[skipjack]

This refrigerator does not run at all. Nothing works except the light (when you open the door).

This problem progressed in stages:
First - we noticed lots of clicking (once every few seconds) when it was trying to start. It would click maybe 10 or 15 times and then ultimately it would start and run. It went on this way for weeks (maybe months).

Next - finally the refrigerator would not start at all. Still the clicking (indicated it was trying to start?) could be heard if the temperature control was turned up. If you turned the control down low enough (around "1") the clicking would stop, but if you turned it up again, the clicking would start again, but it would not run.

Finally - there is now no clicking at all, no matter where the temperature control is set. The interior light still works when you open the door.

What I have done so far:
From reading on this forum, it seemed like the most likely candidates were the relays associated with the compressor. I ordered the PTC relay, the overload relay and the starting capacitor (from AppliancePartsPros!) but they did not fix the problem.

What next ? The circuit board ? I've spent over $100 so far and would like to be sure what is needed before dropping another $140 for the circuit board.

Thanks in advance for any advice!

Best regards,
Jim M.
Virginia

[Gene]

Hi Jim,

Unplug the encoder (#802 at the diagram) harness. Does the refrigerator start once the harness is unplugged?

If the answer is "yes", replace the encoder board.

If the answer is "no", replace the main control board.


- The encoder board Part number: WR55X10625

- The main control board Part number: WR55X10942

Here are the breakdown diagrams and Parts for GE GDL20KCSABS Refrigerator - AppliancePartsPros.com

Gene.

[skipjack]

Thanks Gene for the helpful advice. Sorry so long responding - have been traveling.

I pulled the harness from the encoder board (#802) as you suggested. The black relay on the main board now clicks back and forth (1 or 2 seconds between clicks) but the refrigerator does not run.

Also, it doesn't matter what setting (0-9) the temperature control is - it clicks at all settings.

Still same advice (replace main board) ?

Thanks,
Jim

[Gene]

Yes Jim. No doubt about it.

Sorry for the delay.

Gene.

[skipjack]

Thanks Gene! I'll order the board.

[Gene]

You are welcome. Keep us posted.

Gene.

[skipjack]

Well, it looks like the main control board was the problem. Finally got time to replace it over the weekend, and the refrigerator is now humming quietly and nice & cold. Thanks so much for the great advice!

I should have posted the question first, instead of blindly replacing capacitor & relays..... (!)

Thanks again,
Jim

[Gene]

You are welcome Jim. I'm glad it's up and running.

Gene.