Knapp Monarch Somersault Fan

[variflexpghpa]

A unique trash find.   A Knapp Monarch Duo Aire fan.    Great example of 50s -60s American engineering and ingenuity.  It is designed to be a floor and hassock fan all in one.  When the cage is rotated, the motor/blades rotate upward to become a hassock fan... how totally cool.  This one however is going to need some extensive rehab in order to run again.  

 

In its previous life, someone hacked the wiring, and the motor then when up in a blaze of glory.  Since the K/M parts department is long closed, are there any suggestions of finding a replacement suitable motor.  The motor is held in place with 2 "U" shaped brackets, which clamp and hold it in place. So if a motor similar in diameter, with same shaft size could be found, the Duo Aire could live on. 

 

Even if the replacement motor is one speed; a rheostat could be used to adjust the speed.

 

I've included some pictures, and would certainly appreciate any help, suggestions etc on locating a motor.

 

Thanks

 

 

[cfz2882]

cool-looks early 1950s to me,should be easy to find suitable replacement motor though original is 2 pole normally ~3000 RPM,but may be meant to run closer to 2500 with blade on.Is shaft 1/4? .I think it would be a really nice quiet fan if a 1550 RPM motor was installed-especially with the interleaved blades.

 

[tolivac]

I would bet that Grainger could supply a replacement motor for your fan.They carry a large selection of fan and blower motors.

 

[variflexpghpa]

Duo Aire Re Do

Pleasantly surprised that I was able to find a suitable replacement motor so easily. Found the motor on Zoro.

With a fresh updated paint job, the fan is very cool and a definite conversation piece.

 

[rp2813]

Wow -- That was fast! 

 

Beautiful job!  You have given that fan a personality that it was seriously lacking!

 

[circlew]

I like it!

 

[stricklybojack]

.
Nice work!