Compressor Relay Test Clarification

Refrigerator & Freezer Repair
1

Question for JEFF:

You posted this test procedure:

[LEFT][COLOR=#000000]Lets use a multi-meter to test the compressor. First unplug the refrigerator and remove the start relay off of the side of the compressor. Go to the single pin on the compressor and check to one of the pins that are side by side on the compressor. The run winding will read 1-5 ohms resistance. Then stay on the single pin and go to the other pin. The start winding will read 3-11 ohms resistance. If your readings are out of these ranges, then you have a bad compressor. If they are within these ranges, then you have a bad relay overload. Here is a link to the parts diagram. Hope this helps.

I understand start winding measurement, across the two pins but I dont understand how to make the run winding measurement (only one pin?). I have a picture of the connection on my computer and tried to insert it in this box but it did not work.[/COLOR]

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3

We have no Jeff here.
This test only indicates the windings are not blown open and of little value except to determine which pins are start and run. Only valid test is functional one with test box or start device.
The top pin is usually the common one. Put one meter lead on it, the other on lower left, then switch to lower right. The lower resistance one is the run pin, BUT in some compressors, the resistance is nearly equal!. Best to take apart the old start device, if a box, and trace which compressor pin went directly to a male spade terminal, virtually 100% of the time, that is the run terminal.