Thanks Richappy.
I pulled off the compressor start devices today, and I'm betting it shouldnt rattle, and have tiny pieces come out when I shake it.
The device deos read open across the two terminals, and none of the compressor pins (3) show any short to ground readings.
I've ordered a new start device, but the part number and appearence is significantly different from the original, which always makes me worry.
The part number stamped on the device is 220413. But the part comes up as AP3873993, and the photo looks nothing like the part in my hand. (which is white, and other then the relay, is pretty much self contained.) The description is correct however.
Thanks for the help...I'll post the results when the part arrives in 3-5 days.