220 electrical help needed

In reply to internetautomart: It may be cheaper to get a single phase hydraulic pump for the lift. I have an older lift and hydraulic pump quit (sheared off at drive). I got a new style replacement pump off ebay for a couple hundred dollars from a reputable maunfacturer (I don't remember the name right now). It is a totally self contained unit with internal pressure relief, control, and the hydraulic tank. As a benefit I was able to move the pump and controls to the wall of the shop instead of the being lift mounted. This puts me at a much safer distance when lifting cars and it is more out of the way next to my air hose reel.

It thought you said you're quite sure you've got 3 phase- why would you need a phase converter?

internetautomart wrote: I have to screw with the wiring, how else will I learn? I ask questions to learn. (reverse that order though )

First off, you are right. You MUST reverse the order.

Secondly, I have worked with hundreds of electricians over the years (and am qualified myself). I've NEVER met a single one who learned how to work with 3 phase on an internet forum designed for car buffs.

and Third, the VERY FIRST lesson is reading and understanding the information on the data plate, NOT opening the panel box.

Call the berkeleying electrician. Ask HIM questions while you watch him do the work.

SVreX wrote: Call the berkeleying electrician. Ask HIM questions while you watch him do the work.

NO don't ask questions while he works that how mistakes are made. wait untill he's done.

If it's just to power a hrdrolic pump just buy a plow power pack. Cheaper then a motor if you don't have 3 phase.

https://www.surpluscenter.com/sort.asp?catname=hydraulic&keyword=HPPA

internetautomart wrote: I guess in one of my posting edits I forgot to leave in that I am pretty sure the motor is 3 phase based on color coding inside the box. I need to find a phase converter now or possibly get a 3 phase line run in here for it. I'll call the electrical co in a bit. I have to screw with the wiring, how else will I learn? I ask questions to learn. (reverse that order though )

Hold my beer and watch this!!

Sorry, Someone had to say it.

Me, I leave 3 phase to the guys who know exactly what it does. It's worth it to me to not wind up in a hospital bed with someone shaking me and saying 'Wake up, Stumpy'.

I'm still waiting on a call back from the electric company on whether or not I have 3 phase in the building.
I did recall a disconnect on the side wall marked "air compressor" with 3 hot lines coming into it (they are currently dead as we pulled their fuses during some prior electrical work) close up of label:

the main disconnect is painted over and I won't open the cover to it. So no data there.

the main fuse panel I am dealing with:

close up of data plate?

there is a tag inside the main box that lists what used to be on what fuse. one of them says 2 phase, another one below says something and then the number 3 but not the word phase after it.

All pics are available in higher res if requested.

The tag in the last photo says 120/208, which would indicate you have a three phase, 120/208vac service. However, I wouldn't guarantee that without inspecting it in person.

You've had plenty of good advice in this thread, all of it telling you that you need an electrician.

I will not offer further comment on your pictures. This is a crappy way to learn about dangerous industrial electricity.

If it means a lot for you to learn this, I suggest a trade school, apprenticeship, or related job. Not an internet forum for unrelated novices.

You are being stubborn, and someone could get hurt. If not you, someone who later has to follow your work.

Lift is wired up and working, no one was injured and no electricians were needed.

Congratulations.

thank you. i knew it could be done, just had to find the right info. Which I did on another car forum

I don't believe anyone said it could not be done.

I believe most people said that you should not do it.

With all due respect, that has not changed.

May I be the 1st to suggest paying an electrician to upgrade your electrical service to modern standards?