After defrosting freezer, the freezer wouldn't start. It would just hum for about 10 seconds then stop for about 20 seconds and repeat.
I checked the start relay and it rattled, indicating it was somehow damaged (freezer is about 25 years old). So I ordered a replacement relay and a capacitor just to be sure. I first installed the relay, plugged the freezer in and it started up just fine. So then I unplugged the freezer, set it back into its place, plugged it back in, powered it on and nothing. So I then replaced the start capacitor since I had a new one on hand and still, it wouldn't start. But this time, no hum whatsoever. Not even a click. I then replaced the start relay and still, nothing.
I verified continuity in the relay (about 6-7 ohms across terminals). I then verified windings in compressor had no opens (all three terminal pins). I then checked the overload protector and there's no continuity (open) between the receptacle connector (at compressor end) and the blade connector (to temp controller). I assume there should be some resistance between connectors of the overload device.
Now I'm in a pickle because the overload is no longer available.

Any ideas or suggestions? Do you think the overload is the problem? Am I nuts to be investing time and money into a 25 year old freezer? Although it's very clean and looks great, it is 25 years old.