1948 Westinghouse refrigerator cooling problems

[Cmpayne]

I recently purchased my first vintage appliance. I purchased a 1948 Westinghouse refrigerator. It cools for 3 hrs then the freezer ice melts and the temperature increases. The air compressor continues to run. After several hours of being unplugged, I replug and it cools for 2 to 3 hrs before it stops. Is this the thermostat or something else?
Thanks
Chris

 

[rp2813]

Nice fridge!  I know exactly what it sounds like when it's running because I grew up with a '49 Westinghouse that my parents bought new.

 

I don't think it's a thermostat issue if the compressor (it compresses the freon gas, not air) continues to run.   Unfortunately, it's likely a case of a refrigerant (freon) leak or a tired and failing compressor.

 

Does it get louder the longer it runs?  That's what the '49 did when it finally gave up about ten years ago.

 

[goatfarmer]

I would venture to say there is a problem with the compressor.

 

[travis]

I would think it's low on a charge