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TCG  
#1 Posted : Sunday, June 7, 2009 6:28:39 AM(UTC)
TCG

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Joined: 6/7/2009(UTC)
Posts: 2

The compressor start relay (PN 12555902) in our 6-yr old Kenmore refrigerator failed. I replaced it with a Supco URCO410 3N'1 relay with start capacitor and overload protection. The URCO410 is appropriate for the Tecumseh TPE1380YXA compressor and was readily available from a local parts store. Supco claims it's good for any hermetic compressor unit and will eliminate start winding overheating.

One day later, the refrigerator is running fine.

Today, I read an online post that 3N'1 relays are NOT recommended for compressors that draw less than 2A. (The Tecumseh draws 1.35A.) Should I be concerned and replace the URCO410 with a 12555902? (If necessary, I could do so within a week.)
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richappy  
#2 Posted : Sunday, June 7, 2009 12:00:05 PM(UTC)
richappy

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Never use a 3n1 hard start relay on a modern refigerator! The high current from the 3n1 will burn out the start winding! It is also hard on the adaptive defrost module. The current exceeds the rating of it.
Make sure you use the factory specified part. This part contains a thermal and current overload device designed specifically for your compressor.
Universal ones, like the URO41, do not adequitely protect the compressor during hard start conditions and totally fail to protect the compressor from thermal overloads.
If your compressor fails to start with the specified part, you probably have a damaged start winding, either burnt or with shorted turns. The use of a 3n1 will get the compressor running, but with the damaged start winding, it will fail in a short period of time.
I would replace it soon, one week may be too long. Also, did you wire in the run capacitor??
TCG  
#3 Posted : Sunday, June 7, 2009 4:12:17 PM(UTC)
TCG

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Thanks richappy for your prompt reply. Yes, I did wire in the run capacitor. Based on your advice, I'm going to order the 12555902 now and replace the 3N'1 ASAP.
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