How to Cross-Reference a Gearmotor or Motor After Discontinuation

Selection guide

Selection guide 2026-08-31

When a gearmotor or motor model is withdrawn, searching for the exact part number often hits a dead end — the series may be discontinued or the type code restructured. The faster route is cross-referencing: capture the electrical and mechanical attributes that define the unit and match them to a current alternative. This guide covers what to read from the nameplate and how to turn it into a replacement specification.

What defines interchangeability

A motor or gearmotor is defined by its duty and how it mounts. Capture these before looking for a substitute:

ParameterWhy it matters
PowerkW rating sets the frame and cooling
SpeedRated rpm and, for gearmotors, the output rpm after reduction
MountingB3 (foot), B5 (flange), B14 (face) — decides fit
RatioGearbox ratio and output shaft form (solid, hollow, keyed)
SupplyVoltage, frequency and phase (e.g. 230 V / 400 V, 50/60 Hz, 1/3-phase)
BrakeBuilt-in holding brake required or not
FeedbackEncoder / resolver for servo and closed-loop types

A clear nameplate photo is usually enough for a specialist to propose a match.

Notes by motor type

How a cross-reference is built

  1. Record the original type code and capture the nameplate photo.
  2. List power, speed and mounting (B3/B5/B14).
  3. For gearmotors, note the ratio and output shaft form.
  4. Confirm supply and whether a brake is needed.
  5. Match the feedback (encoder/resolver) for servo types, then bench-test.

Why use a sourcing specialist

A given duty is met by several manufacturers with equivalent specs — ROSSI, Baumüller and Esitron cover common gearmotor, servo and stepper types. A sourcing partner keeps multiple brands on file, checks the candidate against your nameplate, supplies procurement documentation, and can often ship a stocked equivalent within a day or two instead of waiting on a long factory lead time.

Get a quote

If you have a motor or gearmotor number — current or obsolete — send it with a nameplate photo. We return a cross-reference suggestion, price and lead time, typically within one business day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to cross-reference a gearmotor?
Record the power in kW, the speed in rpm, the mounting (B3/B5/B14), the gearbox ratio and output shaft form, the supply (voltage, frequency, phase), whether a brake is needed, and a nameplate photo. The nameplate usually settles the equivalent.
Can a servo motor be replaced with a stepper or induction motor?
Not directly. The drive and feedback differ — a servo needs a matching drive and encoder, while a stepper runs open-loop. Confirm the motion profile and the controller before substituting so the replacement actually fits the application.
How quickly can I get a cross-referenced motor?
Send the nameplate with a photo. We return a cross-reference suggestion, price and lead time, usually within one business day, and a stocked equivalent can often ship within a day or two instead of waiting on a long factory lead time.
gearboxservo motorcross-referencereplacement

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