Pololu 3462/3463/3464/3465/3466/3467/3468/3469/3470/3471/3472/3473 Metal Gearmotor 6V with Extended Motor Shaft
Pololu 3462/3463/3464/3465/3466/3467/3468/3469/3470/3471/3472/3473 Metal Gearmotor 6V with Extended Motor Shaft
Pololu 3462/3463/3464/3465/3466/3467/3468/3469/3470/3471/3472/3473 Metal Gearmotor 6V with Extended Motor Shaft
The Pololu Metal Gearmotor series (models 3462-3473) represents a precision-engineered DC motor with integrated metal gearbox, specifically designed for robotics, automation, and embedded systems requiring high torque output at controlled speeds. Professional roboticists, autonomous vehicle developers, and industrial automation engineers rely on these gearmotors for applications demanding reliable torque delivery with minimal backlash. This product solves the critical engineering challenge of converting high-speed motor rotation into controlled, high-torque mechanical output while maintaining compact form factor and extended motor shaft compatibility for direct coupling to wheels, pulleys, or custom mechanical assemblies.
Product Overview
The Pololu Metal Gearmotor 6V with Extended Motor Shaft combines a brushed DC motor with a precision metal gearbox featuring helical gears that minimize noise and vibration while delivering consistent torque across the operating range. The extended motor shaft design enables direct integration with wheels, encoders, and mechanical couplings without requiring additional adapters, significantly simplifying mechanical design in mobile robotics and wheeled platforms. The metal construction of the gearbox housing provides superior durability compared to plastic alternatives, ensuring reliable operation in demanding environments including educational robotics competitions, autonomous navigation systems, and industrial automation applications.
Available in multiple gear ratio variants (models 3462 through 3473 offer different reduction ratios), these gearmotors allow engineers to select the optimal speed-torque trade-off for specific applications. The 6V nominal operating voltage makes them compatible with standard battery packs, solar power systems, and regulated power supplies commonly used in embedded projects. The extended motor shaft protrudes beyond the standard motor housing, providing a mechanical interface point for direct encoder mounting, wheel attachment, or pulley systems without requiring custom brackets or shaft extensions.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
| Product Type | Metal Gearmotor with Extended Motor Shaft |
| Brand | Pololu Robotics and Electronics |
| Origin | Original/Authentic |
| Warranty | 7 days on manufacturing defects |
| Shipping | 1-5 days from Bengaluru |
| Delivery | 7-8 days across India |
| Support | 24/7 via Email and WhatsApp |
| Nominal Voltage | 6V DC |
| Motor Type | Brushed DC Motor with Metal Gearbox |
| Gearbox Construction | Metal Housing with Helical Gears |
| Gear Ratio Options | Multiple ratios available across model range 3462-3473 |
| Motor Shaft Design | Extended shaft for direct coupling and encoder mounting |
| Output Shaft Diameter | Varies by model, typically 3-4mm |
Key Features
- Extended motor shaft design eliminates need for shaft couplers or adapters, reducing assembly complexity and mechanical play in robotic drive systems
- Metal gearbox construction with helical gears provides superior load capacity and reduced backlash compared to plastic alternatives, critical for precision positioning applications
- Multiple gear ratio variants (models 3462-3473) allow selection of optimal torque-speed characteristics for specific load requirements and mechanical advantage calculations
- Compact form factor with integrated gearbox enables space-efficient integration in mobile robots, wheeled platforms, and confined mechanical assemblies
- 6V nominal voltage compatibility with standard battery packs, solar panels, and regulated DC power supplies commonly used in robotics and embedded systems
- Brushed DC motor design provides simple speed control via PWM voltage regulation, enabling straightforward microcontroller integration without complex driver circuits
Applications and Use Cases
- Mobile robotics and wheeled platforms requiring direct wheel drive with extended shaft for encoder feedback and odometry calculations in autonomous navigation systems
- Educational robotics competitions including FIRST Robotics and VEX Robotics where reliable torque delivery and compact gearmotor integration are essential for competitive performance
- Automated conveyor systems and industrial material handling equipment requiring consistent torque output across varying load conditions with minimal vibration from helical gear design
- Robotic arm actuators and mechanical positioning systems where the extended shaft accommodates direct coupling to pulleys, lead screws, or pinion gears for force multiplication
- Autonomous ground vehicles and rover platforms requiring high torque-to-weight ratio for traction and obstacle navigation across uneven terrain
- Prototype development and proof-of-concept engineering where modular gearmotor selection enables rapid iteration without custom motor specification or mechanical redesign
How to Use
Begin by selecting the appropriate gear ratio model (3462-3473) based on your application's speed and torque requirements. Calculate the required output torque including mechanical advantage from wheels or pulleys, then reference Pololu's detailed specifications to match motor characteristics. Connect the motor leads to your 6V power source through appropriate current-limiting circuitry; for variable speed control, implement PWM switching at 5-20 kHz frequency to avoid audible noise while maintaining smooth torque delivery. The extended motor shaft accommodates direct mounting of wheels, pulleys, or encoder discs; use set screws or adhesive-backed fasteners to secure mechanical components, ensuring proper alignment to minimize vibration and binding.
