Entegra Esteem – AC Capacitor & Fan Motor Service

Entegra Esteem – AC Capacitor & Fan Motor Service

by

Complete repair guide for the Entegra Esteem – 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 Entegra Esteem’s air conditioner for 10-15 minutes and use the non-contact infrared thermometer to measure the temperature differential between the evaporator inlet and outlet—a healthy system shows a 15-20°F drop. Listen for unusual humming, buzzing, or rattling sounds from the rooftop unit, which indicate a failing capacitor or motor bearing. Kill power to the AC system at your RV’s main breaker and visually inspect the rooftop unit for visible damage, corrosion, or refrigerant oil leaks around the compressor and copper lines.

Step 2: Remove Rooftop AC Shroud & Access Components

With the system powered down and cooled, climb onto your roof and locate the four corner bolts securing the rooftop AC shroud/outer cover (typically 3/8″ or 10mm). Carefully lift and remove the shroud, noting the position of any wiring harnesses connected to the thermostat control board and fan motor leads. Set the shroud aside on a blanket to prevent roof surface damage and keep track of all fasteners in a labeled container.

Step 3: Disconnect & Test the Dual Run Capacitor

Before touching the capacitor, use a non-contact multimeter or capacitor tester to verify the unit is fully discharged—this is critical to prevent electrical shock. Locate the RV AC dual run capacitor (typically a cylindrical component rated 35/5 µF or similar) and photograph its wire positions before disconnecting. Carefully disconnect the three terminals (HERM, FAN, COM) by gently pulling the spade connectors straight off; if the capacitor reads significantly below its rated microfarad specification, it must be replaced.

Step 4: Replace Capacitor & Install New Fan Motor

Install the new RV AC dual run capacitor by pressing the spade connectors firmly onto the matching terminals in the exact same positions as the original. Next, unbolt the fan motor from its mounting bracket (typically 2-3 mounting bolts) and disconnect the motor lead from the control board; carefully slide out the old motor and insert the replacement RV rooftop AC fan motor, ensuring the shaft rotates freely by hand. Reconnect the motor lead securely and torque all mounting bolts to 8-12 ft-lbs to prevent vibration-related noise.

Step 5: Clean Evaporator Coils & Straighten Fins

Spray the AC evaporator/condenser coil cleaner foam across the entire coil surface, working from top to bottom, and allow 10-15 minutes for the foam to break down accumulated dust and debris. Use the fin comb/coil straightener tool to gently straighten any bent aluminum fins, working in the direction of the fin rows to restore optimal airflow—bent fins reduce cooling efficiency by up to 30%. Rinse the coil thoroughly with low-pressure water (under 40 PSI) to remove loosened debris and foam residue.

Step 6: Seal & Reinstall Rooftop AC Shroud

Inspect the AC roof gasket for cracks, hardening, or compression damage; if compromised, install the new AC roof gasket around the unit’s base to prevent water infiltration. Apply a bead of self-leveling sealant along the gasket seam and around all fastener holes, then carefully lower the shroud back onto the unit, aligning all bolt holes. Torque the four corner bolts in a cross-pattern (like tightening wheel lugs) to 10-14 ft-lbs to ensure even pressure and prevent roof leaks.

Step 7: Power Up & Verify AC Cooling Performance

Restore power at your RV’s main breaker and set the thermostat to cooling mode with the temperature set 5 degrees below ambient conditions. Let the system run for 15-20 minutes, then use the non-contact infrared thermometer to measure the temperature drop across the evaporator—you should see 15-20°F differential and feel strong, cold air at all ceiling vents. Check that the fan motor runs smoothly without vibration or noise, and verify the capacitor shows no signs of bulging or leaking; if cooling performance remains subpar, your compressor may require service.