Building a Drying Motor by Brian Ahern I have often been asked how to make a drying motor, and have also found this to be a frequent question on various web site bulletin boards. As a result I felt it may be of some use to put together instructions on how mine was done. A drying motor can be constructed with the basic around the house tools at a cost of about $15.00 Required Tools 1. Drill & Bits 2. 2 in Hole saw. 3. Miter box with a back saw ($12.95 at Wal-Mart). 4. Screw driver. Materials list 1. Drying motor http://www.surplusecenter.com/    Surplus Center has motors of every description for a good price. Ex. 40 rpm Continuous use $3.99 2. Wood stock 4in X 2 ft X 1/2in 1 each (I use poplar from the local lumber yard $2.49 each). 3. Electrical cord $1.95. 4. Screws. 5. Self stick felt. Instructions The instructions for this are straight forward. The stock that I use comes sized for length and width at ½ inch thick and is available in Pine, Oak, Poplar and Ash. By purchasing the material in this manner all cuts can be made with a Back Saw and a Miter box. The V cut on the support is accomplished with the back saw. The cut for the motor was done with a hole saw and the motor has its own mounting flange. For a cord a replacement cord was used and the connections were covered with small shrink tubing. An on/off switch can be added if one wishes. The spindle on this motor will accept a self-centering chuck if you prefer that method. When building a rod the last step for me is to secure the reel seat. Making this my last step accomplishes two things. First I do not have the weight to deal with and second I use old blanks cut to various lengths to secure the rod to the motor thus saving about $22.95. In the past I pick up the old blanks for $5.00 at the pawn shop. For an Epoxy I use U-40 LS Supreme (Dura Gloss) and apply it with Box Wood modeling tools. Replacement syringes can be purchased at a farm and ranch supply for about $.29 each. I hope this Drying Motor works as well for you as it has for me and that the cost is within a range that you can accept. Since all things can be improved. If you find a modification that makes for better operation, let us know so it can be shared with all. ~ Brian Ahern (Rovercat)        Hatches Magazine Subscription Price: $6.95 for each issue The Premiere issue is ready for shipping & the Fall 2008 issue will be available September 1st. Hatches Magazine Subscription Price: $6.95 for each issue The Premiere issue is ready for shipping & the Fall 2008 issue will be available September 1st.