Given this old pin diagram and numbers on this old encoder, what would be a suitable modern encoder to use?

Question

My place of work has recently acquired a Hydraulic Press Break from the 80's. It has a CNC controlled back stop which is driven by a DC motor and Screw drive. The encoder which couples to the motor provides feedback for the control loop.
I have determined the Encoder is faulty as when i rotate it clockwise by one turn it increments by 5mm but when I rotate it anti-clockwise by 1 turn it increments by 10mm (approximately). It also feels quite clunky when i rotate it.
I would like to replace the encoder however I am not sure how to go about choosing an encoder.
What do pins B and C on the pin diagram represent?
What do the numbers on the encoder represent?
Would this encoder have a zero pulse?
Encoder reads 32/500N05.47

50k4 · Answer

First, you need to find out how the encoder is used in your system. There are two sketches of plugs, I assume your encoder is connected as shown in the upper sketch.
Since the company who produced this is still producing and selling encoders, website here, I would start by giving them a call.

First of all ask, if they can provide a drop in replacement. It is a long shot, but not that uncommon in the automation/CNC world.
You can ask the manufacturer for a technical specification for the encoder. How many counts/revolution does the encoder output is the main important characteristic to choose a replacement. Voltage of the output signals is probably 5 V but it does not hurt to ask to make sure. It is unclear what "H-I = Motor" means.
The technical spec can help you shop around from other vendors. You can all sales people of different companies and ask them if they have something compatible to your spec sheet.

Given this old pin diagram and numbers on this old encoder, what would be a suitable modern encoder to use?

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