Trane FM Bearings or new system???

14 years ago

As suggested by another member last week, the fan motor bearings in my 16 y.o. Trane 2 ton system are squealling. (I'm in FL, sys. used all the time) Had company out yesterday and said $400 total to replace fan motor. I asked about changing bearings, he said they don't do that. He noted that crankcase heater is disconnected; and thermal coil sensor has also been disconnected sometime in the past by somebody. He suggested I consult with their sales staff and salesman came out and went over Carrier systems with me (15 seer Payne R-140A, PH15NA024/Pf4MNC031 2 ton ... $3,500 total). Does not recommend Trane. Says they are having a problem with aluminum *something* outside that breaks down and that Carrier does not have that problem. They are a big company here. Anyway, I'm wondering what I should do ... fix it or get new system and eat spaghetti the rest of the year. Any thoughts would be much appreciated. Dee

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Comments (10)

vhehn
14 years ago
i think in this case i would change out the fan motor if money is tight. you could get several more years out of your system with small cost.
tigerdunes
14 years ago
deealex

regardless that they rhyme, I am not certain I would replace a Trane with a Payne.

I don't understand why tech did not recommend replacing fan bearings but did the fan motor.

That is pure nonsense about Trane aluminum coils, generally regarded as one of the best on the market.

Was Payne price before or after the tax credit?

I have to admit I am dubious about the advice you received. Did you have to pay for this service call?

Are you inland or coastal environment?

unless extended, the tax credit of up to $1500 for HPs expires in 2010.

post back.

IMO
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deealex
Original Author
14 years ago
Thanks for responding.

Tech said that they don't normally replace bearings; that it's best to replace the whole fan motor.
Yes, charged me $91 for the diagnosis. tech said it would be another $91 service call and $300 to replace fan motor if that's the way I go.

I am inland.

Total for Payne w/out elec co. rebate or tax rebate is $3,799 (includes new refrig. lines, thermostat, and disconnect box). Their newer "Carrier Performance Series" 15.5 seer 2 ton, would be $4725 w/out any rebates.

Yes, I was always under impression Trane is best but sales rep. kept pushing carrier when I mentioned any other brands. Why would that be?

I seem to get *taken* by service people lately (single woman) and am trying not to let that happen again. Thanks for helping.

Dee
tigerdunes
14 years ago
deealex

is this a sgl family home or condo?

you plan to remain in this dwelling for the future?

I have to admit I am not certain I would spend any serious money even $400 on a 16 yr old system. It does appear that the Payne system qualifies for the rebate which in your case would be around $1K. If this is not an emergency and budget is not an issue, I would shop around for several more quotes.

I do not consider Payne in the same quality level as Trane. I can make some suggestions if you like.

IMO
Good Luck!
deealex
Original Author
14 years ago
Yes, please tell me what brands you think are good. Is Goodman considered a good brand?

It's a single family 1050 sq. ft. and I'm here indefinitely. Is tech suppose to inspect the vents in the attic (as one co. told me over phone) during free estimate?

I'm single and have been *taken* a few times lately, so am trying to not let that happen again. I very much appreciate your thoughts and suggestions on brands also, please.

Dee
tigerdunes
14 years ago
deealex

these are my minimum specs for a new HP system. both outside and inside units should be replaced to have a properly matched system.

15 SEER, 12.5+ EER, 9 HSPF
best matching VS air handler
full BTUs in both cooling and heating for your rated size
R-410a refrigerant(same as Puron)
scroll compressor preferred
electronic demand defrost preferred
thermostat with "dehumidify on demand" feature
staged backup heat strips
new and correctly sized refrigerant lineset

you want a thorough inspection of your ductwork system. size, overall condition, supply and return lines, insulation qualities, leak test, etc.

any hot/cold spot issues in your home should be addressed.

I would only use authorized dealers for the various brands that provide quotes. see mfg websites.

I would not recommend Goodman or put it in my home. that's my prejudice.

here are several matched systems. all qualify for the tax credit. just for the record, what area of Florida-North, Panhandle,Central, or Southern?

Bryant Legacy 15
3405995 Active Systems LEGACY 15 PURON HP BRYANT HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEMS 225ANA024-B FV4CN(B,F)003 23600 13.00 16.00 23600 8.80 14400

Trane XR14
1382135 Active Systems XR14 WEATHERTRON TRANE 4TWR4024C1 4TEE3F39A1 25000 13.00 15.00 24000 9.00 13800

IMO
Good Luck!
deealex
Original Author
14 years ago
I'm on the east coast (inland) 2 hours south of Jacksonville.

Thank you so much for your help. I'm new here ... how do you happen to know so much about these heaters/ac.

Dee
maryland_irisman
14 years ago
deealex,

Tigerdunes is in the business. I have also been in the business since 1975. I have observed tigers recommendations many times and would not dispute any recommendations he has made, helping folks in this forum. He is excellent with his equipment recommendations. As for his opinions and advice above, I agree completely. You'll find a wide range of opinions and disagreements in any of the A/C and heating forums so don't be discouraged. If you follow the above advice, you won't be disappointed.

Tiger, you can send me 100 bucks for the support info if you want!!!
tigerdunes
14 years ago
Hey Irisman

I appreciate the compliment and words of support.

I don't know about that $100 but definitely a burger or BBQ with brew or sweet tea.

I just try to be helpful where I can along with educating the homeowner.

You live in Maryland? I will never forget a road trip I made many years ago to Crab Claw in St Michaels.

Thanks again.
TD
maryland_irisman
14 years ago
Yes, I'm based in Md. We cover Md, D.C., N. Va., S. Pa., Portions of Del.

As those St. Michaels folks would say... luv em' creebs

Trane FM Bearings or new system???

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