Hayward 1.5HP Super Pump hums for 3 seconds then cuts out

[brian113]

I haven't run my Hayward 1.5HP Super Pump for a three days. I had no problems with it this summer.

Today, I flipped the switch to turn it on, and I was greeted with a hum for about three seconds and then the humming stopped. I turned off the switch on my fuse box, waited a few seconds and tried again: same result — a hum of three seconds, then a shutdown. The mechanical pump action never began either time.

I'm working from home today and not able to address this right now. Just figured I'd see if the TFP community could identify a likely culprit before I start calling around for either a replacement or a repair.

The pump is 13 years old. I had a bearing replaced in it eight years ago, but I forget it the same thing happened back then.

Thoughts on the culprit and/or the merits of repairing it vs. replacing a pump of its age?

 

[JamesW]

Make sure that the shaft turns easily.

If the shaft turns easily, try a new capacitor.

 

[brian113]

I'm guessing it's the capacitor. The shaft turned freely. This happened the Friday before Labor Day, and the forecast was perfect for the holiday weekend, so I needed a quick fix.

I found a refurbished 1.5HP super pump for $150 at a local pool store. I snatched it up and swapped out the motor so I didn't have to mess with any of the plumbing. I'll use the old motor as a learning opportunity as I read up on how to test & replace capacitors this winter.