GE PFE29PSDASS Compressor Line Leak / Break

[TomDoe]

Hi Everybody,

I have a GE PFE29PSDASS fridge that was not cooling and it appeared like the inverter board is at fault - getting correct signals from main board and compressor with continuity across all pins. In my man-handling attempt to get the inverter board out of the crammed space, I managed to bend the compressor line (service port ?) just enough that the line broke. I am just handy enough to order a new board and replace it, but what is the recommended course of action to get the compressor line fixed and the compressor recharged. I have limited experience with this and am not sure of my next steps now. Can I simply solder this shut and do I then need to find a way to pull a vacuum on the compressor / refrigeration system and/or how to proceed from there. I replaced a car AC compressor many moons ago and remember needing to go through those steps at the time, but have no idea if its the same here of different.

Much appreciate the support!

Tom

[vee8power]

Bummer! You will need a new filter drier and new refrigerant measured in. It will be easier to call a pro.

[WOOKIE]

Question. Is it a service port , discharge line or, suction line?.  Did you loose a lot of oil ?  If it is the service port , I personally would BRAZE in a service valve, replace the filter drier as @vee8power suggested, pull a good micron level vacuum the weigh in the charge.  Then you can run diagnostic test to see if the compressor is performing properly.  If you cannot do ANY of those task . Call in a professional.  Depending on the age of the unit and what they want to charge for the repair, it might be cheaper to scrap it and purchase a new one. 

[TomDoe]

All - thanks for your help.

While it is only the service port and I am sure it could be repaired rather easily, but as I have neither a vacuum pump on hand nor the equipment to then recharge and as the unit is 11 years old and a local professional is going to look at $700+ for all of the above and the inverter board, I think a new one it is. 

Again - thank you!