Posted 3 years ago
Heathernic…
(1 item)
I just moved into a little studio apartment and my $15 fan broke! I was scrolling through a local give away site and saw that a fan had been listed as free as long as you were willing to pick it up. The listing warned that it was old but still worked and wasn't particularly kid friendly. I decided to go for it and was so confused with what I found. Any fan experts out there that can tell me more about this cool fan?
Vintage GE Oscillating fan that still works. It sounds like an airplane and I'm pretty sure it would take my dog's tail off. Not sure if it's the original wiring and not sure exactly how to tell.
It is:
Type: AO
Form: AO1
No: E224668
Spec: 272070-1
Does anyone have a fan like this? I barely know anything about it.
GREAT SNAG of a GREAT FAN, Heather!! It is certainly "collectable" and it shouldn't be difficult to find more specific info about it, there's lots of antique fan collector websites and info out there. Use that 'type' on the label to narrow the search, G.E. info should be easy. :-)
The power cord and plug shown have certainly been replaced, presumably correctly if it works without creating sparks/fire. :-) If the short bit of twisty wire between the base and motor have *not* been replaced they should be examined closely at least, I can't see for sure in the pic but once more, if it isn't on fire, it's probably good at least for the moment...?
It would certainly be a good idea to give it a few drops of fresh oil if it is still running completely freely, if it is the slightest bit sticky or gummy when starting and stopping it might want to have its motor disassembled and bearings serviced. Nothing about doing that is difficult nor should be expensive to have done at an electrical shop.
CONGRATULATIONS -- it admittedly isn't even close to 'kid friendly' by today's safety standards, but it has also already lived a lifespan likely a few multiples longer than your own could be, and with the slightest further care will no doubt be ready to do it again for you -- try THAT with anybody's modern $15 discount-store fan??!! <LOL>
Oh and PS -- believe it or not your dog will figure out to beware of it *real quick* all by himself, and even visiting kids tend to be wary of noisy old fans like it. Even if they're *not* at first, it'll *only* be that very first time they reach out to try and grab it, **THEN** they'll never try to touch it ever again... <LOLOL>
Its from about 1920. You will need a special oil which you can find on ebay.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/194450364105?hash=item2d462516c9:g:Ht8AAOSwuq9ZYQHj
Marvel Mystery Oil is best or, strange as it may sound, Intensive Care hand lotion. Never use household oils.
Congratulaations on getting a magnificent collectible fan which as a focal point in any room it is in, it should garner much attention !~
great find. It looks quite early.
I use a turbo-type of lubricant on my fans. Bb2 also had a good suggestion with Marvel Mystery oil, it ungums the works to make a quieter and speedier blade.
Careful.... It can give a harsh bite if you, your children, or pets get too close.
Living in the tropics, we learn from other people's mistakes.