I used an angle grinder on one before to make two cuts in the metal sheets and then hammered the hell out of it to break it apart but Im wondering if there is a faster /or easier way or a way to break it open without power tools? so far just hammering on it has not worked.
The solution to this problem depends on what you want to do with the Copper winding wire. IF you want to use it for electronic project work then the best way is to carefully unwind it taking care not to scratch the clear insulating coating off the wire. On the other hand, IF you are just interested in salvaging the Copper for selling as scrap metal, I have used a pair of angle cutting pliers to cut the wire on both sides of the core, and then pry the wire out with a screwdriver or chisel. I have also used just a chisel and hammer to cut and drive the wire out of the steel core, and I have used a hacksaw [with a blade with very closely spaced teeth] to cut the winding wire.
The best, but longest way is to cut the outside covering and manually unwind all of the armature wire manually. It will keep it in a single strand, but it takes FOREVER. If you need wire though, its a LOT easier to just buy it from RadioShack or online. just search Armature Wire. its the exact same thing. its even available in several gauges.
