Changing 3 phase to single on Mohawk 2 post lift

[Goldhawg]

I'm looking at a used mohawk lift but it has a 3-phase motor. I understand that folks have changed 3-phase to single phase and it really makes sense on drill presses, band saws, etc so you can change the speed too. I'm wondering about that with a lift, or if I'm stuck buying a new motor. Saw a price list that it looks like about $700-1k for a new single phase motor. Thoughts on how hard this is to work in my garage?
http://www.mohawklifts.com/wp/common-parts/

TIA

 

[BCreekDave]

Much is said about VFD's on machine tools in relation to speed control and they do work well there, but nothing says that you can't just use them as an inexpensive (relatively) means of phase conversion. For sub 5 hp applications I think they are more effective and efficient than roto phase style converters. The ultimate would be to swap out the three phase motor for a single phase and sell the three phase on CL, but in my area they don't sell very well.


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[kunkernator]

You can also buy a phase convertor fairly cheap. Depending on the motor HP rating would male it more or less expensive. The only disadvantage is that most phase convertors run at 2/3rd rated power.


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[454ragtop]

The tag on the motor with all the specs should reveal whether to swap out the motor, or run it off a phase converter or VFD. If a standard motor, should be able to find one for considerably less than $700.

 

[Goldhawg]

Thanks for feedback. I'm exploring this with seller now.