The outside condenser fan motor went out two years ago. It was a 1/8 HP and
I replaced it with a 1/10 HP motor that was available at the time. I since
bought an exact copy of the 1/8 HP motor figuring it would be more efficient
in the heat of summer. I planned on installing it in the next few days but
tonight I noticed the compressor making a weird howling/hissing noise like
it was giving up the freon ghost. It really freaked out the cat which is a
twist since it's the cat that does the howling 'round here. After
confirming that I was still getting cool air out of the ducts I went outside
to check it out. The old 1/10 HP fan is running smoothly and the compressor
seems to run okay but every so often it makes a crackling noise. No sign of
freon leakage but an ominous hot electrical smell was observed. I'm
wondering if the run/start cap is in the process of self destruction. There
also seems to be an abundance of condensation moisture on and around the
compressor and return coolant lines. I shut it down and plan to test the
cap in the morning before running it anymore. Any suggestions or advice
would be much appreciated. I am well versed in electrical design but do not
have the equipment to recharge the freon if a compressor replacement is
warranted.

TIA, Tim