Is it just the start relay, you are talking about, or is it the start capacitor?

The relay, as long as it is wired correctly will not damage the compressor, if its wired wrong, things could get interesting, not the least would be a blown circuit breaker.

The capacitor on the other other hand must be the correct capacity and the correct voltage rating or higher.

Gary

It is described as the start device with overload protection. The run capacitor was also shot and the parts store had the correct capacitor. The capacitor plugs into the start device that I am asking about.

Based on the information you provided I think the start and run windings may be on different pins which means you should use the correct relay not one that may work.

This start device is described in different places as a start device with overload protection and also as a combo relay with overload. So, if I understand what your suggesting that the combo relay or start device may be wired differently which is why there are three different part numbers that look the same. And the wiring difference can make a difference. Do I understand this correctly?

if you use a start device that is made to have the run winding pin on the right side pin and your compressor happens to have the run winding pin on the left side this equals burned out compressor.

Thanks. I have returned the start devices to the store and ordered the correct part.