Servicing the 1/2 hp AO Smith motor for the first time to replace bearings, replace cord and repaint. Two questions:
1) Spring washer under front bearing fell out during removal before I could see orientation. Picture shows orientation I think should be correct as the downward “fingers” of washer contact outer race of bearing. Do I have it upside down? I also don’t understand the purpose of the spring washer as the bearing appears to be a press fit, so upon installing the new bearing, I suspect the washer will be fully compressed between faceplate and bearing, acting more like a shim washer…?
2) while everything is apart I plan to carefully blow out all debris in motor housing and windings, but while it’s apart, is it recommend to clean the stator and/or armature, or should they be left untouched? The last thing I want to do is ruin a perfectly working motor while trying to service it.
Any tips and trick to help me be successful in this effort would be greatly appreciated.
