[Coach B.A.D.]

I think it is great that you have the curiousity and drive to improve the motor performance. Under water? Well - after almost 30 years as an engineer - that sends shivers down my spine! When you tested the motor -if the moisture was still in the bearings and or casing that will get in the bearings (and no matter what solvent you use - there is always extra water). Consider that the ease of turning may have been because there may be water in the bearings - however, the water will wear away the bearing finish not to mention the corrosion that will no doubt occur in time and create more friction. The copper commutator contacts will corrode in time and provide resistance in the contact area. Of course, if your motors have as short a life as my 2 FTC teams - well, may not necessarily be a factor.

One question - did you compare the torque before and after while watching the current?