I’d take some pictures of the motor plaque. That plaque is the key to what motor is on the machine. Also take a picture of the wiring in the main box of the mill. And post those in the electrical section of this site. Some real sharp guys on that section. I’m confident you’ll get some good answers there.
nice mill. Sharp is a good machine. I like Japanese products. Always top notch in my opinion.
This is our electrical section for discussions of power options for your machines & home shop. If you want to know about wiring, motors, VFDs and other devices, this is the place to ask.
www.hobby-machinist.com
Attached is a picture. Not really any better in person.
It's definitely a one voltage motor I'm certain it's been rewound. Only three wires coming out of the motor. Wishful thinking I even took the top bearing plate off hoping I would find some more .
I have had two quotes for a rewind $2000 and $1100. I called Sharp to ask what a new motor would cost..... $$$? $1312 and change. Comes with the drive pulley.
I ended up talking not a technician. And in perfect chinglish, he told me that the original motors had problems. The shafts would vibrate and wear out. BTW not a jab to the Tiwanese fella I talked to. I have a english as a third language Asian wife. I do seem to have an ear ear for broken english.
I have the motor out now and was, in a weird way hoping I would find a worn out shaft to make my decision for me . It looks just fine. I haven't measured anything yet but it looks pretty good.
So as it looks to me cheapest route.
Transformer and 480 volt VFD.
Next rewind keep the VFD that I already have. And the likelihood that I will ever run this thing long enough to wear the motor shaft out is remote.
Then there is the peace of mind that would come with the brand new and improved motor. With the new drive parts.
It's a lot of money either way I go. But it's mine now.