2-speed spa motor stuttering when starting high speed

klbcolt

Member
Jun 15, 2021
11
Silver City, NM 88061
Surface
Fiberglass
Chlorine
Salt Water Generator
When my spa motor tries to go into high-speed, the back end of the motor stutters for awhile and then usually starts. This happened infrequently in the past but now it happens every time. I've attached a video with sound. Any idea which part of the system might be causing the issues? Thanks!



IMG_20210614_185355059.jpg
 
Sounds like either the starter capacitor is going bad or the pump shaft/seal has something binding on it causing a slow start.
I'll take out the two capacitors (I assume one is the start and the other is the run capacitor) and test them. I may just replace them as they are not expensive. Taking apart the motor/pump is more complicated but I'll try that next if necessary. Thanks!
 
I'll take out the two capacitors (I assume one is the start and the other is the run capacitor) and test them. I may just replace them as they are not expensive. Taking apart the motor/pump is more complicated but I'll try that next if necessary. Thanks!
It turned out to be an easy fix. I replaced both the run (25uf) and the start (50uf) capacitors and the problem went away. If the issue happens again I'll take a look at the centrifugal switch. Thanks for all the help!
 
My easy fix of replacing the capacitors didn't work for long. I've opened up the motor to get a look at the centrifuge switch and it's unclear what to do next. Are there any tests I can do? Maybe just lubricate the switch?
 

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Now check the actual switch (4th picture) and make sure the contacts are not burnt or corroded.
Looks like the high speed contact is burned. It is definitely different from the other contacts. Is there some way to clean the contact or do I need to buy a new switch?
 

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I'd replace the switch if it were me. Emery cloth may work for a while, but it likely won't last.
I cleaned the contact with the emery cloth and then reassembled the motor. Unfortunately the problem didn't go away. I'll start looking for a replacement switch.

Thanks to everyone that helped me work through this problem. I've learned a lot!
 
Unfortunately I couldn't find a replacement switch. I did a lot of searching and one spa guy even said that these cheap XL type pumps don't have replacement parts. I finally gave up and ordered a new pump/wet-end for $200 and it works great. LOL

Thanks again for all the help.
 

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