Trojan Boat Forum

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!

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/

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.

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!

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.

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!