UPDATE: I added a couple photos of what our Kenmore Coldspot 106.74264401 model panel looks like inside. Yours will probably be a little different but it should be similar. I needed to drop the panel down today to make sure the control board that I also ordered was the same one. We just bought this exact fridge in the Whirlpool name brand from a local store so the spare parts that I now have will probably fit in both, just in case. I've been repairing appliances for 50 years so and when something fails, it goes on my "honey-do" list, LOL.
I apologize for not taking photos while I had this panel taken apart but we had a freezer full of new groceries and I was in a hurry. However, there are many online videos of how to replace your thermostat plus this is as easy as assembling a small end table, except that you have some pressure because food can spoil. But this was so easy and quick that was done in about 15 real minutes. Here are some pointers:
1. In the Whirlpool/Kenmore Coldspot models like ours, there are two hex screws that hold the panel in place. Hold the panel with one hand because it will drop down as soon as you remove them. The rear of the panel is held in place by two plastic tabs. Try not to break them or you could have to resort to duct tape at the rear, LOL. Actually, the two hex screws would probably hold it in place anyway.
2. The panel will be hanging by a flat plastic rod that controls air control to the freezer section, plus in my case, three connectors. These are simple automotive-style connectors with plastic tabs that must be shifted to separate them. Fingernails will get that job done. Undo those.
3. Now, turn the unit 90 degrees so that you can disconnect the flat air control knob. It consists of a slot with a tab that fits into the slot. It's pretty durable, but you definitely don't want to snap that tab off.
4. Now pull the panel out, close the fridge door, and set it somewhere that will have adequate light.
5. The thermostat has to connectors and a ground lead. All this will be obvious. The control board was in there also with my model. The hardest part here will be pulling the end of the sensor tube out of the plastic slot on the housing. A small screwdriver or tool helps here. The new sensor tube end simply snaps into that slot. It's held in by little tabs.
6. On our model, the knob for the thermostat goes on the INSIDE of the housing so it must be snapped onto the thermostat shaft before clipping the new thermostat into the housing.
7. Remember to insert that tab for the freezer air control, then plug the connectors back together, slip the back tabs into position, and then insert and tighten the mounting screws. Plug the fridge back in and let it run for about 4-6 hours. II set both of my controls - fridge and freezer - to position 4 to get the food back to cold.
I bought dry ice in advance to doing this work, which was a waste of money. As long as you work quickly, you won't need it.
Brand | ATMA SUPPLY |
---|---|
Special Feature | Fast Reading System, Alarm |
Color | Silver |
Age Range (Description) | Adult |
Included Components | 1 x 2200859 |
Outer Material | Plastic |
Display Type | Digital |
Product Care Instructions | Wipe Clean |
Power Source | Battery Powered |
Model Name | 2200859 |
Upper Temperature Rating | 4E+1 Degrees Fahrenheit |
Response Time | 500 Milliseconds |
Reusability | Reusable |
Indoor/Outdoor Usage | Indoor |
Manufacturer | ATMA SUPPLY |
Part Number | 2200859 |
Item Weight | 4.2 ounces |
Package Dimensions | 4.8 x 4.09 x 2.44 inches |
Item model number | 2200859 |
Special Features | Fast Reading System, Alarm |
Batteries Included? | No |
Batteries Required? | No |