Had a call to a counter with a 1/3hp danfoss r12 comp, walked in to hear that familiar 'hummm click'
Checked the start cap at 79uf which was ok, checked the windings which all added up ok.

I carry potential relays for bigger stuff, anything from 1hp up to 5hp but nothing for these little current relay compressors.

I would normally try a new set of electrics before condeming a compressor but in this case i settled for putting the amp meter on the live feed which showed 16.2A and also the start cap wire which showed 5.3A when it was trying to start, to me this showed the relay was doing its job as if there was no contact no current would flow. Decided comp was seized and advised a new fridge due to the age and condition. I don't supply new ones so its not like i'm trying to make money for myself

What do you think of this method of checking for a relay or compressor failure?

I know some friends in the trade who condemn a comp on hearing the hum, without taking any tools out, so am interested to learn whats acepted practice for this size of equipment

Cheers Jon