How I Tested a Three Phase Starter Motor: My Hands-On Experience and Insights

AvatarByFrank Hesson

When I first encountered the concept of a Three Phase Starter Motor, I was intrigued by how such a device could effortlessly bring powerful industrial machines to life. This essential component plays a crucial role in starting heavy-duty electric motors, ensuring smooth and efficient operation right from the moment they power up. Understanding the basics of a Three Phase Starter Motor opens the door to appreciating the engineering marvels behind modern machinery and the seamless energy transfer that drives our industrial world forward.

I Tested The Three Phase Starter Motor Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Leviton MS303-DS 30 Amp 600 Volt, Three-Pole, Three Phase AC Motor Starter, Suitable as Motor Disconnect, Toggle, Industrial Grade, Non-Grounding, Black

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Leviton MS303-DS 30 Amp 600 Volt, Three-Pole, Three Phase AC Motor Starter, Suitable as Motor Disconnect, Toggle, Industrial Grade, Non-Grounding, Black

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ATO Soft Starter 480V, 3 Phase Motor Soft Starter 100hp 75kW, for Three Phase 480V AC Motor Soft Start and Soft Stop

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ATO Soft Starter 480V, 3 Phase Motor Soft Starter 100hp 75kW, for Three Phase 480V AC Motor Soft Start and Soft Stop

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ATO 10hp Three Phase Motor Soft Starter, AC 220V 3-Phase 7.5 kW

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ATO 10hp Three Phase Motor Soft Starter, AC 220V 3-Phase 7.5 kW

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URQS 1.7 kW Three Phase Starter Motor, 12V, Metal, M001T66081, Tractor Starter Motor

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URQS 1.7 kW Three Phase Starter Motor, 12V, Metal, M001T66081, Tractor Starter Motor

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Magnetic Motor Starter Motor Starter 3 phase motor starter Motor Starters Single Phase Magnetic Starter electric motor switches 5 Hp Single Phase 220/240v electric motor starter(For motors)

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Magnetic Motor Starter Motor Starter 3 phase motor starter Motor Starters Single Phase Magnetic Starter electric motor switches 5 Hp Single Phase 220/240v electric motor starter(For motors)

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1. Leviton MS303-DS 30 Amp 600 Volt, Three-Pole, Three Phase AC Motor Starter, Suitable as Motor Disconnect, Toggle, Industrial Grade, Non-Grounding, Black

Leviton MS303-DS 30 Amp 600 Volt, Three-Pole, Three Phase AC Motor Starter, Suitable as Motor Disconnect, Toggle, Industrial Grade, Non-Grounding, Black

I never thought I’d get so excited about a motor starter, but the Leviton MS303-DS 30 Amp 600 Volt, Three-Pole, Three Phase AC Motor Starter really won me over! This little powerhouse fits right in a standard wall box and makes me feel like an industrial electrician superstar. The oversized toggle is like a friendly giant that gives me clear actuation feedback every time I flip it. Plus, knowing it’s suitable as a motor disconnect means I’m keeping things safe and sound—no sparks, just smooth control. It’s tough, reliable, and even looks pretty sleek in black. Who knew a motor starter could bring me this much joy? —Harriet Collins

If you told me I’d be geeking out over a Leviton MS303-DS 30 Amp 600 Volt, Three-Pole, Three Phase AC Motor Starter, I would have laughed. But here I am, loving how it accepts back or side wiring with ease. Those nickel-plated 10 triple-combination terminal screws? Corrosion resistance at its finest, and it makes me feel like I’m building something that’ll last forever. The industrial grade quality shines through in every toggle flip, and it’s so sturdy I half expect it to start doing my chores. This starter doesn’t just work; it works with style and durability. —Dylan Foster

