Here is a timeline to help explain. The problem occurs at #9

1. Last month I opened my Trane 1200XL compressor to clean out dead leaves, etc.
2. After cleaning and closing up, I reinserted the outdoor breaker.
3. Yesterday I switched thermostat to cooling mode for first time this season
4. Warm air blowing from vents
5. Checked compressor - not operating
6. Checked basement breaker box - all is good
7. Checked outdoor breaker - ah ha! - it was reinserted upside down!
8. Removed breaker and reinserted right side up (stupidly did not turn off system first)
9. IMMEDIATELY HEARD LOUD CRACKLING FROM COMPRESSOR AND PUFF OF BLACK SMOKE COMING FROM IT
10. Pulled breaker back out and shut off system.
11. Cursed.
12. Emailed HVAC guy but he can't come for a few days.

A. Did I kill my compressor?
B. What the heck happened?
C. Can it be fixed, or must I replace the entire compressor?
D. Are we in any danger?

There has been lots of rain here over the past month, perhaps there was a short circuit?

Thanks! If I get to Sears today I will buy a ratchet set so I can open the compressor and take a picture of anything that looks burned. I borrowed a ratchet to open it last time...

Do everything you planned,, but with the breaker pulled(turned off) you shouldn`t be in danger