Motor vs. capacitor

[supersurgilator]

As some of you know, the laundromat that I frequent has older SQ toploaders. However I was wondering, when the machine first starts it makes a click sound (just like the modern whirlpool machines) Anyway I was wondering if it is the capacitor making that sound or the motor. There are some old machines there that don't make a click when they start, however when 2 broke down and were repaired they now do it, so I was unsure as to whether the capacitor was replaced or the entire motor. I hope this makes sense to everyone, let me know if you need further clarification.

 

[rolls_rapide]

Maybe...

...the motor uses a relay solenoid to start the motor, rather than a capacitor?

Just a suggestion.

 

[johnb300m]

it's probably a centrifugal motor starter switch. when the motor gets up to speed, the switch opens. When it's shut off it closes again, making another click.

these are common on induction motors........so says my Motors class 3 years ago.

 

[MrX]

It's more than likely just a relay starting the motor / reversing the motor.

Commercial front loaders often have less than silent relays that make a fairly clearly audible 'click' as the machine tumbles each way.

You'll hear other clicks as the heater comes in and out etc too.