Roof AC Compressor won't engage

[ambr607]

RV Products units on a 2006 Tiffen Phaeton. THe rear unit quit cooling and I noticed the fan would slow down for a few seconds then come back up. It was the compressor trying to kick in and failing. Replaced the hard start switch and the capacitors but the compressor still won't spool up. Tries for a few seconds and kicks out. It will keep trying every few minutes but just gets hot.

The connector on the wire coming out of the old hard start switch was a little scorched but nothing had melted like I've seen in other posts but I figured for the cheap parts cost it was worth a shot. I think the problem is internal to the compressor. Anyone have any ideas?

[genxrainman]

Yes it sounds like the compressor is done, trying the hard start parts is first line of defense. You did that and it is still tripping the internal overload, that's why it waits 1-2 mins and tries again. Sorry to pass along bad news.

[JFXG]

X2 on genxrainman. Sorry. I'm dealing with the same thing as we speak. My rear unit exhibited exactly the same symptoms two years ago-- required replacement. Now my front unit is essentially dead. Compressor draws about 6-7A on startup, then quickly the draw steps up to over 9A, overheating the protective sensor and causing the thermal cutoff to kick in. Sometimes runs for a minute, sometimes 7 seconds. Dead meat. Dometic's technical position is that they specifically do not recommend replacing the compressor on older units. If the compressor dies, the appliance is dead. Once again, glad I bought that service contract!

[ambr607]

That's what I figured. At least summer is over...

[paz]

Before you replace the compressor, check the condenser coils up on the roof. Ours were clogged with pollen and debris. You will have to take the cover off and may have to remove the metal cover over the coils to get a good look at them. If clogged, clean with a gentle stream from a garden hose being careful not to get any of the electrical components wet.