Pool pump Shutting off

[ctdohert2]

I have a 1.5hp Sta Rite pump. The other day it stopped running and only hums then trips the motor after a few seconds. The shaft turns freely, and I have checked the impeller for blockage. When I turn the power on and spin the shaft the motor runs fine, so I am assuming it is the capacitor. Mine is mounted on top. ( Start Cap?) This is all fine except the motor runs for about 5-10 minutes and shuts down. My question is could the assumed bad capacitor cause this and if not any suggestions. There is no noise within the motor and it seems to running smoothly bofore it trips. Thanks in advance...Charlie

 

[swimcmp]

Could be the capacitor. How old is the motor, it could be thermal protector in the motor. How hot is the case when it shuts off, can you touch it?

 

[ctdohert2]

The motor is about 3 years old. I will have to run it again to let you know the temperature. Am I wrong but shouldn't it be somewhat hot anyway after running?

 

[swimcmp]

Yes it should have some heat. Does the top of the motor around the capacitor look like it has been hot? At three year it is very possible the windings are finally starting to age and it is internal heat and not the capacitor.