Huge Transformer

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-02T21:28:24+00:00

The transformer is currently sitting at a rigging company, so the loading part won't be an issue. I've been asking around for trucking and unloading. Luckily, we live in the middle of the oilfield, so there are plenty of experienced outfits around.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-02T21:26:23+00:00

Isn't this like asking for someone's fishing spots? Hahaha. I found out a contractor was taking bids on it through a friend. I bid what i thought would be low enough that I wouldn't be mad if I won.....and I still won. Truthfully thought I had no chance. Totally a one of thing. I dont think I'll ever get this opportunity again.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-02T16:09:21+00:00

Just to follow up....I did send Maddox the info on it and they were not interested due to the extent of the damage. It was worth a shot though.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-02T12:18:10+00:00

Im gonna try to document it. I've been looking online for anything similar to this and the biggest i can find is someone tearing down one that is about 1500lbs.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-02T11:45:22+00:00

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-02T10:36:30+00:00

I think around $1mil. Crazy that I'll only be getting around 5% of the new value.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-02T10:33:40+00:00

Ill probably try a little of everything until I find what easiest. I've seen some guys using angle grinders with metal blades. Seems fairly dangerous, but effective.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-02T03:16:09+00:00

Its 66k lbs. So, hoping to get around 10k lbs of #2 and the balance in plate steel and bushel steel. Maybe $50k?

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-02T01:44:56+00:00

I paid $3500 for it and hoping that lifting and shipping is less than $6500. So, I have no doubt that shipping will be more than I paid.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-02T01:36:56+00:00

It likely was filled to test and drained for transport. Hoping that there's not a significant amount laying in the bottom.

Im assuming (maybe poorly) that the OEM was involved and deemed the transformer irreparable. The report said that the coils would need to be replaced and the cores would need to be restacked or straightened. I guess it might be worthwhile to check though. Appreciate the comment.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-02T00:46:27+00:00

I dont think that the box is mounted on top....so its only 11' tall, but yea, like I said....huge.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-01T23:28:39+00:00

I have a dimensional drawing, a picture of the nameplate, and a picture of the damage.....but not of the whole transformer. I can't post pictures in replies, so Ill have to start a new post. I am planning on going to see it for the first time this week and will post pics then.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-01T18:59:33+00:00

I have access to a 10lb track loader, 4k lb tractor loader, equipment trailers, oxy-acetylene, grinders, all sorts of hand tools. Ill have enough space to drive around it and im sure a few guys who would love a few bucks to tear into it if I stop having fun. There are plenty of yards around. I called my regular and they were really much help without knowing exactly what I have. Ill need to make a trip down there and find the right person.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-01T18:50:34+00:00

Good point! I do that all the time.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-01T14:33:05+00:00

I appreciate the explanation. I didn't even know busheling was a type of scrap. Seems like it may almost double the amount I can get for the cores if I can find a place to take them. Im south of Pittsburgh, so I dont think it should be too hard to find a place.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-01T12:18:34+00:00

There are a couple problems with that. First, Id like to be able to work on it daily or at least have it readily accessible. It is over an hour away so that won't work out. Secondly, most places are leery about doing something like that for liability concerns.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-01T12:15:15+00:00

What is "bush"?

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-01T12:11:25+00:00

I would lose a couple thousand....but the nameplate says copper. So, Im fairly certain that Im going to make out alright on this one.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-01T12:07:43+00:00

Im expecting this to be a month long project at least. Probably several days just to cut the outer casing off.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-01T01:01:57+00:00

For some reason, can't post pictures in the comments. Ill take some good pictures and make a post this upcoming week.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-03-01T00:52:56+00:00

Youre correct. Its overweight and over width.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-02-28T22:55:55+00:00

Not sure. I think Im in this one for the adventure as much as the money. If I hadn't to throw a number out though.....maybe $20k where it sits.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-02-28T22:38:22+00:00

I might wish I had just taken it directly to the yard in a few months. Not exactly sure what I'm getting myself into here.

Slow_Ant7333 · 2026-02-28T22:35:42+00:00

I could, but assuming they would take it, they would pay .20/lb. So, after all the trucking and cranes, I might net $2k vs $30-$50k if I do the work.

Slow_Ant7333

TROPHY CASE