What is this Trane AC component?

[Mberglo]

I have a 10 year old Trane split unit heat pump that started tripping the 30A compressor breaker occasionally. I pulled the outdoor unit apart to clean it and think I found the issue. At the bottom of the compressor is an electrical component that appears broken. It's a brown cylinder (1/2 inch in diameter) fed by a lampcord that goes back up to the contactor relay. I would guess it's some sort of sensor or switch. It looks physically broken and might have been tripping the breaker when it got wet. I've taped it up and tied it up out of the way to keep it dry, and it's working. Sorry I don't have any pictures, but could dissassemble again if necessary.

Thanks in advance for any help identifying this part.

[HayZee518]

it could be a sensor or better yet, a crankcase heater.