Leisure Travel Vans Unity – AC Capacitor & Fan Motor Service

Leisure Travel Vans Unity – AC Capacitor & Fan Motor Service

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Complete repair guide for the Leisure Travel Vans Unity – 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

Before touching any components, turn off your RV’s main electrical breaker and verify the system is de-energized using a multimeter set to AC voltage—you’re looking for zero volts across the capacitor terminals. Run the AC system for 2-3 minutes while powered on to identify whether the fan motor runs weakly, makes grinding noises, or doesn’t start at all; simultaneously check that the thermostat/control board powers on and displays readout. Document the capacitor’s microfarad rating (typically 20-40 µF for Dometic or Coleman-Mach units) printed on its cylindrical body—this ensures you purchase the exact replacement.

Step 2: Disconnect Power & Remove Rooftop Shroud

Switch off the main electrical breaker to the AC unit and wait 5 minutes for residual charge to dissipate, then remove the four corner bolts (typically M6 or 1/4-inch) securing the rooftop AC shroud/outer cover using a socket wrench. Carefully lift the shroud away from the unit—you may encounter corrosion or debris buildup, so gently work it free without forcing. Set the shroud aside in a safe location where it won’t be damaged or roll off the roof.

Step 3: Safely Discharge & Replace Run Capacitor

Using an insulated screwdriver, short the two capacitor terminals together to fully discharge any stored electrical energy, then hold for 10 seconds to ensure complete discharge. Disconnect the spade terminals from the capacitor by gently prying them upward with a flat-head screwdriver, photograph the wire positions before removal, and unscrew the mounting bracket bolt securing the old capacitor. Install the new RV AC dual run capacitor by reversing the process—ensure terminals are fully seated and the capacitor bracket is tightened to 8-12 inch-pounds to prevent vibration.

Step 4: Inspect & Service Fan Motor Assembly

Visually examine the rooftop AC fan motor for corrosion, bearing damage, or debris accumulation around the fan blades; if the motor shaft rotates freely by hand but won’t spin under power, the capacitor replacement alone may resolve the issue. If the motor exhibits grinding noise or doesn’t rotate at all, disconnect its power lead and unscrew the three motor mounting bolts (typically M8) to remove it for replacement. Before installing a new RV rooftop AC fan motor, check that the shaft spins smoothly and compare the voltage rating (120V or 240V) with your RV’s system specifications.

Step 5: Clean Coils & Straighten Bent Fins

Spray AC evaporator/condenser coil cleaner foam across the entire surface of both the evaporator and condenser coils, following product instructions for soak time (typically 10-15 minutes), then rinse thoroughly with a soft brush and distilled water to prevent mineral deposit buildup. Use the fin comb/coil straightener tool to carefully straighten any bent aluminum fins—work in one direction only, applying gentle pressure to avoid tearing the soft aluminum. Ensure all debris, dust, and foam residue are completely removed before reassembly, as blockages significantly reduce cooling efficiency.

Step 6: Seal & Reattach Rooftop AC Shroud

Inspect the existing AC roof gasket for cracks, tears, or hardening; if compromised, remove the old gasket completely and install a new AC roof gasket and self-leveling sealant according to manufacturer instructions—this typically involves applying a thin bead around the base perimeter. Carefully lower the rooftop AC shroud back into position, aligning the four corner bolt holes, and hand-tighten the bolts initially to ensure even seating. Tighten all four bolts in a crisscross pattern (diagonal sequence) to 12-15 inch-pounds to create even pressure and prevent warping or leaks.

Step 7: Test System Performance & Verify Repairs

Restore power to the AC unit via the main breaker and run the system on cooling mode for 10 minutes, listening for smooth fan motor operation and confirming the compressor cycles normally. Use the non-contact infrared thermometer to measure the temperature difference between the air entering the thermostat intake and the cooled air exiting the ceiling vents—you should see at least a 15-20°F temperature drop within 3-5 minutes. Check that the thermostat/control board displays accurate temperature readings and responds immediately to adjustments; if the system cycles correctly and achieves proper cooling, the capacitor and fan motor service is complete.