Listing changed to FREEOk, fair enough. I wasn't trying to be vague or evasive, but I just wanted to see if anyone was interested before documenting a bunch of dirty laundry for the world to read. But since people are interested, here goes.
I was the Fortis dealer in the U.S. for 4 years. We had several problems with the product and with the manufacturer, and we have decided to part company. So I'm no longer listed as their dealer.
The problem with these turbines is they don't have proper overspeed control. Therefore the alternators see voltage that is way too high, they overheat, insulation fails, and you get a short. I've never pulled one apart, but I'm guessing you could pull it open, pull out the windings, lay up new windings (if you have experience with that sort of thing obviously), and be ready to roll. As noted in the listing, the bearings and magnets on most of them are in great condition.
I have no use for them and I have no interest in trying to repair them - I've got enough other projects on my plate. But I consider scrapping them to be a waste of an otherwise good alternator. So if someone is a motivated DIY person and wants to tinker on a project and end up with a couple of good alternators, I thought it would be worthwhile.
I'm sorry to violate the terms of the group. I'm not trying to be a hassle or take advantage of anyone. If I scrap them at my local yard, they would give me $0.20 per pound (electric motor rate). Therefore, I'd end up with around $320.
So,
I'll give them away for nothing. Arrange for shipping or come pick them up and you can have them. Once you look them over and decide what to do, you can donate $320 to a local charity if you would like.
Any questions, please feel free to contact me directly and I'll help how I can.
I'll post some pictures soon.
Alex Hagen
Weaver Wind Energy
(Formerly Fortis Wind Energy - U.S.)
102 Cherry Street, Ithaca NY 14850
607-379-9463
ahagen@weaverwindenergy.com
www.weaverwindenergy.com