TR2/3/3A Balancing a TR3 fan assembly

[Tinkerman]

I know there is a thread out there on this subject because I started it, but I can't find it. I just want to mentioned what I have done, the conclusions I have come to and If any of you feel that I might be correct.
Talked to a couple of automotive machine shops and one of the fellows told me about the method of spinning the fan on a rod and if it is out of balance the heavy blade would drop to the bottom. You then put the weight on the opposite blade and it should level out. Makes sense to me.
I found a shaft that is slightly smaller than the fan, slicked it up with slickum and tried it out. Did it quite a number of times and it was a total random blade at the bottom everytime. All things being equal I would have to come to the conclusion that the assembly is in balance, right? Or am I leaving something out?
Your sage advise, thoughts and insites would be deeply appreciated.

Thanks, Tinkerman

 

[Twosheds]

That's the way they static balance airplane propellers, so it would make sense that it would work for fans.

The shaft rolls on a stand that has sharp edges to reduce any friction that might give false results.

 

[Tinkerman]

Thanks John, I might have the friction problem. My next step is to smooth the interior of the fan hub and see if that changes the results.
Tinkerman

 

[PeterK]

Go to HD and buy a lawn mover blade balancer. It's a metal pointed cone and easy to do.

Originally, after assembly and balancing at the factory they drilled a tiny hole through the fan and the hub to mark it's balanced position. If yours is original then see if the holes line up and try it.

 

[Tinkerman]

This is a NOS fan bought on ebay.

 

[PeterK]

Then try the mower blade balancer. Akin to a bubble balance for tire to provide an accurate static balance.

 

[Tinkerman]

Bought it today, Peter and I am happy to say that all is in balance and harmony. $5.98 from Lowe's, no HD here. PLUS I got a mower blade sharpening gizmo with it.

Thanks for the tip!

Tinkerman

 

[PeterK]

Glad it worked out and only cost $6!