Model# 444-3
Serial # VH73441085

This unit has been flawless for years...

Today I got the call that it wasn't working. I came home and found the thermal overload button popped out. I reset it and found that the unit only hummed without spinning. I am able to cause it to spin by coaxing the blades with a wooden spoon. When spinning, it works fine and sounds normal. If I shut it off and try to restart it, it simply hums again!!!!!!

The blades seam quite easy to turn by hand (wooden spoon that is).

If I bank the sink while it hums, it will usually start!!!!

It's as if it has a low speed start circuit that won't quite kick in.

Any advice?

As always, I am humbled by your knowledge....

John
aka Forby

Hi John,

The motor on it is bad, its would cost less just to replace the whole garbage disposal than just the motor.

Jake

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Appliance Repair School 1987-1988
Star Appliance Tech. 2 yrs. 1988-1990
Wards Appliance Tech. 11 yrs. 1990-2001
Sears Appliance Tech. 4 yrs. 2001-Oct. 2005
Jake's Appliance Repair Nov. 2005-present

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Thanks Jake......

I don't mind just replacing it, as long as it can't be fixed for a couple of bucks....

Yes, I understand completely.

I priced that motor(stator) online, its about $72 and new disposals start at $100.

But I can't locate a repair manual online to assist you, as I've never myself changed a motor out on a disposal before myself.

Jake

__________________
Appliance Repair School 1987-1988
Star Appliance Tech. 2 yrs. 1988-1990
Wards Appliance Tech. 11 yrs. 1990-2001
Sears Appliance Tech. 4 yrs. 2001-Oct. 2005
Jake's Appliance Repair Nov. 2005-present

If you need more repair advice help on your appliance, click Here

Look-Up & Order Parts

Shop Home Appliances

It's been so long since I installed one that I forgot the system.... Can I buy the same brand and not have to fuss with the plumbing much or am I likely to need to start from scratch?

Yes, but looks like they don't make that same model 444, but if you go to any hardware or plumbing store in your area, they will usually have a chart of what model is equivalent to yours.

Looks like yours is a 3/4 horsepower.

Jake

__________________
Appliance Repair School 1987-1988
Star Appliance Tech. 2 yrs. 1988-1990
Wards Appliance Tech. 11 yrs. 1990-2001
Sears Appliance Tech. 4 yrs. 2001-Oct. 2005
Jake's Appliance Repair Nov. 2005-present

If you need more repair advice help on your appliance, click Here

Look-Up & Order Parts

Shop Home Appliances