The original condenser fan motors on ReliaTel and Electromechanical condensers has been replaced with MOT18819 (208-230vac) and MOT18820 (460vac). There have been numerous reports from the field where when replacing the original motor with one of these motors that is controlled by a variable speed head pressure control or low ambient kit, the motors overheat and fail prematurely. There have also been reports of these motors overheating on units that do not have these variable speed controllers.
At this time, there is no official fix other than using a different motor.
Trane no longer sells BAYLOAM kits that use the ICM333 variable speed controller and all kits now utilize the ICM334 on/off controller. The original motors offered on Odyssey were manufactured by AO Smith and were more robust than the current motors with an estimated 1.1HP and heaver windings. AO Smith stopped manufacturing the original motors and Trane Aftermarket Parts sourced Regal motors as the replacement that are true 1HP motors.
The recommendations are:
- Remove the ICM333/P66 controller and replace with ICM334
- Use one of the motors listed below
- Source a motor from a different vendor
Suggestions from electrical engineering:
- 208-230 vac applications use FC1106F, this is a wholesale motor that can operate in both 460 vac and 200-230 vac applications
- 460 vac applications use OLE1106H or FC1106F
Both motors are available through Trane Parts
WARNING:
Information in this article is intended for use by individuals possessing adequate backgrounds of electrical and mechanical experience and who comply with all federal, state, and local laws, rules, orders, or regulations related to the installation, service, or repair of a heating or central air conditioning product. Any attempt to install, service, or repair a heating or central air conditioning product may result in personal injury and/or property damage. The manufacturer or seller cannot be responsible for the interpretation of the information contained herein, nor can it assume any liability in connection with its use.