Actually, this is a good intro discussion.
http://www.tpub.com/content/neets/14...s/14177_96.htm

The motor did not rotate when I put in a 7.5 MFD cap. It worked for
about 10 mins for a 10 MFD capacitor.
It was making a squeaking sound, before it cut out. I am trying to
figure out if it is a simple repair in the starter winding and return
the motor, or if I need to replace the motor.

BTW, I look at this as a learning experience. So, unless I fry myself
or the house, nothing is lost.
I have messed up things in my life, but I think I have fixed many a
things too.

I know the difference between an engine and motor. An engine turns
mechanical energy into electricity. A motor turns electrical energy
into mechanical. You can usually run one in reverse to get the
behavior of the other.