1947 GE refrigerator partially cooling
Jan 23, 2021 5:25:24 GMT
coldspaces, ckfan, and 1 more like this
Post by turbokinetic on Jan 23, 2021 5:25:24 GMT
On a side note ...
Has any one every tried installing a newer style compressor on a fridge like this ? I know that’s probably not the favorable way to go on this forum but this fridge is in great shape cosmetically and I did finally find the leaks. They are all on the tubes connecting the different sections the evaporator together.
Figure if there is modern equivalent of the original compressor I could maybe make up a metal plate to install the new one on seeing as the mounting would be totally different. Just a thought. Here’s a pic of the model number plate with all the specs.
Another concern is that these early systems with the "flooded evaporator" have a very large refrigerant volume compared to the modern systems for which the new compressors are designed. This makes it very easy for the oil to get diluted with refrigerant, or for the oil to leave the compressor and become trapped in other parts of the system.
In talking to others who have made more conversions than I have; it is generally considered a good idea to add supplemental oil to the system beyond the compressor's original charge. Some suggest adding an additional 15% to 20% by volume. In other words, if the compressor states it comes with 300ml of oil in it, you should pre-install an additional 45 to 60 ml of oil into the system to make up for what will remain in circulation and outside of the compressor during operation. With modern systems, there is not a lot of volume in the lines and coils to hold oil. So the compressor gets back any oil it sends out, quickly. New compressors just come with enough oil for that design.
With vintage flooded evaporator systems, too much oil can be pushed out of the compressor and stay in various parts of the system, causing a low oil condition in the compressor. Adding extra oil is supposed to mitigate this.
So, to use a modern compressor; the "formula" I have seen recommended is this:
-Same HP as original.
-Correct capillary tube for compressor and refrigerant.
-Be sure to order a compressor that does not require air cooling.
-Pre-install extra oil as explained above.
Hope this is helpful!