On Tue, 7 Sep 2004 12:32:59 -0700, "SQLit"
wrote:


"davexnet02" wrote in message
.. .
(transferred from alt.hvac)

Hello all,
looking for some advice. I've got a Rheem compressor
in my backyard, model # RAFD-042JBS. According to the
label, manufactured in 1988.
It failed to work today, the big fan comes on, but the compressor
makes a grinding sound for a few seconds, stops, and repeats the
grinding noise at about 2 minute intervals.

I lifted off the fan, and the compressor was very hot,
however, no sign of any cooling taking place.

I'm trying to figure out, based on this this units age and
symptoms, whether it can be reliably repaired, or perhaps a whole
new unit is advisable.

Thanks,
Dave

Depending on how long your planning to stay there you have a couple of
options.
If you going to be in the home more than 5 years then look into an new unit.
If not fix it.
Well surely it depends on the price of the repair.
I pulled out the dual capacitor and found evidence of overheating
at the connector marked HERM (what ever that is)
This is the part, according to the website it's approx $155.
http://www.expertappliance.com/rheem-dual-capacitor.gif

This is supposed to be the original equipment, however the one
I have looks slightly different and it's made by JARD.

I could buy this, but how do I know this is the faulty part?
Perhaps the compressor is bad.

Dave