Originally Posted by
Cari-in-Oly
Miriam this was a lot more common in other countries than it was here. Have no idea why though.
On a higher AC voltage power supply (all of Europe, UK, Australia, New Zealand etc. actually most of the world) the capacitors prevent sparking from the motor brushes and suppressed AM radio interference. They're not required: I always remove them and throw them away.
The one time I didn't (because they seemed okay) they failed a day after I handed the machine back (it was a service). Taught me a good lesson.
I'd go with the surgeons here: If in doubt, cut it out.
Joe, is Elaine's machine still 220-240V? I'd remove that capacitor, but up to you. When it fails it'll just short circuit and the motor will go to full speed all the time