Pump motor life?

[pbroussard]

Well, I seem to have solved the startup problem. Several days of cleaning/lubing the starting mechanism has freed it up, so the motor starts right up now. I guess I need a bearing in it for the grinding noise now.

Is it common practice to lube the starting mechanism on a regular basis? Thanks,

Paul

[mad hatter]

The startup problem could also be a bad capacitor. Those are usually the symptoms. The part costs around $10.

[Poconos]

Usually when a capacitor fails, if fails permanently. More likely the starter centrifugal switch contacts. It's better to use a thin, flat file to dress the contacts but you can also use some 400 grit wet-or-dry paper available at auto stores. If the pump/motor is showing signs of weathering then a cover is advisable. There generally isn't any routine lubing needed for the motor or any of its parts.
Al

[pbroussard]

It's better to use a thin, flat file to dress the contacts but you can also use some 400 grit wet-or-dry paper available at auto stores.
Al

That did the trick, Al. Easier than I thought, so I had delayed getting out in the heat to work on it. Today we had showers, cooled things down, tried your suggestion, worked well. Thanks for the sound advice!

Paul

[Poconos]

Thanks for the comment. Glad to hear things work out well once in a while.
Al