How to Remove the Wheel Assembly From a GE Fridge
A refrigerator is one of the heaviest appliances the General Electric brand sells, yet it has to be moved often for maintenance. The company has tried to make it easier for owners by adding a small set of wheels on the back of the unit. If there’s a problem with the wheel assembly, you'll need to remove the wheels and replace them with new ones. The process can vary depending on the GE refrigerator model you own, but it’s generally something you can do with just a few minutes of your free time.
Purpose
Most GE refrigerator owners don’t realize their appliance has a set of wheels. These wheels make it easier to pull the refrigerator out for the periodic cleaning that the owner's manual recommends as part of the maintenance of the unit. The wheels also play a part in the leveling of the appliance, which affects whether the doors close properly.
Leveling
Before you remove the wheels on your GE refrigerator, make sure that it’s not an issue that can be fixed by leveling the unit: Remove the grille of your refrigerator. Depending on the model, you can either pop the grille off or you may need to remove some screws. Use a socket wrench or pliers to adjust the level of the unit. In a best-case scenario, the front of your unit should be about a quarter of an inch higher than the back of it.
Before the Removal
If the issue can't be fixed by leveling, prepare for the removal of the wheels. First check the warranty status of your unit. If you still have a warranty on it, you have to allow an authorized repair technician to make the removal. Contact GE (1-800-626-2224) for a repair tech in your area. If you’re going to continue, remove any breakable items from the refrigerator and tape the door shut to prevent spillage. Finally, unplug the unit for safety reasons. You can plug it back in when you’re done.
The Removal
Tilt the GE refrigerator slightly forward to access the rail that the wheels are attached to. Use a stand, a pulley system or a helper to rest the refrigerator. Remove any screws holding the rail in place, then lower the rail from the unit. Remove the pin that holds each wheel in place. At this point, ideally you’ll install a new set of wheels; if you don’t, your refrigerator won’t level correctly anymore.
References
Writer Bio
Michaele Curtis began writing professionally in 2001. As a freelance writer for the Centers for Disease Control, Nationwide Insurance and AT&T Interactive, her work has appeared in "Insurance Today," "Mobiles and PDAs" and "Curve Magazine." Curtis holds a Bachelor of Arts in communication from Louisiana State University.
Photo Credits
- Ryan McVay/Photodisc/Getty Images
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