Jayco Alante – AC Capacitor & Fan Motor Service

Jayco Alante – AC Capacitor & Fan Motor Service

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Complete repair guide for the Jayco Alante – AC Capacitor & Fan Motor Service. Follow these steps to diagnose and fix the issue yourself.

Parts & Tools You’ll Need

Step 1: Diagnose AC Performance & Safety Check

Start by running your Jayco Alante’s air conditioner and noting any symptoms: weak cooling, unusual humming, clicking sounds, or complete failure. Use your non-contact infrared thermometer to measure the temperature difference between the intake and output vents—a properly functioning unit should show a 15-20°F temperature drop. Before proceeding, turn off power to the AC unit at the breaker and allow 30 minutes for residual electrical charge to dissipate from the capacitor.

Step 2: Remove Rooftop AC Shroud & Access Components

Climb onto your RV roof and locate the bolts securing the AC rooftop shroud (typically four corner bolts). Use a socket wrench to remove these bolts and carefully lift away the outer cover, exposing the motor assembly and capacitor underneath. Set the shroud aside in a safe location and inspect the AC roof gasket for cracks, gaps, or deterioration—this is an ideal time to replace it if needed.

Step 3: Test & Replace the RV AC Dual Run Capacitor

Locate the cylindrical RV AC dual run capacitor (usually 40/5 µF rating for Dometic or Coleman-Mach units) mounted near the compressor. Using an insulated screwdriver, discharge any residual voltage by touching the blade between the capacitor terminals and the metal chassis. Carefully disconnect the wire terminals (mark them with tape for reference) and unscrew the mounting bracket, then install the new RV AC dual run capacitor by reversing these steps and ensuring terminals are firmly seated.

Step 4: Inspect & Clean AC Coils & Motor Housing

Spray the AC evaporator/condenser coil cleaner foam liberally across the aluminum fins and allow it to sit for 10-15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with a garden hose at low pressure. Use the fin comb/coil straightener tool to gently straighten any bent fins along the coil face—bent fins reduce cooling efficiency by 3-5% per section. Wipe down the motor housing and fan assembly with a dry cloth to remove dust and debris buildup.

Step 5: Remove & Replace the Rooftop AC Fan Motor

Disconnect the fan motor’s electrical harness by releasing the quick-disconnect clip or unsoldering the wire leads if necessary. Remove the mounting bolts (typically three to four 1/4″ bolts) securing the motor to the shroud bracket and lift out the old unit. Position the new RV rooftop AC fan motor into place, align the mounting holes, install and tighten bolts to 12-15 ft-lbs, then reconnect the electrical harness ensuring polarity is correct.

Step 6: Reseal & Reinstall the Rooftop Shroud Assembly

Apply a continuous bead of AC roof gasket material or self-leveling sealant around the perimeter where the shroud contacts the roof (approximately 1/8″ width, 1/4″ depth). Position the rooftop AC shroud over the opening and insert the corner bolts, tightening them in a cross-pattern (opposite corners alternately) to ensure even pressure and prevent leaks. Tighten bolts to 18-22 ft-lbs and allow the sealant to cure for 24 hours before testing.

Step 7: Test System Performance & Verify Temperature Output

Power the AC unit back on and let it run for 10-15 minutes while monitoring performance. Use the non-contact infrared thermometer to confirm you’re achieving that 15-20°F temperature differential between intake and output, and listen for smooth motor operation without grinding or rattling sounds. Check the RV AC thermostat/control board display for normal operation and confirm no error codes are displayed; if performance is optimal, your capacitor and fan motor service is complete.