I have a Jet 2HP 230V 8" helical head jointer. The motor won't start on a seemingly random basis. Since the jointer is still under warranty (for a short time yet), Jet is replacing the motor so I'm not complaining. However, I'm troubled by the problem and am concerned that it might not be the motor.
More details - I can use the jointer repeatedly with no start/stop problems but the very next time I use it the motor won't start. Then it won't start for awhile until one day, it just starts again and the problem persists for a period of time until the motor starts again.
Here are a list of things which have been eliminated as the cause:
1. Consistent, adequate power - The power company has verified that 240V is available into the house and I have further verified via a tester that there are also 240V at the outlet. Jet has indicated that the motor requires a minimum of 208V to start. Since the measured power has not been below 240V when the motor won't start, this is not the cause.
2. Jointer Power Switch - Jet previously supplied a new switch which I installed. The jointer worked for about 5 uses then again wouldn't start. I bypassed the switch at Jet's request and the motor wouldn't start when plugged into the outlet.
3. Capacitor - Jet previously supplied me with a new capacitor and this was installed at the same time the new switch was installed. Jet indicates that, in their opinion, it isn't a bad capacitor because there is silence when the switch is turned on rather than a humming sound (which would indicate a bad capacitor).
4. Motor Plug-In - A cord from the motor plugs into the cord from the switch. I have tested this plug-in connection by unplugging and replugging several times and/or holding the plug end securely together. Only once did the motor start, but the random starting of the motor is the actual problem. Right after that it wouldn't start again.
Any suggestions of other causes besides just a bad motor? I would hate to have the motor installed; then have the same problem. Thanks in advance for any suggestions.