Replace complete pump or just motor?

[Poconos]

Andy,
A few facts about pump motors. Your problem about sluggish starts and at times not starting and tripping the breaker are indicative of a dirty starting switch. Especially with an 8.5 year old motor and if it's outsde in the elements. There are no 'dead spots' in this type of motor. "Dead spots' could occur in a motor with a commutator and brushes, AC/DC motors, but not in pump motors. If a winding was shorted you would get smoke. Open it would not start or run. There is a starting capacitor in the starting circuit but when they fail it's usually shorted or open and not intermittant. So, if you want to give it a shot, pull the back cover and clean the contacts. There is a pic of the back end of a Hayward Superpump in this thread:

http://www.poolforum.com/pf2/showthread.php?t=4800

Something else I'll add, you don't have to be very agressive on the contacts. You just need to sand or file them lightly. Material is usually silver I believe, and soft.
Hope this helps and saves you some $$$.
Al

[CarlD]

I always defer to Al (Poconos) when it comes to pumps. He knows them far better than I do.

IOW, take his advice before mine on pumps.

[AndyT86]

Thanks, guys. I'll take a look at the motor later today. I just ordered a new liner this week, and was not looking forward to paying for a pump, too.

3/4hp seems to be working okay... I wasn't sure how much additional load the Kreepy and heat pump would place on it. (BTW, I have a sand filter.)

- Andy -

[AndyT86]

That did it! A few minutes with a screwdriver, a contact file, and some contact cleaner, and it's running like new!

Once again this forum has saved me much more than the price of admission!

- Andy -

[waste]

Andy, it's GREAT that the motor is fine!! Also glad to hear that you got the new liner ordered - sounds like you are in for going into this swim season with a ~ newish pool

[Poconos]

I love a happy and cheap ending. Hope you have a wonderful summer.
Al

[CarlD]

As I said: When it comes to pumps and motors I ALWAYS defer to Al!

I LOVE solutions that cost less than $5 and save hundreds!