[bkfnj]

I am trying to replace "Switch, door Part Number: AP3132744" in my Amana TX21R2W refrigerator.
I checked your online diagram, ordered/received the part and searched the forums for tips but they don't solve my specific problem.
I can see the release tab on the new switch but I can't find a way to release the bad switch "externally" with a screwdriver/butter knife, or, "internally" by removing the control panel (2 front screws) and gently prying the front panel down a half inch to get a screwdriver in there to press the release tab.
I can't see over the control panel "lip" in front of the switch and I'm afraid I'll break something inside by blindly fishing.
I would appreciate any specific direction/advice on how to remove the old switch.

[Gene]

Try to completely remove the control housing. There suppose to be 2 more screws on the back of it.

Gene.

[bkfnj]

Resolved: See [Solved - Switch removal Tab release]

I don't see any other screws to remove and the Panel resists probes for release. It seems like this is more difficult to release and remove safely. I can only partially pull half of the front panel down. I think the control sliders may break if I don't find a way to release the panel all the way around. Any specific further advisement would be appreciated. Thanks for your help...

[bkfnj]

Originally Posted by bkfnj

I am trying to replace "Switch, door Part Number: AP3132744" in my Amana TX21R2W refrigerator.
I checked your online diagram, ordered/received the part and searched the forums for tips but they don't solve my specific problem.
I can see the release tab on the new switch but I can't find a way to release the bad switch "externally" with a screwdriver/butter knife, or, "internally" by removing the control panel (2 front screws) and gently prying the front panel down a half inch to get a screwdriver in there to press the release tab.
I can't see over the control panel "lip" in front of the switch and I'm afraid I'll break something inside by blindly fishing.
I would appreciate any specific direction/advice on how to remove the old switch.

[Solution]
Pried the left side (opposite the Tab side) of the door switch down about 3/8" so I could use a Dremel with a thin flat 15/16" cutting wheel
to cut a 1/8"H x 1/4"D front to back slot just above the entire left switch lip.
Then I was able to coax/slide the switch body left (into the cut left slot) enough to expose and release the Tab.
From there, It was simple to pull the switch and the 2 wire cable down enough to unplug the bad switch, plug in (new terminals about 1/8" wider apart - but fit) the new switch and push/snap it into the control panel to complete the successful repair..

[Gene]

I'm glad you were able to fix it. Thank you for the feed back.

Gene.