Drive unit for a strapping device

A drive unit for a strapping device for strapping a package with a plastic tape positioned around the same, comprising a motor-driven tensioning device and a motor-driven welding device for the plastic tape, wherein the tensioning and welding devices can each be driven by a single electric motor having a first end portion and a second, opposite end portion, which, with interposition of freewheels, can alternately be brought into operative connection with the tensioning and welding devices, wherein the electric motor includes:

• a casing extending from the first end portion;
• a cover covering a front end of the casing;
• a shaft end extending through the cover and forwardly from the cover;
• and
• a casing extension extending beyond the second end portion of the electric motor at an axial end thereof, wherein the casing extension is fittable in a form of a separate component on the casing of the electric motor such that the casing extension is formed in one piece with the cover of the electric motor, and wherein one of the freewheels, at least one rolling-contact bearing, and at least one O ring are disposed within the casing extension and about the shaft end, the O ring being disposed radially between the rolling-contact bearing and the casing extension.