For microcontroller integration, connect motor leads through an H-bridge driver circuit (such as L298N or similar) to enable bidirectional control and PWM speed modulation from GPIO pins. Implement current limiting resistors and flyback diodes to protect control circuitry from back-EMF spikes during motor deceleration. If using encoders for feedback, mount the encoder disc directly on the extended shaft with appropriate spacing to ensure reliable signal generation. Always verify proper mechanical coupling before applying full voltage; test at reduced voltage initially to confirm correct rotation direction and smooth operation before deploying in production applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the various Pololu gearmotor models 3462-3473?
The model numbers 3462 through 3473 represent different internal gear ratios within the same physical form factor. Each model provides a different speed-to-torque trade-off; lower model numbers typically offer higher speeds with lower torque, while higher model numbers provide reduced speeds with increased output torque. Select your model based on your application's mechanical load and desired output RPM. Pololu provides detailed specification sheets for each model showing exact gear ratios, free-run speeds, and stall torque values.
Can I use PWM speed control with these gearmotors?
Yes, these brushed DC motors respond excellently to PWM speed control. Apply PWM frequencies between 5-20 kHz to achieve smooth speed modulation while avoiding audible noise. Connect the motor through an H-bridge driver circuit controlled by microcontroller PWM outputs. The motor will maintain torque characteristics across the PWM duty cycle range, making these ideal for variable-speed applications in robotics and automation systems.
How do I mount wheels or pulleys on the extended motor shaft?
The extended shaft design accommodates direct mechanical coupling without adapters. For wheel mounting, use a set screw collar or press-fit hub sized to match the shaft diameter (typically 3-4mm). Apply threadlocker compound to set screws to prevent loosening from vibration. For pulley or sprocket mounting, ensure proper shaft concentricity and use keyways or set screws for positive drive engagement. Always test mechanical alignment before operating under load to prevent wobbling and premature bearing wear.
What is the maximum continuous current draw of these motors?
Continuous current varies by model and gear ratio, typically ranging from 0.5A to 2A at nominal 6V under moderate load. Consult the specific datasheet for your selected model number to determine exact current specifications. Always size your power supply and driver circuitry for peak stall current, which can exceed continuous ratings by 3-5x during locked-rotor conditions. Implement appropriate current limiting and thermal management to prevent motor damage.
Are these gearmotors suitable for outdoor or wet environments?
The metal gearbox housing provides good environmental protection compared to plastic alternatives, but these motors are not sealed for submersion or high-pressure water exposure. For outdoor applications, protect the motor from direct water spray and provide adequate drainage around the motor assembly. Consider conformal coating or potting for salt-spray environments. For fully sealed applications, contact Pololu for specialized variants or implement custom waterproofing measures appropriate to your specific environmental conditions.
When will I receive my order?
Orders are dispatched within 1-5 business days from our Bengaluru warehouse. Delivery takes 7-8 days to most locations across India.
What is your return and warranty policy?
We offer a 7-day return policy on manufacturing defects only. Contact support within 7 days of receipt for free replacement or full refund. Not applicable for user damage or misuse.
Are bulk discounts available?
Yes, wholesale pricing for orders of 10 or more units. Contact our sales team via WhatsApp or email for a customized bulk quote.
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