Info Wanted on GE Combo Fridge Line

[rp2813]

Hey guys, I hope to soon be starting my search for a GE Combo. Can anyone advise on, or direct me to a source for, information relating to the various changes made during the production run for these machines? I know that later units started using magnetic seals rather than latches. I'd sure like to find that type.

Any suggestions on where to find pix of the various makes and models over the years that would help me identify anything I might see on Craigs List or elsewhere for sale?

Thanks,

Ralph

 

[58limited]

The magnetic seal (alnico seal) became available in 1951. I have a '51 with this seal, had to replace it and used a readily available modern type seal.

 

[swestoyz]

A '51 GE Combo was donated to me last fall. Most of the '51 combos came with the new alnico seal, except for one model - the NH8-HB. Per the GE docterine (dated January 1951):

"Because of the foreign situation, certain basic materials are rapidly becoming scarce. The first to be affect was cobalt, which is one of the mainstays of the Alnico magnetic door seal, and consequently the NH8-HB Model has been produced to take place of the NHX8-HB."

Great fridge so far. Haven't had any issues. Eventually will need a new seal, but don't they all?

Ben

 

[swestoyz]

Interior shot - notice the lack of the foot pedal due to the earlier strike and latch mechanisms used because of the compression style gasket on this one-off model.

 

[rp2813]

Thanks for the info guys. So there is no outward indication of a given fridge being a latchless model if I came across a photo in an ad? Might the badge design be a little different from an older model?

Also, how often do these need to be defrosted? The freezer won't be accessed on a regular basis as it will house odds & ends along with overflow from the main fridge.

 

[swestoyz]

The picture below is the cover of the '51 GE owner's manual. If it has the pedal and the handles like that on the cover - it is a mag seal unit. If any combo unit has handles like mine (pull style), it is the strike and latch style (1948 to 1951). Anything after this would have the mag seal.

I have yet to use the freezer, and defrosted after 3 months just for fun. I'm not one to let the ice grow, but I would say that 3 months is probably about right for regular usage.

 

[goatfarmer]

Here's one on the local C/L

http://southbend.craigslist.org/for/1184083516.html

 

[rp2813]

OK, I'm seeing some differences in badges as well, but will watch for the other style of handle. I can't be too particular since these things don't seem to be surfacing much in my neck of the woods, so may end up with a latching type. If they're still opening doors after this many decades, I shouldn't worry about failure. I was spooked on latches by the poorly designed system on my parents' '49 Westinghouse, which had wrenched itself off by the mid 70's.

I'm checking out Hotpoint as well. Any reason to stick with GE only?

 

[rp2813]

Also, where is the best place to look for one of these on line? SF Bay Area Craigs List isn't returning anything but modern stuff, although I do realize I've just started my search and these things don't show up every day. Google takes me to the vintage appliance sites that think I want to pay $3,500.00 for one. Not even any hits for ebay. Should I be using key words other than "GE" "refrigerator" "vintage" etc.?

I need to find this locally so I can use my pick-up for transporting it. I'm not so bent on having one that I will go to the trouble and extra expense of have it shipped. It could take some time before I locate one but I want to be sure I'm looking in the right places on line.

 

[everythingold]

All good things to those who wait

Great fridges, I have one, just keep looking and one will find its way to you. They often have a tap right on them, if a charge is needed. And no, nothing wrong with Hotpoints, some are gorgeous fridges. matt

 

[rp2813]

Thanks guys. I know locating one of these could be a long process. I really like the old Whirly I have in the spot where the GE would go, but there are certain characteristics about it (energy consumption being one) that have me wanting to replace it. And my partner seems to be buying into my theory for a vintage fridge instead, so I need to strike while the iron is hot.