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Frequently Asked Questions About Domestic Refrigerator Repair:

Replacing a compressor on a really old fridge

I have a 1964 GE model TCF 16 CABG refrigerator. The refrigerator area is not getting cold. The GE repair technician told me that it is not defrosting and the compressor needs to be changed. He also said that this model compressor is not available anymore and my only option is to buy a new refrigerator. I would like to know what do you think about this and if I do have any other option. Thank you

Hmm, 1964, that's getting up there for a frost free design. The unit likely has what we call a submarine style compressor. While true, these are no longer available, they can be easily substituted. GE even sells a prefab bracket that accommodates the newer style compressors onto your style of frame.

So, I would say your current problem would be just the defrost circuit. For if the compressor wasn't working, you wouldn't be getting an accumulation of frost in the first place. The compressor is likely okay but for how long, who knows.

This technician must be leery of a scenario that often happens. Sometimes when you repair one thing on a really old one then something else goes wrong shortly after. With certain "tough" customers the tech usually ends up in an unpleasant and unprofitable situation.

Sorry, but through experience I've realized myself that if a customer seems that he is the type that would come back at me if something else happened to the unit after the first repair, I try to steer clear of doing it in the first place.

So, for you to get someone to repair your defrost circuit on this one, you may want to first voluntarily let them know up front that you realize the risk in it and if something else goes wrong you’re willing to pay for return visits. Hope this helps, and best wishes.