Groschopp WK, NR, KM, LGK, IGK, IGL, and BGK Part Numbers: What do they mean?

November 16, 2015

Part numbers:  WK  |  NR  |  KM  |  LGK  |  IGK  |  IGL | BGK

We want to start by clarifying motors with Groschopp WK, NR, and the other part numbers listed above are not our product.

If you saw “Groschopp” on the label and came to us hoping for a replacement, don’t worry, it happens more than you think. Motors with these part numbers are built by Groschopp & Co., GmbH, a German motor manufacturer completely separate from us. The above list may not be comprehensive, but they are part numbers we are aware of.


Why the same name?

In order to answer this question, we need to go back to how we got our start. The foundation of Groschopp, Inc. (our company) began in 1930 as a company called Wincharger. Based in Sioux City, Iowa, Wincharger was a pioneer in the development of wind powered generators, primarily marketed in rural areas of the U.S. where modern electrical service had yet to reach. By the late 1930’s, the young company attracted the attention of Zenith Radio Corporation, who sought to bring radios powered by Wincharger’s generators to rural regions.

During World War II, the Wincharger Company became the world’s largest manufacturer of dynamotors and inverters, leveraging its success into motors and farm generators in the 1950’s post-war economy. In 1968, Dyna-Technology purchased the Wincharger division from Zenith, eventually relocating the company’s small motor operations to Sioux Center, Iowa.

In 1980, Groschopp & Co., GmbH purchased the small motor division of Dyna-Technology, but the company was acquired by a private trust in 1996 and separated from Groschopp’s European operations. However, after making our way as a successful motor and gearmotor manufacturer here in Sioux Center, Iowa, we chose to keep the Groschopp name and still operate under it today.

How do I replace my motor?

For motors with these part numbers, you will need to go back to the OEM and order directly from them.

How to use the Motor Search Tool

Narrow your search by selecting motor type, gearbox, voltage, and phase options for your desired motor.

Select a dominant variable: choose one of the three parameters to narrow your search. The selected variable determines which slider bar you will be able to manually move.

Use the slider corresponding to your dominant variable to further narrow your motor selection. The other sliders will automatically move to show available ranges based on the range of your selected variable.

Results will upload as your search criteria changes. If you have any questions regarding your results or how to use the search tool, you can chat with us using the green tab on the left-hand side of your screen.


Note: Groschopp Universal motors are custom built to fit your application so no additional options are available to narrow the search. Selecting the Universal motor type will prompt a message taking you to the Universal product page.

Not sure what you need?

One of our team members would be happy to help. Contact us at 800-829-4135 or by email at sales@groschopp.com. You can also chat with us using the green tab on the left side of your screen.

send us an email

Universal Motors

Groschopp Universal motors are custom built to fit your application so no additional options are available to narrow the search. Standard frame sizes and motor features can be found on the Universal page.

go to Universal page