Icemaker Operation

MODULAR ICEMAKER

All Integrated (700-2) Series units utilize a "modular icemaker". The icemaker operation is not complex; however, an understanding of its cycle of operation is necessary for a serviceman to make a proper diagnosis.

Modular Icemaker Operation

When the icemaker thermostat senses temperatures of 17°F, the thermostat closes. Current then flows through the thermostat to the motor, which is linked with the drive gear. Copper contacts on the module ride on copper strips on the backside of the drive gear. As the drive gear rotates, these contacts make or break a circuit to the copper strips, generating the icemaker cycle.

Diagram Description (Figure 6-1): A schematic shows the electrical connections for the modular icemaker. Key components include the water valve, thermostat, shut-off switch, timer motor, and various contacts (A, B, C, D) connected to a drive gear. Power is supplied via 115V AC.

Contact Descriptions:

• Contact C: Holding Switch
• Contact D: Timer
• Contact A: Water Valve
• Contact B: Heater/Thermostat

Additional Icemaker Operation Notes

• NOTE 1: The ICE ON/OFF key activates the icemaker. If "ICE" is not displayed on the LCD, the system is OFF.
• NOTE 2: To ensure full freezing and reduce low water pressure effects, the electronic control system disables the icemaker for 45 minutes after each ice harvest (except for the 700BFI-2). To bypass this, turn the ice making system OFF and then back ON using the ICE key.
• NOTE 3: The ice bucket must be in place to activate a switch for ice production.
• NOTE 4: The icemaker shut-off arm must be in the "down / on" position for operation.
• NOTE 5: The icemaker relay controls the fill tube heater and water valve.

What Happens During Ejector Blade Rotation

Diagram Description (Figure 6-2): This diagram illustrates the ejector blade's rotation from the front or module side of the icemaker, aiding in diagnosing problems. It details key events during rotation:

• Start Position: Thermostat Closes, Motor On, Heater On.
• Water Valve Energized (approx. 11:00 o'clock): 7.5 Seconds, 140cc or 4-3/4oz fill.
• Thermistor Opens (approx. 6:00 o'clock reference): Heater Off.
• Ejector Blade Stalls on Ice (approx. 4:00 o'clock): Motor On, Heater On (1/2 Minute to 5 Minutes).
• Ejector Blade Stop Position (approx. 1:30 o'clock).

MODULAR ICEMAKER TEST PROCEDURES

Perform the following tests if the icemaker is suspected to be defective. Refer to Figure 6-3 for test port locations. Tests 1-5 require 115 Volts AC. Read the WARNING and additional Ice Production Notes before proceeding.

A WARNING: ELECTRIC SHOCK HAZARD! TESTS 1 THROUGH 5 ARE PERFORMED WITH 115V AC SUPPLIED TO THE ICEMAKER. CARE MUST BE TAKEN TO AVOID SEVERE PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.

Voltage Tests

1. Check for 115 Volts AC between ports "L" and "N". Use test ports 1/2".
2. Create a jumper/test wire by stripping 1/2" insulation from each end of a 3" piece of 14 gauge wire. Insert into ports "T" and "H" to bypass the thermostat. Note: Do not use other ports, as this will damage the icemaker. If the motor does not run, replace the module/motor assembly.
3. Leave the jumper/test wire in until ejector blades reach approximately 8:00 o'clock. The mold heater should heat up. If not, proceed to test 5.
4. Remove the jumper/test wire when ejector blades reach 8:00 o'clock. The water valve should energize for 7.5 seconds when blades reach approximately 11:00 o'clock. If not, repeat tests 2-4 and check for 115V AC to the solenoid at 11:00 o'clock. If no voltage, check connections.

Continuity Tests and Thermostat Inspection

1. With the icemaker removed, check mold heater resistance between ports "L" and "H". Resistance should be 62 - 82 Ohms. Replace mold/heater assembly if outside this range.
2. With the module/motor separated, check motor resistance between ports "L" and "M". Resistance should be 3390 - 4410 Ohms. Replace module/motor assembly if outside this range.
3. If icemaker passes tests 1-6, check for adequate Thermal-Mastic on the icemaker thermostat. If low, apply more. If sufficient, replace the thermostat.
4. See the General Troubleshooting Guide if the icemaker passes tests 1-7.

Diagram Description (Figure 6-3): This diagram shows the test ports on the icemaker and their corresponding functions: H-T (Thermostat), L-H (Heater), L-M (Motor), L-N (115V AC), V-N (Valve).

Note: Never turn the icemaker ejector blades by hand, as this will cause damage.

WATER FILL ADJUSTMENT

The water valve should energize for approximately 7.5 seconds, supplying 140cc (4.75oz) of water. If the fill amount is incorrect, adjust using the water fill adjustment screw (See Figure 6-4).

• Turn screw counterclockwise to increase fill amount.
• Turn screw clockwise to decrease fill amount.
• A 360° turn adjusts fill by 40cc; a 180° turn adjusts by 20cc.

Diagram Description (Figure 6-4): Shows the water fill adjustment screw on the icemaker.

ICEMAKER DISASSEMBLY

Module/Motor Assembly Removal

Remove the cover and shut-off arm. Extract the module/motor assembly mounting screws and pull the module from the support (See Figure 6-5).

Mold/Heater Assembly Removal

Remove the cover and shut-off arm. Insert a Phillips head screwdriver into the access holes and extract the screws. Pull the mold/heater assembly from the support (See Figure 6-5).

Ejector Blades and/or Ice Stripper Removal

Remove the cover and shut-off arm, and disconnect the mold/heater assembly from the support (See Figure 6-5). Pull the ejector blades and/or ice stripper from the mold.

Icemaker Thermostat Removal

Remove the cover and shut-off arm, and disconnect the mold/heater assembly from the support (See Figure 6-5). Use needle-nose pliers to grasp a retaining clip and pull out (See Figure 6-6).

Diagram Description (Figure 6-5): Illustrates component removal, showing module/motor assembly mounting screws, mold attachment screw access holes, and the shut-off arm.

Diagram Description (Figure 6-6): Shows the thermostat retaining clips.