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Capacitors
The capacitor is a cylindrical object, usually mounted on the side of the motor, with a metal cover over the top.
Most motors only have one capacitor which is a start capacitor. The job of the start capacitor is to give an electric motor an extra push to get it turning when switching on. When the capacitor fails the motor will not start correctly.
Some motors also have a second capacitor, known as a run capacitor, which is used to keep the motor running.
If you suspect the capacitor has failed; Ensure the motor is not connected to an electrical supply, remove the cover and visually inspect the capacitor. A failed capacitor often has discolouration on the end.
To confirm if the capacitor has failed; Remove the drive belt from the motor or if direct drive, remove the tooling from the machine. Using Extreme Care - Spin the motor by hand and before it comes to a stop press the start button. If the only problem is the failed capacitor, the motor will run normally. (ie Your spin start has done the job of the capacitor)
When fitting a replacement capacitor, it does not matter which way round the two wires are connected.
