Pump turns off when hot ..

[Phillbo]

My Moms pool is experiencing a problem with the pump shutting down when it gets hot.. Is this a pump motor issue or some kind of solenoid issue ?

[Poconos]

Could be any of a few things. There is a thermal switch usually located under the back motor cover. They sometimes do go bad and trip at a lower temperature than they should. More likely the air flow may be blocked. There was a thread recently from someone who couldn't feel air blowing. Usually there is a fan at the pump end of the motor that sucks air in the front vents and blows out the rear vents. Air is moved through passages to keep the motor windings from overheating. Details can vary with motor maker but there needs to be air flow in and out somewhere. Critters can build their homes in those passages and block air flow.

So, Check air flow first. Feel the case and if it's way too hot to keep your hand on it, something is wrong. My superpump runs a case temp around 140F in the shade. Located in a poolhouse. If it was something more serious like a shorted winding then there would most likely be smoke and smell.

See how you make out with these suggestions and we'll go from there. Would also help to know how long it runs from a cold start before quitting.

Al