What causes an hvac condenser fan not to start, but when you give it a slight push it will run? Could it be the capacitor or the fan itself?

what causes an hvac condenser fan not to start, but when you give it a slight push it will run? Could it be the capacitor or the fan itself?

If you have the proper tools you can test the capacitor if not replace it since it is the cheapest item. If that does not work then you will need a new motor and a new capacitor that matches the motor capacitor rate. NOTE Some motors use different capacitor values.

Capacitor if it will run with a nudge or it is out on a heat overload.

If it is tough to move the blade than the windings are shot - new motor

You may get to new motor anyway