nose pliers. It appears the induction motor and worm drive are the next things to be removed (which don't effect the timing).

It looks possible to then remove and lift aside the microswitches (keeping them fastened to each other with some tape or nuts on the screws). It appears the cam assembly might be removable in one piece with the top plate (held by screws to the column and hydraulic reservoir)..

The wiring plan will be to build up a wiring loom with new switches and wire, then drop it in as one once the chassis is clean..

I need to double check more stuff - will report back later in the week 🙂

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