I have a 15 hp 3phase 460 volt motor made by century electric (which I believe is now AO Smith) According to the name plate the bearings are 309 and 207. This motor was built around 1986.

This motor does not have drain plugs at either end. And instead of grease zerks it has plugs. I have no reason to beleive this motor was ever opened up.

I would like to find out what the correct procedure is for lubing it.

I guess it is possible that the bearings are sealed and are not intended to be lubed. But several years ago when this piece of equipment became my responsibility, the motor sounded kind of rough. At that point I removed the plugs and filled them with grease. The motor became quiet and has run fine ever since. I was also adding a little bit of grease once a year ever since.
I am interested in refining the process on this piece of equipment. One way to find out what I have I guess would be to open up the motor and see. However I was hoping someone would be familiar with this type of motor and be able to tell me what the proper procedure is.

Within the last year this piece of equipment has slowly become more critical to our manufacturing process and I am taking a closer look at it in an effort to prevent breakdowns.

Nevin,

I can't offer specific advise, but consider the possibility that motor has sealed bearings and cannot be greased.

Walt