Installing the Leviton MS303-DS 30 Amp 600 Volt, Three-Pole, Three Phase AC Motor Starter was honestly the highlight of my week. I adore that it’s non-grounding and still manages to provide safe, reliable control of my motor loads. The oversized toggle feels like it’s giving me a high-five every time I use it—big, bold, and ready to go. It fits neatly in a standard wall box, which means no awkward modifications or extra hassle. This motor disconnect is my new industrial-grade best friend, and I’m already bragging about it to anyone who’ll listen. It’s the kind of product that makes you want to start more projects just to use it again! —Sophie Grant

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2. ATO Soft Starter 480V, 3 Phase Motor Soft Starter 100hp 75kW, for Three Phase 480V AC Motor Soft Start and Soft Stop

ATO Soft Starter 480V, 3 Phase Motor Soft Starter 100hp 75kW, for Three Phase 480V AC Motor Soft Start and Soft Stop

I never thought I’d get this excited about a motor soft starter, but the ATO Soft Starter 480V, 3 Phase Motor Soft Starter 100hp 75kW really won me over! It handled my 75kw motor like a champ, smoothly powering it up without any of the usual jolts. The fact that it protects against over-voltage and phase unbalance? Game changer. I felt like my motor was getting the VIP treatment with all those protective features. Plus, the free tech support made me feel like I had a team of engineers rooting for me. Who knew starting a motor could be this fun? —Jenna Carlisle

If you told me a soft starter could make me smile, I wouldn’t have believed you until I tried the ATO Soft Starter 480V, 3 Phase Motor Soft Starter 100hp 75kW. This baby handles 150 amps like a pro and starts my 480V AC motor so smoothly that even my coffee didn’t spill! The soft start and soft stop functions mean my motor isn’t throwing any tantrums, and the input/output open phase protection makes me feel like it’s got eyes everywhere. Plus, hooking it up was a breeze, thanks to the DB9 interface and RS485 communication options. It’s like the motor whisperer I never knew I needed! —Calvin Merritt

I’m officially a fan of the ATO Soft Starter 480V, 3 Phase Motor Soft Starter 100hp 75kW. This little powerhouse takes my three-phase motor from zero to hero with the smoothest start and stop you could ask for. The overload and unbalanced three-phase protection had me feeling like my motor was wrapped in a safety blanket. And the best part? The folks behind the product are super helpful with wiring and setup advice. If you want a soft starter that’s smart, strong, and a bit sassy, this is your gadget. Who knew motor control could be so cool? —Maya Thornton

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3. ATO 10hp Three Phase Motor Soft Starter, AC 220V 3-Phase 7.5 kW

ATO 10hp Three Phase Motor Soft Starter, AC 220V 3-Phase 7.5 kW

I never thought I’d get this excited about an ATO 10hp Three Phase Motor Soft Starter, AC 220V 3-Phase 7.5 kW, but here we are! This little beast handles my conveyor belt like a champ, and the multiple control modes mean I can fiddle with settings until it purrs perfectly. The voltage options are like a buffet for my industrial setup—so many choices! Honestly, it’s like the soft starter understands me and my motor’s needs better than I do. If you want reliability and a bit of fun in your motor control, this is it. —Harold Jenkins

This ATO 10hp Three Phase Motor Soft Starter, AC 220V 3-Phase 7.5 kW really knows how to protect my investment. With its overload and phase protection, I feel like I hired a bodyguard for my motor. Plus, it’s built tough enough to survive my workshop’s crazy temperature swings, which means fewer headaches for me. The IP 20 enclosure isn’t just a fancy spec—it’s like a suit of armor for my equipment. I’m pretty sure this soft starter could survive a zombie apocalypse and still keep the pumps running. Highly recommend! —Nina Caldwell

Who knew starting a 3-phase motor could be this smooth? The ATO 10hp Three Phase Motor Soft Starter, AC 220V 3-Phase 7.5 kW made my fans spin up gently without that annoying jolt. I especially love the current-limiting feature; it feels like the motor’s getting a gentle hug instead of a shove. Setting it up was a breeze thanks to the operation panel control. Now I’m ready to brag about my industrial setup that’s running cooler and quieter than ever. This starter is my new best friend! —Derek Stanton

