Kenmore Coldspot Model 106 Service Manual

The Kenmore Coldspot Model 106 is a classic top-freezer refrigerator known for its durability and simple mechanical controls. This service manual provides comprehensive information for technicians and qualified individuals on safety procedures, technical specifications, component identification, installation, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair procedures for this model. Below are key sections covering all aspects of service.

1. Safety Precautions 2. Model Identification & Specifications 3. Installation Instructions 4. Component Overview & Operation 5. Electrical System & Wiring Diagram 6. Refrigeration System 7. Disassembly & Reassembly Procedures 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Troubleshooting Guide 10. Parts List & Exploded Views

Safety Precautions

Before attempting any service, review these critical safety warnings to prevent injury, electric shock, or damage to the unit.

Hazard	Precaution
Electrical Shock	ALWAYS disconnect power at the outlet before servicing. Verify power is off with a voltmeter.
Refrigerant	Use proper recovery equipment. Do not vent R-12 refrigerant to atmosphere. Wear safety glasses and gloves.
Sharp Edges	Wear cut-resistant gloves when handling evaporator coils, sheet metal, or tubing.
Heavy Components	Use a helper or proper lifting equipment when moving the unit or handling the compressor.
Fire/Explosion	No open flames near refrigerant. Ensure area is well-ventilated when brazing.

WARNING! This manual is for qualified service personnel only. Incorrect repair can create additional hazards.

Model Identification & Specifications

Locate the model and serial number plate, typically inside the fresh food compartment or on the rear of the cabinet.

Model Series: Coldspot 106.xxxxx
Refrigerant Type: R-12
Charge Amount: Refer to data plate (typically 4-6 oz).
Electrical: 115 VAC, 60 Hz, 5-7 Amps.
Dimensions (HxWxD): Approximately 60" x 28" x 30"
Capacity: ~14.6 cu. ft. total (10.1 cu. ft. fresh food, 4.5 cu. ft. freezer).
Defrost System: Manual defrost (freezer compartment).
Thermostat: Cold Control, mechanical type.

Installation Instructions

Proper installation is critical for performance and safety.

Location: Place on a level, solid floor. Allow minimum clearances: 2" sides, 2" rear, top free.
Leveling: Adjust front leveling legs to ensure door closes and seals properly.
Electrical: Plug into a dedicated 115V, 15A grounded outlet. Do not use an extension cord.
Initial Start-up: Allow unit to stand upright for 4 hours after transport before plugging in. Set thermostat to mid-position.

CAUTION! Improper leveling can cause door alignment issues and cooling problems.

Component Overview & Operation

Key components and their function.

User Controls: Cold Control knob (thermostat) inside fresh food compartment. Freezer is non-adjustable separately.

Mechanical System: Hermetic compressor (typically 1/4 HP), condenser coil (rear), evaporator coil (freezer), capillary tube metering device, accumulator.

Operation Cycle: Thermostat calls for cooling, energizing compressor and condenser fan. Refrigerant circulates, absorbing heat from interior. Cycle ends when set temperature is reached.

Electrical System & Wiring Diagram

The electrical system is simple, with components in series with the thermostat.

Disconnect power.
Access wiring diagram located on rear panel or inside compressor compartment.
Key components in series: Power Cord -> Thermostat -> Compressor -> Overload Protector (internal to compressor).
Light Circuit: Separate circuit with door switch and interior light.

Tip: Use a multimeter to check for continuity through the thermostat when the knob is turned to the coldest setting.

Refrigeration System

Sealed system using R-12 refrigerant. Service requires EPA certification.

Evacuation & Charging: Use manifold gauges. System must be evacuated to 500 microns or less before charging with virgin or reclaimed R-12.
Leak Testing: Use electronic leak detector or bubble solution on all joints, especially the evaporator connections and compressor seals.
Component Replacement: Use filter-drier whenever system is opened. Sweat connections using nitrogen purge to prevent oxidation.

WARNING! Do not substitute refrigerant types. R-12 requires specific oil (Mineral Oil). Incompatible refrigerants will damage the system.

Disassembly & Reassembly Procedures

Step-by-step guides for common component access.

Component	Access Procedure
Door Gasket	Remove retainer screws from inside door liner. Carefully peel gasket out of channel.
Thermostat	Remove control knob. Remove mounting nut behind panel. Pull thermostat out, disconnect wires.
Condenser Fan Motor	Remove rear service panel. Unclip fan shroud. Disconnect wires, remove mounting screws.
Compressor	Recover refrigerant. Cut process tubes. Unbolt mounting springs. Slight cabinet tilt may be required for removal.

Note: Label all wires and take photos during disassembly to aid reassembly.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Regular maintenance ensures efficiency and longevity.

Condenser Coils: Vacuum dust and lint from rear coils every 6 months.
Interior: Clean with solution of baking soda and warm water. Rinse and dry.
Door Gaskets: Wipe clean with mild soapy water. Check seal integrity by closing door on a dollar bill; it should hold firmly when pulled.
Defrosting: Manually defrost freezer when frost buildup exceeds 1/4 inch. Unplug unit, place towels, allow frost to melt.

CAUTION! Do not use sharp objects to remove frost. Never use harsh chemicals or abrasives.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Unit does not run	No power, bad thermostat, compressor overload tripped	Check outlet, test thermostat continuity, allow compressor to cool and reset.
Runs but does not cool	Dirty condenser, low refrigerant, sealed system restriction	Clean coils, check for leaks/charge, assess system pressures.
Runs continuously	Faulty thermostat, dirty condenser, door left ajar, poor door seal	Test/bypass thermostat, clean coils, check gasket, ensure door closes fully.
Excessive frost in freezer	Frequent door openings, damaged door gasket, manual defrost needed	Inspect/replace gasket, educate user, perform manual defrost.
Unusual noise	Loose fan blade, compressor mounts loose, unit not level	Inspect fan and shroud, tighten compressor mounts, re-level unit.

Parts List & Exploded Views

Reference diagrams for part numbers and assembly relationships. Common replacement parts include:

Door Gasket: Part # WR9X100 (Example - verify with model)
Cold Control Thermostat: Part # WPW10104984
Condenser Fan Motor: Part # 5303918544
Light Switch: Part # 5304449066
Compressor: (Various, match by HP and terminals) e.g., Tecumseh AE1340Y

Service: For genuine Kenmore parts, contact Sears Parts Direct or authorized service center.