How to test an unknown fridge compressor, without original wiring and no diagrams...

[turbokinetic]

Ever found an old fridge with missing relay, rotten wiring, and no diagram? This video will give you some pointers in testing to see if the compressor is viable and worth spending more time on it to get it in service.



Hope this is educational and helpful!

Sincerely,
David

 

[rp2813]

Wow David, that whole thing looked hopeless.  Nice rescue and an impressive recovery.  If I had been asleep for a few decades, it would take me a lot longer than half an hour to start functioning properly, that's for sure.  

 

[turbokinetic]

Thanks Ralph. I'm planning to rewire it, clearcoat it, and replace the door gasket; so that it will be usable without further deterioration. Then, will try to sell it locally to someone who does bodywork and can make it look nicer; or who wants a very heavily patina'd look. Believe it or not, those seem to be a lot more marketable than I originally would have expected.

 

[rp2813]

David, I know what you mean.  I have a 1950 GMC, all original, that has lived outside almost exclusively since 1960 (not a big deal near the California coast), and its last paint job happened in 1971.   When people see it, they almost always say, "Don't paint it!"  I can see their point.  It's very distinctive out there on the road.  With new paint, it would look like any other truck of similar age.

 

I guess the "shabby chic" look is in style with vintage appliances now.  This is the first I've heard, but it makes sense if you're wanting a certain distressed look in a man cave or whatever.

 

[turbokinetic]

Very cool truck! Thanks for those pictures!