Due to issues with depth,width, and height, I would like to keep my 40 yr. old GE refrigerator/top freezer going in it's confined nook.

The compressor runs constantly even though the Freezer temp is [ 8 degrees ] and the Fridge temp is [ 38 degrees ]. The compressor fan motor is also running slowly, tight bearing, so I would replace that.

All my research points to the Temp Control Thermostat. Is this the most likely problem? Or is there another switch or relay involved to make the compressor cycle off? How would I test the Temp Control Thermostat [WR9X355] with my digital meter?

Thanks, BLT

Thanks Richappy,

I replaced the condenser fan with a new one which is rated ar 1550 RPM. Faster than the old one but not as impressive a flow as I expected.

The freezer did get down to -2 degrees but the refregerator took several hours to reach this. I set the separate freezer and frig controls to slightly warmer settings and the compressor runs much less. About 55 minutes on and 65 minutes off. Freezer gets down to 8 degrees and up to 18 degrees btween cycles and frig gets to 38 and 42 between cycles.

It runs quietly so I think this is the best I can expect for a 42 yr. old GE.

I am curious? What cycle times do new refrigerators run at on average?

BLT

Your freezer temperature is too warm at 8 degrees to safely store meats and the fridg runs too long. A modern fridg will run about 20% of the time. I would estimate you are waisting around $80 a month. A new fridg would pay for itself in a few years and consume about $8 a month.