Hello to all,
Looks like the problem is finally resolved. The latest fixes have the ref/freezer holding their assigned temps for more than a week now.
I'll put a few notes here that should wrap things up, and may help those searching for solution to a similar problem.
1) The pro service my sister had in to assess the problem got it wrong. They charged $80+ to say that replacing the condenser fan motor would fix the problem (and they would be able to do that for another $360). As we got a new motor from APP for $70, including shipping, you can figure their labor charge - and the fan motor is easily accessible with one connector.
2) Replacing the fan motor did not fix the problem, and the only response from service co. was that the new motor must have been DOA - not true.
3) The experts on this forum said the main control board (MB), should be replaced along with the fan motor; and that this was a well known issue/recommendation - and proved correct in this case. The service co. should have known this.
4) One of the last tips from these forums was to make sure the back cover was in place, to assure proper air flow over coils and compressor. I found no cover, when I first checked out the fridge - I don't know why the service co. didn't mention it was missing. I later found it in the garage (the previous owners must have removed it; but at least they left it with the house).
5) The replaced condenser fan motor was not observed to turn, and that lead me to these forums, and eventual solution.
6) While going through the tests recommended, we kept the unit working with the use of a floor fan to keep the compressor from overheating. However, the initial symptoms (warming fridge, first too cold freezer then warming freezer) returned. (also little/no air flow through fridge vents).
7) Ordered and replaced MB leaving fan motor from APP in place. Fan was now turning; but little air flow through fridge vents, and was taking way too long to cool down. More checks to the forum had me inspect evaporator assembly (vents). That was clear, and flap was not obstructed.
8) I guessed that the unit might be frost bound, and unplugged the unit for 5 days. The drain pan was again filled to overflowing - so about 1/2 gallon of ice must have been blocking the airflow.
9) With new board and fan motor, and the unit now thoroughly defrosted, the unit powered it up - and everything has been working since.
My recommendations for others with similar situation:
a) If you opt to use a service co. get references from people you know. If they charge for a diagnosis, hold them to it. Check online to see what parts cost (I recommend APP), so you can figure out if it's worth it to have the service co do the repair, do it yourself, or buy a new fridge.
b) Don't use a struggling fridge while you sort out the problem and order parts - ask friends or family to keep your frozen food, and get a dorm fridge to tide you over. One failure can cascade to others; and it will make it harder to figure out the issues. Use the time to defrost the unit, and remove and clean all the drawers and shelves, as well as the inside of the unit. This will make it easier to work on, and you'll have a like-new fridge, if you get it fixed.
c) Search these forums for all related issue/solutions. Even if you don't do the repair yourself, it can't hurt to know more about the problem.
d) Document your repair efforts with a digital camera - if nothing else, you can be sure you haven't forgotten to put back anything you took out or disconnected - and you can post a picture, if you can't describe it.
e) If it's this make/model always replace the main control board (along with any fans that fail). My guess is that the old MB also caused the defrost cycle to fail, leading to initial and later ice build up. In this case, the new fan motor only worked after a new MB was installed.
f) Seriously consider an extended warranty on any similarly designed new fridge - this was a 6 yr old unit, with a 5 yr warranty (and I think we were lucky to get away with less than $200 in new parts. Compare that to my 'old school' fridge that cost me less than $10 for a defrost timer about 5 years back.
I want to thank everyone that replied to these posts. While I had to figure out a few things on my own (being on the spot), we wouldn't have a working fridge now, without you.
BRN..
