Vintage Windmill and Wind Generator Forum

Hello to all,
I am new to this forum. I also do not have any previous experience with buying/repairing windmills. I do have property where I would like to install a windmill. I am retired and tinker around to keep busy. My interest in a windmill is from my father-in-law. He is no longer around, but he had a windmill on his farm property in Illinois and he formed quite an attachment to that landmark ...... such that when it eventually blew down, his only comment was "my beloved windmill". Anyway, he is the person who fired my interest in this topic.

I would like to put up a windmill on my property in Kansas. I do not wish to put up an entirely functional/operational windmill that would pump water, but I do have an interest in having the ability of the windmill being able to be able to be configured for taking the mechanical energy from the head (proper term?) down to the ground level. I haven't fully thought about exactly what I would like the mechanical energy to accomplish (purpose), but it is my intention to tinker around with some other project down the line if I can install a windmill that will meet this requirement. (Old retired guys need things to keep them busy)

Should I consider buying a used windmill? The co$t of new windmills seems pretty high, especially if I really have no burning need for a fully functioning unit. But buying a used product that you know absolutely nothing about technically is likely not to end well.

flatlander

James , there are professional windmillers in your area that are a wonderfull resource for a rebuilt / remanufactured windmill . they can supply the tower & set-up , install the vision you have for your property .
Most of us dreamed for years about having a windmill up and spinning , It's just time and money & a lot of blood and sweat equity , or , let the professionals help .

To take the mechanical energy from the head to the ground, other than the up down action of pumping wold require a power mill. They are rare. Almost impossible to find or buy. If I wanted a windmill and not have to do to much maintenance on it. I'd stick with an Aermotor. Many are still around and they are great windmills. There may be somebody out there that could fix you up in your price range.

Hi James -
Where is KS are you? I know some people in Western KS around the Goodland area.