HVAC starter capacitor leads

[Kestas]

My a/c has developed an intermittent problem where the unit faults when it first turns on, but eventually comes on, on the second or third attempt.. I wanted to replace the starter capacitor, but I couldn't disconnect the leads from the capacitor posts. I certainly didn't want to put too much force and break something when we still have a/c. How would you go about disconnecting the wire leads from the capacitor posts? I've been in the house for 28 years. The unit is around 34 years old. I believe the starter capacitor is original.

 

[laserred96gt]

I would cut the wires and crimp new spade connector, they have them at harbor freight and other hardware stores.

 

[hemitom]

I also would cut and put new clips the wires. looks like the capacitor may be leaking as well.

 

[mk378]

That's not the capacitor, that's the compressor. That connection looks OK, there's no evidence of overheating. I would not touch it. Regular spades may not fit on the terminals or clear under the plastic cover. And you do want that cover on.

 

[bullwinkle]

Might be time for a hard start kit, like this- https://www.zoro.com/supco-hard-sta...hQvEtYFq2IkuBG4QarFoFY86nxhoCHyYQAvD_BwE It may also be new compressor or condensing unit time, 34 years is almost unbelievable!

 

[zzyzzx]

That area needs to be cleaned up. It might work just fine after that.

 

[KJSmith]

As already mentioned, that is not the capacitor. Those are the compressor terminals. Leave them as is. Follow the yellow wire back to the capacitor.

 

[working_title]

Is there a contactor in there? You may want to replace that as well (and it may possibly be the problem). I have two units at my house from the mid 80's that still run and work fine. A few years ago I replaced a few capacitors and the contactors as preventative maintenance, and keep a spare of each on hand.

 

[Cujet]

You could use a bit of corrosion inhibiting compound on those wires. Just to ensure corrosion does not cause high resistance.

 

[Kestas]

Thanks all for the information. I'll set this project aside until after the a/c season. There's a panel over a box on the side of the condenser coil assembly. That's probably where the capacitor is located.

 

[Eddie]

My 1986 AC needed a new contractor switch that was difficult to start. Ed