Key Takeaways
- A Leeson cross reference number is an internal code that identifies a specific motor configuration, not a public catalog number.
- You can find the motor specifications by calling Leeson's customer service line or emailing their technical support team with the full cross reference number.
- Motor distributors and industrial supply shops often have access to Leeson's cross reference database and can look up the motor for you.
- If you have the original motor's nameplate or documentation, you may be able to match it directly without needing the cross reference number.
- The cross reference number tells you the frame size, horsepower, speed, voltage, and mounting style — all the details you need to order a replacement.
What a Leeson Cross Reference Number Actually Tells You
The code 056b17drr70036a1 breaks down into segments that describe the motor's physical and electrical properties. While Leeson does not publish the exact decoding rules publicly, the segments typically indicate frame size (the physical dimensions), horsepower, RPM (revolutions per minute), voltage rating, and mounting configuration. This is why the same cross reference number will not appear on two different motors — each code is unique to one specific motor model.
The reason you have this number instead of a standard catalog number usually means you are working from an older motor, a motor from a different brand that Leeson makes under contract, or documentation that references Leeson's internal system rather than their published catalog. Industrial equipment manufacturers sometimes use Leeson's cross reference codes in their own parts lists because it is faster than translating to Leeson's public model numbers.
Contacting Leeson Directly for Motor Specifications
Leeson Electric is based in Grafton, Wisconsin, and their customer service team can decode the cross reference number for you. Call their main line or use their website contact form to reach technical support. When you contact them, have the full cross reference number ready, and let them know whether you need the motor for when ready replacement or are just gathering information. They will tell you the horsepower, frame size, RPM, voltage, and mounting type — everything you need to order a replacement from any distributor.
Email is often faster than phone if you are not in a hurry, because it creates a written record and gives their team time to look up the information in their system. Include the cross reference number in the subject line so it does not get lost. Response time is usually one to two business days. If you need the motor urgently, call instead — their phone team can often give you the information while you wait.
Using a Motor Distributor to Look Up the Cross Reference
Any industrial motor distributor or electrical supply shop that carries Leeson motors has access to the cross reference database. This is often faster than contacting Leeson yourself, especially if the distributor is local and you can visit in person or call with the number. Distributors like Anixter, Heilind, or local electrical wholesalers use the same lookup system that Leeson's own sales team uses, so they can decode the number when ready.
The advantage of going through a distributor is that they can also tell you whether the motor is in stock, what it costs, and how quickly they can ship it. If you are replacing a motor in equipment that is down, a distributor can often get you a replacement the same day or next morning. They may also be able to suggest a newer equivalent if the original motor is no longer made, which can happen with older cross reference numbers.
Decoding the Motor Information Once You Have It
Once Leeson or a distributor gives you the specifications, you will have the frame size (like 56 or 143T), horsepower (like 1 HP or 3 HP), RPM (like 1725 or 3450), voltage (like 115V or 230V/460V), and mounting type (like foot-mounted or flange-mounted). Write these down or take a photo of the information — this is what you will use to order the replacement from any motor supplier, not just Leeson.
The frame size and mounting type are critical because they determine whether the new motor will physically fit in the same space. Horsepower and RPM determine whether it will do the same work. Voltage must match your electrical supply. If any of these do not match the original, the replacement will not work in your equipment.
What to Do If You Have the Original Motor's Nameplate
If the motor you are replacing is still accessible, the nameplate on the motor itself will show the horsepower, RPM, voltage, frame size, and often the manufacturer's model number. You may not need the cross reference number at all — you can take a photo of the nameplate and show it to any motor supplier, and they can find you an exact replacement or a modern equivalent. This is often faster than trying to decode a cross reference number from old documentation.
The nameplate is usually a metal or plastic label riveted or glued to the motor housing. It lists the manufacturer (Leeson, in this case), the model number, the voltage and phase, the horsepower, the RPM at full load, the frame size, and sometimes the year of manufacture. If the nameplate is worn or missing, the cross reference number becomes more valuable, because it is the only way to recover that information.
Ordering a Replacement Once You Know the Specifications
Once you have the motor specifications from the cross reference number, you can order from Leeson directly, from any of their authorized distributors, or from general industrial suppliers like Grainger or MSC Industrial Direct. You do not have to use the cross reference number to order — you will order by the frame size, horsepower, RPM, voltage, and mounting type instead. The cross reference number was just the tool to find those specifications.
When you place the order, confirm the lead time (how long it takes to ship) and the cost. Some frame sizes and configurations are stock items that ship the same day; others may take a week or more. If the motor is no longer made, the supplier can usually suggest a direct replacement that fits the same mounting and performs the same work, often at a lower cost than the original.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I search for a Leeson motor using just the cross reference number online?
Not directly — the cross reference number is Leeson's internal code, not a public catalog number. You will need to contact Leeson, a distributor, or check the original equipment documentation to find the actual motor specifications. Once you have those, you can search online by frame size and horsepower instead.
What if the motor is no longer made?
Leeson and distributors can suggest a modern replacement that has the same frame size, horsepower, and mounting. Newer motors are often more efficient and cost less to run, even if they are not an exact model match. The replacement will fit in the same space and do the same job.
Do I need to order from Leeson, or can I use any motor supplier?
Once you have the specifications, you can order from any supplier. Leeson, distributors, and general industrial suppliers all carry motors with the same frame sizes and ratings. Compare prices and lead times — you may find a better deal elsewhere, or you may need the speed that a local distributor offers.
What if I lose the cross reference number?
If you still have the original motor, photograph the nameplate — that gives you all the information you need. If the motor is gone, check the original equipment manual or contact the equipment manufacturer. They often have the motor specifications in their parts lists or service documentation.
How long does it take to get a replacement motor?
Stock motors ship the same day or next business day. Special configurations or older models may take one to two weeks. Ask the supplier for a lead time before you order, especially if the equipment is down and you need it quickly.