Quote:
Originally Posted by Bill
Travis -
That corroded broken tube at 4:03 is a coolant tube, isn't it? If so, I would think that all the working fluid (coolant) has escaped from the system. Is that your impression? If so, you probably need to replace the entire cooling system.
Complete cooling systems are available, both rebuilt and new. I think they go for considerably less cash than a new refrigerator.
On the other hand, if the unit's plastic interior has melted, and the controls and wires are damaged, you may be faced with installing an all-new unit. At least that is a lot less work.
Bill
|
Bill,
Thanks for the input and support. The broken tube is a gas line (LP) that goes from the upper control valve down to the burner. So, no coolant leaks. All of that is intact.
There is zero damage to the interior or the actual cooling system. It appears the thick layer of rat poop and the giant insulation rat nest keep most of the heat away from the cabinet. All of the cabinet insulation had been removed and was shared between nests on each side and the top of the unit.
Today I removed the damaged gas line and spliced in a new piece and joined the existing line on the back of the fridge (beyond all the damage). I have video I will post on that when I have the opportunity. The gas line that goes from the main valve at the rear bottom and up to the upper control valve assembly was very dirty (imagine that...) but was not corroded. So I did not do anything to it.
I did have a several wires that got hot enough to melt some of the insulation. I have repaired all of that and everything is back together. Afterwards we took it outside, put it on its side and basically washed everything with soap and water. Once dry, I will spray all metal components with an acid neutralizer (like you use on a wet cell battery). That will be good for all the metal parts. I do have to retape parts of the cabinet that seals the cooling unit to the box. The OEM tape basically just rotted away.
So...I think I have this thing whipped. However, I remain in shock at what we found. Praying that all is well once reinstalled! Now got to get busy on reinsulating the cabinet. Thanks again for the input!
