Repairing my A/C unit's fan motor

[Adam Preble]

I have an old GE air conditioner outside that is giving a 60Hz hum from the fan motor without turning. I can get it going manually, but it is fighting against me when the motor is actively trying to run.

This is an old unit, but it has been well-behaved otherwise. It came with the house, so the only thing I know is what I got from the inside cover. I have a charging chart that is for BGTA742B21b/B1BG and BTB942A199A. Do these numbers refer to the whole unit? I am trying to narrow down the model information since I think the old sticker has long worn off.

I assume a Sears appliance store would have replacement parts. I used to have a twin washer/dryer with a GE motor that one here stocked.

I also wonder if the motor could be salvaged, but I assume not.

[Michael B]

[Tony Hwang]

Hi, It's not the motor. Most likely starting cap has gone bad. Replacement does not cost much. Just make sure when you work on it, turn the power off to the unit.

[Edwin Pawlowski]

Look at the motor itself. If should say things like 48 frame or 56 frame and

1/3 HP and 1140 rpm or similar.

Sure, Sears may have them along with the Vaseline needed when they quote the price. Try

or or a local motor supply house.

Probably not. It may or may not be the motor though. Start capacitors can also create similar problems so get that tested.