User: Bigrocks, Location: Canada
Asked on: Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 6:55 pm EDT
Answered on: Saturday, May 3, 2025 at 7:14 pm EDT
Question: Hello,I am trying to obtain a couple different (and very old) magnetic contactors. One is a Canadian General Electric CR105AP4CA size 4 240v coil. The other is a size 5 CR205AP5 240v coil. Managed to find a control instructions sheet but would like to find one of each. Anybody ever see anything like this? Link below to sheet.Thanks!Control manual
You're on a challenging quest! Finding specific, old electrical components like that can be difficult, but not impossible. Here's a breakdown of where you might look and some things to consider
Where to Look for These Vintage Contactors:
Industrial Surplus Dealers
This is your best bet. These companies specialize in buying and selling used and surplus industrial equipment. Search online for "industrial surplus [your city/region]" or "used electrical equipment" and contact them with the model numbers. Be prepared to send them the photos from the control instruction sheet.
Online Auction Sites (eBay, etc.)
Search frequently using the full model numbers (CR105AP4CA, CR205AP5), and variations like "GE size 4 contactor", "Canadian General Electric Contactor", etc. Save your searches and set up email alerts to be notified when new listings appear.
Electrical Supply Houses (especially smaller, older ones)
Call around to local electrical supply houses, especially those that have been around for a long time. They might have old stock sitting on a shelf or know someone who does.
Metal Recycling Centers/Scrap Yards
This is a long shot, but sometimes old equipment ends up at scrap yards. Check with larger yards that handle industrial equipment.
Forums and Online Communities
Electrical and industrial maintenance forums can be a surprisingly good resource. Post your request in relevant forums; someone might have one in their shop or know where to find one. Examples: PLCTalk.net MikeHolt.com Electrical Forum
Electrical Repair Shops
Shops that repair large motors and industrial equipment might have a source for these or be able to rebuild a damaged contactor.
Things to Consider & Be Prepared For
Condition
These are old components. Expect to clean them, potentially replace worn parts (contacts are a common wear item), and thoroughly test them before using them.
Documentation
You already have some, which is great. Look for any other documentation you can find on those models – wiring diagrams, application notes, etc.
Price
Expect to pay more than you would for a new, modern contactor with similar functionality. Scarcity drives up the price of vintage items.
Compatibility
Verify that the voltage, current rating, and coil voltage are exactly what you need. Double-check the wiring diagram to ensure you understand how it's supposed to be connected.
Alternatives
Consider whether a modern replacement might be a better option, even if it requires some wiring changes. A new contactor will be more reliable and have readily available replacement parts. If you decide to go this route, consult with a qualified electrician to ensure the replacement is safe and compatible with your existing system.
Key Search Terms
Canadian General Electric Contactor GE CR105AP4CA Contactor GE CR205AP5 Contactor Size 4 Contactor Size 5 Contactor 240V Contactor Coil Vintage Electrical Contactor Industrial Contactor Used Electrical Equipment Surplus Electrical Equipment
Example Search Strategies
eBay
"GE CR105AP4CA" (save the search, and set up email alerts). Also try "GE Size 4 Contactor", "Vintage GE Contactor", etc.
Google
"Industrial Surplus [your city] GE CR105AP4CA"
Forums: Post a message stating you are looking for a CR105AP4CA and a CR205AP5 contactor.Good luck with your search! It may take some time and effort, but persistence is key. Flag for review