LT28 Power Feed Issue

WranglerSS · September 07, 2017, 07:52:54 AM

Started yesterday on a pine log. As I turn the dial to speed up the feed it hits a dead spot then surges. Any idea what to check? It seems like the potentiometer has gone bad.

WV Sawmiller · September 07, 2017, 08:38:27 AM

Check the belt tension. I just changed one last week that caused similar actions. Little 24" cogged belt. May just need to push the feed motor forward to tighten. There are 2 bolts in the cover and 3 in the motor if like mine. 7/16" wrench fits all. WM is very reasonable if you get replacement belt from them but other suppliers keep them too. Good luck.

pineywoods · September 07, 2017, 09:00:24 AM

That speed control potientiometer (commonly called a pot) is a normal wear item..
replacement from woodmizer comes with wires and plug already attached. Quick and easy fix...Just pull off the front panel..Pull the neg cable off the battery first...

Ben Cut-wright · September 08, 2017, 07:48:27 AM

Quote from: WranglerSS on September 07, 2017, 07:52:54 AM
Started yesterday on a pine log. As I turn the dial to speed up the feed it hits a dead spot then surges. Any idea what to check? It seems like the potentiometer has gone bad.

How repeatable is this dead spot? Does it ever stop or hesitate if you do not rotate it after forward motion is established? Have you checked to see if the drive motor is actually stopping or not?

Pots are easy to test with the right equipment, and sometimes they repeat open dead-spots with enough regularity to diagnosis. Loose connections can behave in the same manner you describe. Poor contact in the drum switch can do the same thing. Check to see if there are any chips or debris getting into the mechanicals.

Whitetail_Addict · September 08, 2017, 03:37:38 PM

I've had to take the motor apart to clean and lubricate things a couple of times. Condensation forms inside the housing and a thin film of rust causes parts to stick. I've also experienced rough and/or slow feed because of the battery. Make sure you charge it often. I've actually kept a solar charger on it the past couple of years that seems to help. Inside the power feed panel there should be a plastic cup with dielectric grease to maintain the electrical contacts.