I replaced the drive coupling and hard wired the lid switch that broke during the repair. The drive coupling is aligned correctly and the motor is free of dust or debris. It was a normal repair, so I thought. I triple checked everything. During the trial run I smelled smoke then the wash cycle stopped after 4 minutes. After a 5 minute rest I turned the switch to new wash setting and the agitator began to work again,then I heard a spark, then saw smoke. The capacitor was fried! The motor was hot, but that may be normal run temp. I can’t be sure.
What will cause a capacitor to fail?
Will replacing the capacitor solve my problem?
From what you have described your capacitor failed because of a surge of current, probably a short of some type. I think the problem is in your motor or your wiring, but cannot be more specific
If the wiring problem or motor problem is not fixed then replacing the capacitor will not help, it will only blow again. I would fully inspect the wiring, and you can disconnect the motor and take it to a shop to see if they can test it out. Hopefully one of these actions will find your problem.
Good luck
Thanks for the solid advice. I weighed the cost including time and effort and decided to buy a new unit. I really wanted to fix the old one, but I could be throwing more money to the bad in the short run without proper diagnostics. Besides, I ran out of underwear two days ago. I need to get some laundry done!!! Thanks again, your advice was much appreciated.
BTW, FYI, I picked up a new 3.2 CU. Ft. Roper at Lowes for $285 inc. tax plus free delivery and haul off the old unit.
( I opened an account and received a 10% discount on my first charge).
Sometimes your local store offers better pricing than what’s online!
I think you did the right thing, and that’s a great deal. That also a machine I would have recommended, it will do a great job, has Whirlpool parts and is easy and inexpensive to fix.
Good luck with it.