TURBOLYTIC50 – CAPACITOR

AmRad Turbolytic 50 universal motor-start capacitor. AmRad publishes it as a permanent replacement start capacitor covering values up to 324 MFD at 330 V, with rust-free brass terminals and non-PCB dielectric fluid, made in the USA with a 5 year warranty. Verify the required MFD range against the motor before installing.

Specifications published by the manufacturer. Source: manufacturer documentation.

Specs

• BrandAmRad
• ModelTurbolytic 50
• TypeUniversal motor-start capacitor
• CapacitanceReplaces up to 324 MFD
• Voltage330 V
• TerminalsBrass
• Warranty5 year
• OriginMade in USA

Can I use a 440 VAC capacitor in place of a 370 VAC?

Yes. The voltage number is the maximum the capacitor can withstand, not a strength rating, so 440 goes anywhere 370 was called for and it generally lasts longer through a Dallas summer. The reverse is not true - do not put a 370 where 440 is specified. Either way the microfarad has to match the nameplate.

Is a bigger microfarad rating better?

No, and this one costs people compressors. A capacitor does not boost anything. Raising microfarad raises start winding current, which is how you cook a compressor early. Match the nameplate. Most run capacitors are built to plus or minus 6 percent, so a 35 microfarad unit reading 33 to 37 is in spec, and a 35 reading 28 is trash even though your meter still shows a number.

What do HERM, FAN and C mean on a dual run capacitor?

C is common and takes the line leg. HERM feeds the compressor, FAN feeds the condenser fan motor. A 35/5 is 35 microfarad on HERM and 5 on FAN. You can replace one dual with two singles of the matching values if there is room, but never land two loads on a terminal that is not C.

How do I work on one safely?

Shut off the breaker and pull the disconnect. That is it. Ignore anybody who tells you to short the terminals with a screwdriver. That advice is wrong and we have banned it here. A run capacitor stays wired across the motor windings, so cutting power bleeds it off through the winding within seconds.