How do I diagnose a Tecumseh compressor that won't start?

For a Tecumseh compressor that won't start: (1) check power supply voltage at the compressor terminals; (2) check the internal overload — if the compressor is hot to the touch, it has tripped on thermal overload and needs to cool for 30-60 minutes before restarting; (3) check starting components (start capacitor, start relay); (4) check for seized compressor by measuring current on startup attempt.

What is the correct wiring for a Tecumseh compressor with CSIR starting?

Tecumseh CSIR (Capacitor Start Inductive Run) compressors: connect the start capacitor between the S (start) and C (common) terminals, with the start relay in series with the capacitor. The current relay mounts on the C terminal connection. Run winding is from R to C. Verify capacitor rating matches the compressor nameplate — incorrect capacitance causes hard starting and motor burnout.

How do I check if a Tecumseh compressor has good valves?

After recovering refrigerant, valve-off the suction service valve and apply low pressure nitrogen (1 bar) to the discharge service valve. If nitrogen leaks back to the suction side within 5 minutes, the discharge valve is leaking. Similarly, test suction valves by pressurizing the suction side and listening for back-leakage. Faulty valve plates cause high suction pressure and poor cooling performance.

What oil should I use in a Tecumseh compressor for R134a?

Tecumseh recommends Tecumseh HP38 or equivalent ISO VG 22 POE oil for R134a applications. For R404A and R22 models, check the Tecumseh oil specification sheet as recommendations vary by product line. Always verify the oil specification on the compressor data tag — using incorrect oil type or viscosity can void the warranty and cause premature failure.

Refrigeration

Tecumseh error codes, decoded.

Look up any Tecumseh fault code below. Each one is grounded in Tecumseh's own service documentation — the meaning, the symptoms, the causes, and the steps to clear it.

By Octavian Ghindea

Co-founder & CTO · Reviewed August 2026

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Tecumseh sits in our Refrigeration coverage. Every page here is transcribed from the manufacturer's manuals, not scraped from forums.

What error codes does Tecumseh display?

Tap a code for the full breakdown — meaning, symptoms, causes, and fix steps.

Internal OL trip

Thermal overload — let cool, check voltage and refrigerant state

Hard start

Starting components or capacitor fault

Valve leakage

Suction or discharge valve wear — compressor near end of life

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