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Rain Bird RC-7A Analog Controller: Stuck Station Repair

15-year-old Rain Bird RC-7A analog timer: stations should run 10 min each but now stick until manually advanced. Owner loves the controller and wants repair info.

Diagnosis: Indexing Motor Failure

The RC-7A uses small synchronous motors to advance the cam stack. One motor (advance/indexing motor) has failed.

Repair Procedure

Remove faceplate (take a digital photo of wiring first).
Locate the two motors: one for timekeeping, one for station advance.
Replace the advance motor: remove 2 wire nuts, 2 screws, swap motor.
Reassemble using photo reference.

Parts and Cost

Motor part number available from Rain Bird distributor.
DIY cost: ~$30–50 for motor.
Pro repair: $100+ but worthwhile for a 25-year controller.

RC series are legendary for durability. Repairing preserves a great controller.

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