[TheForge] motor and capacitor

[Cindy]

If you have a meter with microfarad function, you can check the mfd the 
capacitor is putting out.  Generally, the cap will state the mfd and its 
tolerance in percentage (+/-), usually 5-10%.  Capacitors are the first 
thing to check when you look at motors not starting, etc., and the 
cheapest to fix if they are out.  Usually less than $10 or so.  An air 
conditioning supply house is a good source for caps and probably will 
have what you need and the price will be fair.  Replace if out of 
tolerance either up or down.

I keep all the old caps I pull off motors if 1 side is within 
tolerance.  even if 1 side is bad, you can use the other side. I write 
on them what the mfd is.  then when I need one, I go dig thru my pile 
and see if something is ok to use.  some will say 330 volt, others 440 
or whatever, ok to go w/ a higher number on volts but not lower.

some have 2 caps in one, you will have to ck between common and the 
start and run side (in HVAC that's fan and hermetic).  i don't see many 
start caps anymore but that is probably what you have on this little motor.

one caution, if a cap is charged, it can shock you if you short it out.  
it (the charge) can be drained by hooking a resistor between terminals.  
just do NOT use a screwdriver to short it as you may ruin the capacitor.

James