Question 135Electricity/Electronics - QMED70% to pass
The motor fails to start on an attempted startup. With the start button depressed, a voltmeter reading between 1 and 5, as illustrated in figure "A", indicates line voltage available to the control circuit, what should be your next step in the troubleshooting process? Illustration EL-0007

AI Explanation
The correct answer is D) attempt to reset the overload relay and determine the cause of the overload if applicable.
The reasoning is that with a voltmeter reading between 1 and 5 volts, as illustrated in figure "A", it indicates that the line voltage is available to the control circuit. This suggests that the issue is likely not with the power supply, but rather with the control circuit itself. The next logical step in the troubleshooting process would be to check the overload relay, as it may have tripped, preventing the motor from starting. Resetting the overload relay and determining the cause of the overload would be the appropriate next step in the troubleshooting process.
The other options are not the correct next step in the troubleshooting process:
A) Ensuring the disconnect switch (DS) is closed is not necessary, as the voltmeter reading indicates that the power is available.
B) Testing the contactor coil "M" for continuity and replacing it if necessary is not the next logical step, as the issue is likely with the overload relay rather than the contactor.
C) Testing the stop button for continuity and replacing it if necessary is also not the next logical step, as the voltmeter reading indicates that the issue is not with the power supply or control circuit wiring.
Related Questions
#133 If you hear a loud buzzing noise coming from a magnetic motor controller, what should you do? #134 The motor starts when the start button in the illustration is pushed, but stops when the button is released. What is most likely the trouble? Illustration EL-0007 #136 The illustrated motor fails to start and gives a loud hum when the start button is depressed, what should then be your first action? Illustration EL-0007 #137 What can be the cause of excessive heat or burning contacts in an operating motor controller? #138 A capacitor is to be tested with a digital multimeter set up to measure ohms. If the meter is connected to a shorted capacitor, how would the meter display respond?