How to Change the Compressor on an Elite Frigidaire Fridge

Obtain a schematic diagram for the cooling system of the fridge in question by accessing the Sears Parts Direct website and entering the serial number of the fridge in the site's query bar. Download and print the diagram.

Purchase a replacement compressor for the fridge in question from the Sears Parts Direct website, using the links available on the parts list attached to the cooling system schematic diagram.

Remove all the food from your fridge and freezer and place it in a backup fridge elsewhere in the house or at a friend's house. Wait for the new compressor to arrive before doing so.

Unplug the refrigerator and pull the fridge away from the wall. Most compressors are at the lower back section of a fridge.

Locate the old compressor on the fridge using the schematic diagram -- all parts of the fridge's cooling system appear clearly marked on the diagram. The compressor consists of a black metal box with a domed top. Compressors are usually at the back of the fridge, toward the bottom of the unit, just above the floor.

Remove any parts blocking direct access to the compressor. Such parts may include the refrigeration coils and the defrost bar.

Unscrew the pipes from the fittings on the existing compressor. If necessary, put on safety glasses and heat the pipes with a torch to disconnect them – manufacturer's sometimes weld pipes to compressors. Only use a torch if you absolutely cannot disconnect the pipes manually. Heat the pipes with a small torch on a low flame to avoid heating anything else in the fridge.

Unscrew the screws holding the existing compressor in place, using a screw driver. Remove the screws.

Remove the existing compressor from the fridge.

Place the new compressor in the fridge, fitting in the exact spot previously occupied by the old compressor.

Affix the new compressor to the fridge using the screws you removed to take the old compressor out.

Apply any joint compound recommended by the manufacturer of the compressor to the threaded end of the compressor pipe fittings.

Attach piping to the new compressor by screwing the pipes onto the fittings on the compressor.

Weld the pipes in place. Apply solder to the joint of the pipe and compressor pipe fitting and heat the joint evenly with a torch by moving the flame of the torch slowly back and forth over the joint.

Replace any parts removed from the fridge to access the compressor. Plug the fridge back in and replace any food removed.