Vintage (1964) Coldspot Fridge Death

[carmine]

Long story short, low voltage at my house (85v +/-) left my grandmother's fridge doing nothing but blowing hot air. Luckily it didn't kill my Frigidaire.

I'd like to get it working for both sentimental and practical reasons (need to take the Frigidaire down for its annual "cannot deal with high humidity" problem). Is this practical? Could I swap the compressor out of some ugly modern junk? Is that even the problem? If it's an R-12 unit, can I refill the new compressor with 134a and synthetic oil like an automotive a/c retrofit?

My other option would be to offer this unit, + the matching gas stove, + the matching (huge) upright freezer to a good home, perhaps for an interesting trade? Mainly I'd want to see it with a good owner. Pics below.

 

[carmine]

2

 

[carmine]

3

 

[goatfarmer]

You can retrofit a newer compressor, and refrigerant into that unit. But unless you do the work yourself, it will be very expensive.

 

[carmine]

Ok, I am willing to do the work. I'm an ASE certified mechanic with auto A/C tools and home/auto electrical knowledge. I sweat copper pipes with ease. I've looked at (what I'd consider) donor candidates on Craigslist.

So has anyone here done this and created a thread? Do newer fridges use 134a? Any compressor/model suggestions?

 

[a440]

Such a beautiful Coldspot!  It is in great shape.