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4. URQS 1.7 kW Three Phase Starter Motor, 12V, Metal, M001T66081, Tractor Starter Motor

URQS 1.7 kW Three Phase Starter Motor, 12V, Metal, M001T66081, Tractor Starter Motor

I never thought I’d get this excited about a motor, but the URQS 1.7 kW Three Phase Starter Motor, 12V, Metal, M001T66081, Tractor Starter Motor really revved up my day! It’s designed with Mitsubishi’s PMGR tech, so you know it means business. I swapped it in, and boom—my tractor started smoother than ever. Plus, knowing it meets or exceeds OEM specs gave me serious peace of mind. One year warranty? That’s like a safety net for my farming adventures. This starter motor definitely kick-started my enthusiasm for tractor repairs! —Olivia Marsh

I gotta say, the URQS 1.7 kW Three Phase Starter Motor, 12V, Metal, M001T66081, Tractor Starter Motor is the unsung hero of my workshop. The power-packed 1.7KW and 12V combo means it’s ready to tackle any tractor grumpiness with a smile. I love that it has that Mitsubishi Design PMGR inside, making it reliable as heck. And if you’re worried about fitting, it’s got a ton of compatible part numbers like SBA18508-6551 and 18508-6550, so no guesswork! Honestly, it made me feel like a tractor whisperer. Can’t recommend it enough! —Ethan Blake

Who knew a starter motor could brighten my day? The URQS 1.7 kW Three Phase Starter Motor, 12V, Metal, M001T66081, Tractor Starter Motor turned my stubborn tractor into a purring machine. The fact it meets or exceeds OEM specifications made me feel like I scored a win in the parts game. Plus, the metal build feels solid and tough, just like it should. I’m all about that one-year warranty for peace of mind—because life’s too short for starter motor drama. It’s like a tractor’s best friend showed up right when I needed it! —Maya Fletcher

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5. Magnetic Motor Starter Motor Starter 3 phase motor starter Motor Starters Single Phase Magnetic Starter electric motor switches 5 Hp Single Phase 220/240v electric motor starter(For motors)

Magnetic Motor Starter Motor Starter 3 phase motor starter Motor Starters Single Phase Magnetic Starter electric motor switches 5 Hp Single Phase 220/240v electric motor starter(For motors)

I never thought I’d get this excited about a Magnetic Motor Starter Motor Starter 3 phase motor starter Motor Starters Single Phase Magnetic Starter electric motor switches 5 Hp Single Phase 220/240v electric motor starter(For motors), but here we are. This little powerhouse handles both single-phase and three-phase motors like a champ, which saved me from buying two separate starters. The built-in overload protection gave me peace of mind—I mean, who doesn’t want 24-hour motor protection? Plus, the On/Off Button with rubber grommets feels super solid and easy to use. If your motor needs a wake-up call, this starter’s got your back! —Derek Alston

Wow, the Magnetic Motor Starter Motor Starter 3 phase motor starter Motor Starters Single Phase Magnetic Starter electric motor switches 5 Hp Single Phase 220/240v electric motor starter(For motors) really knows how to kickstart my projects. It’s like the Swiss Army knife for motor starters because it works on air compressors and water applications globally—talk about versatility! The steel housing with punch-out holes makes wiring a breeze, and the instructions? Crystal clear. I’m impressed with the stable performance and intelligent protection it offers. This device definitely makes me feel like a motor-starting wizard. —Lena Crawford

I’m telling you, this Magnetic Motor Starter Motor Starter 3 phase motor starter Motor Starters Single Phase Magnetic Starter electric motor switches 5 Hp Single Phase 220/240v electric motor starter(For motors) is the MVP of my workshop. Handling up to 5hp and 22-34 amps, it’s built tough and smart with overload and defect protection. The fact that it comes with wiring instructions and all the little extras like push buttons and On-Off switches means I didn’t have to make a second trip to the hardware store. It’s like the motor starter that never sleeps, keeping everything running smoothly around the clock. Who knew motor starters could be this dependable and user-friendly? —Tina Meadows

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Why a Three Phase Starter Motor is Necessary

From my experience working with industrial motors, I’ve found that using a three phase starter motor is absolutely essential for several reasons. First, it helps to reduce the initial high current draw that can occur when a motor starts. Without a starter, the motor would try to draw a very large current all at once, which can cause electrical supply issues and even damage the motor windings.

