It seems that sometimes you need three hands, to re-assemble some small electric motors. Here is an easy to make tool for holding carbon brushes in the correct position, so it is easy to fit them over the commutator.
Measure the distance that the brushes need to be held, drill a hole in a piece of wood, big enough to accommodate the rotor shaft and / or bearing. Nail some wire brads or nails in a pattern around the hole that will hold the brushes, without snagging on the brush holder assembly.
Use pliers to snip off the nail heads, so it is easy to slide the assembly off after the commutator has been slid into place.
Place the brush holder over the tool and slide the brushes back, so they are held by the nails. Slip the commutator in, then lift both the commutator and brush holder off the tool.
Reply With Quote