Maytag Fridge Temp Inconsistent. Model MTF2142ME500

[Steve M]

The Compressor works. The fridge gets too cold at lowest setting, as expected. But when I bump the temp control up just a little, fridge gets too warm. Freezer is same way.  No in between. Fridge varies between 28F at coldest setting, and approx 50F when control is moved only a little.  Cleaned all the coils, the fan by the compressor works. Door seals are good. The problem came on suddenly.

Fridge is approximately 10 yrs old, but in great shape. I’m not an appliance repairman, but I’ve worked in electronics repair, and handy with tools. My obvious guess is to replace the thermostat control assembly, but looking for advice before I dig in and waste time and money.

 

Thanks!

[Budget Appliance Repair]

Every thing you have written and observed point to bad contacts in the cold control/T-Stat or control has lost the pressure in it's capillary sensor tube.

 

[Steve M]

From what you say, it appears as though this is the part to replace:

Cold Control WP2200859 / AP6006464

https://www.appliancepartspros.com/whirlpool-thermostat-weight-assy-wp2200859-ap6006464.html

Which shows, at least on the above website, as ‘part no longer available’. Before I try tracking this part down elsewhere, am I barking up the right tree, in your opinion?

[Steve M]

I found part #2200859 “Refrigerator Thermostat Control” on Amazon. Since it was only $19.99, it wasn’t much of a gamble, so I went ahead and ordered the part. Should have it Wednesday. Fingers crossed, and thanks for the help, Willie!

Much appreciated,

Steve

[Steve M]

I replaced the cold control/thermostat assembly as suggested, and the fridge and freezer are now at the correct temps, however…

Now the compressor cycles on and off what I believe is far too frequently. If we get something out of the fridge, the compressor turns on for about 10 seconds then off for about 10 seconds. This cycling back and forth goes on for several minutes to bring things to the proper temp before it seems to settle in.

It never did this before. I’m guessing I got a bad part? It was easy enough to replace if I need to do it again.