Ice Maker Needs A Smack To Work??

[Jimmy Buoy]

My "U-line SP18" icemaker is under the helm chair. There have been times when I've raised the engine hatch (the entire helm area opens like a clam shell) and forgotten to turn off the ice maker. If it tried to cycle on the compressor would rattle around due to the angle with the hatch raised. I would turn it off ASAP since it didn't sound too pleasant.:smt009

Now it seems that when I turn on the switch on the bottom of the unit it often does nothing. So I did what I normally do in those situations - I gave it a quick smack... and it starts up and runs just fine. :huh:

Sometimes though, I notice that it has not cycled back on again and any ice made is melted (it's only an AC model). It needs another rap to start.:huh:

Any ideas what might be wrong?? Lose wire?? Corroded contact?? Or is it just on it's way out?:wow:

 

[Jimmy Buoy]

Update - After a frustrating summer of having plenty of ice when you don't need it vs. no ice when you have a bunch of friends wanting "blender" drinks, I think I've finally solved the issue! :thumbsup:

The thermostat's contacts (kind of like auto ignition points) were quite carboned up. May have been made worse from a weekend stay at a dock with low voltage issues. They close when the temp's rise, providing power to the compressor/fan, but not if the contacts are covered in black carbon.

I diagnosed it by being patient enough for the unit to screw up (not power on) while out of it's cubby (had to leave it for 24hrs). Then I carefully wiggled various wires/connections without success. Finally I took a screwdriver and lightly tapped the thermostat's side and the compressor/fan quickly started.

Cleaned the points with emery cloth and so far, it hasn't missed a beat!

Margaritas anyone??? :grin:

 

[sr330daguy]

Thanks for posting the solution.

 

[fc3]

I had an employee like that, once.

 

[sr330daguy]

I had an employee like that, once.

Beautiful! LMFAO!