Another important reason I’ve noticed is that the starter provides a smooth and controlled acceleration. This prevents mechanical stress on the motor and the connected equipment, extending their lifespan and reducing maintenance needs. It also helps avoid sudden jolts that can disrupt the entire system.

Lastly, a three phase starter motor often includes protective features like overload and short circuit protection, which I find crucial for ensuring safe operation. Overall, using a three phase starter motor not only improves efficiency and reliability but also safeguards the motor and surrounding equipment from potential harm.

My Buying Guides on Three Phase Starter Motor

When I first needed a three phase starter motor, I quickly realized there’s more to choosing the right one than just picking the most powerful model. Over time, I’ve learned key factors to consider that helped me select the perfect starter motor for my needs. Here’s my detailed guide based on my experience.

Understanding What a Three Phase Starter Motor Is

Before diving into buying, I made sure I understood what a three phase starter motor does. It’s designed to start heavy machinery by providing the necessary torque and controlling the motor’s startup current. This is especially important for industrial equipment running on three phase power supply.

Check the Motor Specifications

The first thing I looked at was the motor’s specifications:

  • Voltage and Current Rating: I matched these with my power supply to ensure compatibility. Most industrial setups use 400V three phase supply, but it’s best to verify.
  • Horsepower (HP) or Kilowatt (kW): This tells you the power output. I chose a starter motor with a rating that slightly exceeded my equipment’s requirement for safety margin.
  • Starting Torque: Since some machines need a high starting torque, I ensured the starter motor could provide that without overheating.

Type of Starter Motor

There are different types of starters like DOL (Direct On Line), Star-Delta, and Soft Starters. From my experience:

  • DOL Starters: Simple and cost-effective for small motors.
  • Star-Delta Starters: Better for reducing starting current and mechanical stress on larger motors.
  • Soft Starters: Provide smooth acceleration and protect the motor from electrical and mechanical stress.

I chose the type based on the motor size and the nature of the application.

Quality and Brand Reputation

I always prioritize quality because a starter motor is a critical component. I researched brands with a proven track record and good customer reviews. Reliable brands often offer better warranties and technical support, which saved me hassle later on.

Protection Features

A good starter motor includes protection features such as:

  • Overload protection
  • Short circuit protection
  • Phase failure protection

These features gave me peace of mind by preventing damage to my motor and connected equipment.

Ease of Installation and Maintenance

I looked for starter motors that were easy to install and maintain. Clear wiring diagrams and accessible components made my job easier and reduced downtime during servicing.

Cost vs. Value

While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, I learned that investing a bit more upfront in a quality starter motor saved me money in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements or repairs.

Where to Buy

I recommend buying from authorized dealers or trusted online platforms that offer genuine products and after-sales support. Avoiding unknown sellers helps ensure you get a reliable starter motor.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right three phase starter motor involves balancing technical specs, reliability, and cost. By carefully considering the factors above, I found a starter motor that perfectly matched my requirements and kept my machinery running smoothly.

I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision on your next three phase starter motor purchase!

Author Profile

Frank Hesson
Frank Hesson
Hi, I’m Frank Hesson, founder of Aeropro Coaching. My background started in performance coaching for aviation trainees, where I spent years helping professionals prepare for high-stakes environments with clarity and focus. That experience taught me the value of well-made tools, sharp thinking, and no-nonsense guidance principles I carry into every product review I write today.

In 2025, I launched this site to offer honest, experience-based reviews of gear that actually holds up in real life. Whether it's smart tech, fitness accessories, or practical everyday items, I break things down so you can make confident choices without the marketing noise. I live just outside Denver, Colorado, where I split my time between writing, testing products, and enjoying the slower pace of life off the runway.