Air Conditioning - How to replace condenser fan motor ?

Recently bought an 19 yr old home. Carrier A/C died in 10 days.
Condenser fan motor was of wrong spec. Instead of 1/4 hp, it had 1/3 hp.
Tech quoted 435$ for the motor (parts+labor)!!!!
Found one for $260 on web (incl shipping).

I need to know :: Is it easy to replace the motor+cap on my unit??
I am as green as you can get on A/C repair.
Help greatly appreciated.

If you are green, I suggest you get a technician or at least some good help. Although it is not a difficult job for someone with experience, the typical DIY'er will run into some trouble when it comes to connecting the new motor and removing the fan blade from the old motor.

If I understand correctly..... the replacement motor had more HP than the original? If so, this is not a problem. A higher horse replacement motor is not a bad thing. In fact it may have some advantages, such as running a bit cooler and possibly longer life.

$260 sounds high for just a motor. You may wish to shop around.

The fan motor is working fine. The run cap is blown.
If the bigger hp is good, then I will just replace the run cap.
I "assumed" that the run cap blew because of the higher hp.
I am seeing on web (expertappliance.com) that the run
cap (Carrier brand) is $82. Is this reasonable?

Thanks for the prompt response.

Im with Jim ....That 1/3 Hp was ok. Its that the RPM has to be the same and turn the same way CW or CCW as the old motor was. If you know electric could try Grainger or Johnstone Supply for a motor.

No. $82 for a run cap is not reasonable. Keep looking.

I agree, that's way too much. Look at the label on the motor and see what size capacitor is required. Then go to your local supply house and get a replacement. The Carrier part may be different from the capacitor required for your motor.