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bsizemore
Nov 14, 2009, 12:35 PM
I have a TRANE model TWE040E130A1. The air handler motor will not run. It tries to start but sits there and rotates back and forth a couple of times and stops. It will repeat this cycle several times and then just stop. I have tried to assist the fan by spinning it in the direction of rotation with no success. It does not appear as thought the motor is faulty so I am thinking that this could either be a control board issue or starter cap issue. Not even sure if this motor has a starter cap. Any suggestions?

KC13
Nov 14, 2009, 01:04 PM
This sounds like the speed control module on the end of the motor has failed. You can probably remove it and peek inside for obvious signs of failure (burned resistors, swollen capacitors, etc.). Two long screws on the motor end, and a 3-pin connector inside. Pay attention to the locator notch when re-assembling. If no obvious signs of failure are observed, you may need a pro for accurate diagnosis.

bsizemore
Nov 14, 2009, 01:10 PM
There doesn't appear to be any module mounted on the exterior of the motor. It is all gray casting and still has the "GE" logo on the outside of it. I "think" that there may be a control board which could be suspect as well. I will take another look at the motor but I've looked pretty closely already and don't really notice any module that could be attached. Matter of fact, I recall seeing something on the casing about not removing screws?? I don't know... may be time for a pro

KC13
Nov 14, 2009, 01:36 PM
The module is encased in the motor end bell. Outwardly, it would not appear to be an electronic component, as the circuit board does. I've changed many of these on Bryant and Carrier units, the Trane is very similar.

bsizemore
Nov 14, 2009, 02:09 PM
Ok... I'll pull the motor and fan out... I was trying to avoid that, but obviously one or the other is going to need replacing. If the motor is good, will it operate directly with 220 applied? I can make a pigtail up and just hotwire it to verify that it isn't the controls. I really don't care about having a variable speed fan since I leave it running all of the time to circulate air throughout the house. Not the most efficient, but leaving the air handler running seems to keep the house cleaner. I live on a gravel road and the dust is horrible. Have to change the filters more frequently but it works. I use a Space Gard 2200 HEPA. I'll let you know how things turn out. Do you know if they sell the entire control module? I looked at the motor and it alone is like $538 which is pretty steep. I'm thinking that due to the way that I use the fan, I can get away with a cheaper motor that is single speed vs the variable speed motor that this is.
thanks again!

KC13
Nov 14, 2009, 06:26 PM
The motor CANNOT be powered directly without the module. I would not advise you to attempt a DIY motor conversion.