SUPCO Icemakers

[danemodsandy]

I'm hoping some of the techs among us will have some knowledge here:

As I start trying to locate a fridge, it occurs to me that having an icemaker again would be a very nice thing. It has been four years since I had one, and I have really never made my peace with returning to filling trays myself.

As I've been researching, I have found that SUPCO makes retrofit, replacement and "universal" icemakers; they're very much along the lines of the Servel/Whirlpool units we're all familiar with.

But I am finding some limitations with even the "universal" models - a water valve and a wiring harness must be in place.

Does anyone have any opinions on these icemakers?

And does anyone know if '70s and early '80s Amana top-freezer models were already set up for icemakers with the water valve and harness?

Last, does anyone know of strategies to use if a particular fridge has no valve or harness?

Info and opinions would be gratefully appreciated.

 

[danemodsandy]

I Think....

....I've answered one of my own questions.

I have found a 1976 Amana ad mentioning an icemaker "that you can add now or later at extra cost."

For a long time, that has meant that a fridge has the valve and wiring already in place. Obviously, some experience looking at fridges that CL sellers are offering will tell me more.

But it's a good sign, I think.

 

[goatfarmer]

Not necessarily. Often, the "add it later" kit includes a wiring harness, that runs up the back. The late 70's Frigidaires were that way, spent a lot of time installing IMK kits.

 

[danemodsandy]

Kenny:

Thanks for the caution.

Obviously, I'll need to look at fridges under consideration to see what's there. I highly doubt I would find one with an original, functioning icemaker after all these years.

 

[goatfarmer]

maybe?

pics soon. Cedar Rapids C/L

 

 

http://cedarrapids.craigslist.org/app/3987085938.html

 

[combo52]

1970s Amana Refs with IMs

Hi Sandy, the type of Amana ref you are looking for all came per wired for an automatic IM, Amana wisely used WP manufactured IMs along with 9 out of 12 refrigerator brands during the late 1960s through the 1970s. Having a working [ even original ] working IM in the Amana of your dreams will likely be the least of your problems with an Amana top freezer refrigerator from the 1970s. Whether it has an IM when you get the ref or one has to be installed they are very plentiful and I would diffidently not try to use an after-market IM when WP is still building a direct fitting IM. If you get the ref and need an IM contact me, we have shelves full of IMs that will plug into this refrigerator.  Good Luck , John L.

 

PS  it is best to install a new water inlet valve if you either add an IM or if the ref already has one with a 30 year + old valve.

 

[danemodsandy]

Hi John:

Once a suitable Amana has been located and put in place, rest assured I'll be looking to you for parts and advice.

In the meantime, thanks for the reassurance that the icemaker situation is simpler than I thought it was. I'm very familiar with the quality and reliability of the Servel design that Whirlpool still produces, and I'll be happy to have one again.