Need help finding the correct thermostat for a Kenmore 106.7659311 refrigerator

[BillK]

Hi guys,

  We have a Kenmore fridge from about 1974 that we bought new.  Lately the thermostat has been "sticking" and you have to tap on it to get it to start cooling again.  I am having a heck of a time finding the correct replacement.  

The part number in the original Sears manual is 850955

The part number on the actual thermostat is 850956 and there is also another number 3ART5VK65  which appears to be a Robertshaw number

All of the normal parts sources cross this number to a Whirlpool 819470.   This thermostat is not correct for a couple of reasons.  The capillary tube is way too long.  The original one is only about 12 inches long.  Also the knob position would not be correct to match up with the numbers on the fridge but that really would not matter. 

I found one place that shows the 850956 but it is out of stock. 

I have attached a couple of pictures of the original thermostat. 

I suppose i could use the 819470 but I am not sure what to do with the excess length capillary tube.  I dont think there is enough room to loop it around  few times behind the cover.  Is this acceptable if it is my only choice ?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated  !!!

 

[Vance R]

5 hours ago, BillK said:

Is this acceptable if it is my only choice ?

Yes, just carefully loop around to take up the extra length. Make sure the tubing won't rub on anything. 

[BillK]

Vance,

  Thank you.  I does not look good for finding an original with the short tube so I guess the replacement will have to work.  Ill post the results when I get it done in a couple of days

[BillK]

Hey guys.  I went ahead and used the thermostat with the longer tube.  Managed to get it wrapped all behind the plastic cover in the fridge and it seems to be working fine for the last 2 days    Thanks for the help.