83 Tri Cabin A/C compressor won't start

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nitro115
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Location: Lake Norman, NC
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83 Tri Cabin A/C compressor won't start

Post by nitro115 »

Hi all, been a long time reader. I've had this Tri Cabin for 3 years only, and have moderate experience.

The problem: the forward A/C's compressor doesn't want to start. When I turn the control knob to Run, the lights get dim in the cabin, then after about 5-6 seconds they all come back to normal. When trying to start the A/C, the breaker doesn't trip at all. I've tried to hook up a hard start, but everything remains the same. I've swapped the relay, and the start and run capacitors between the two units I have, still no go. The air handler's fan runs okay, and I can hear the reversing valve working too when I switch between Heat and Cool. I'm afraid the compressor is shot, but I'd like to hear some opinions, since I'm not an expert at marine A/Cs.

Also, IF the whole unit needs to be replaced, where can I find one? It's a Crusiair Type J unit, 12k BTU, 115V model.

Thanks for any help in advance!
1983 Trojan Tri Cabin
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k9th
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Location: Michigan City, IN

Post by k9th »

Sounds like a compressor problem for sure. Since they are still in business, perhaps Cruisair has replacement units.

http://www.dometic.com/enus/Americas/US ... /Cruisair/
Tim

"SeaDog"
1979 36' Tri-Cabin
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Big D
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Location: Ontario, Canada

Post by Big D »

Sounds like a seized compressor but check the ends of your shore power cords and the inlets on the boat. Look for melted or burnt plastic around each contact.
She was a 1969 36 ft wooden beauty with big blue 440s that we'll miss forever.
And thanks to the gang, 2012 Trojan Boater Of The Year
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nitro115
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Posts: 41
Joined: Tue Oct 23, 2007 7:45 pm
Location: Lake Norman, NC
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Post by nitro115 »

Thank you guys! I've checked the coils of the compressor for short and/or ground fault, everything looked good. I guess it's just locked up. Thanks for link, will give them a call. And prepare my wallet :-)

Thank you guys!
1983 Trojan Tri Cabin
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Old Flame
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Joined: Tue Mar 06, 2007 2:05 pm
Location: Upper Chesapeake Bay

'83 Tricabin AC

Post by Old Flame »

No help on the AC, but just had to comment on your great looking Tricabin. Being shed-kept does help. Mine's in an open slip.
Good luck with the AC. Might be a good time to convert to digital controls.
Jim - 1985 36' Tricabin
"Old Flame"
Sassafras Harbor Marina
Georgetown, MD
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nitro115
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Posts: 41
Joined: Tue Oct 23, 2007 7:45 pm
Location: Lake Norman, NC
Contact:
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Post by nitro115 »

Thanks for the compliment, Jim! I've been trying to keep her in a good and preferably original shape. The digital thermostat has definitely great advantages, have been playing with that thought for quite some time. But then, I would need two. They're not cheap, especially not when the heat pump itself needs to be replaced as well. The wife approval factor (WAF) certainly has a major role in this decision :-)
Oh yeah, the roof over the boat is priceless. I feel lucky to be able to have a slip like that and under 3.5k at Lake Norman, NC!
1983 Trojan Tri Cabin
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