Whirlpool R-106, Training Manual

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6
After Three Seconds
(Second Revolution)
Just as before, the cam continues its rotation and the hold switch contacts transfer to
the normally open position. The feeler arm begins to raise. The shut-off switch con-
tacts transfer and the ejector blades resume their sweep.
If the bucket is full, the feeler arm will come to rest on top of the ice and prevent the
shut–off switch from resetting. This will keep the icemaker from producing any more
ice until the customer removes some of the ice from the bucket.
Thermostat Opens
Some time during the second revolution, the mold warms enough to open the ther-
mostat and the heater is taken out of the circuit. The motor continues to get its power
through the normally open contacts of the hold switch.
Water Switch Closes
Just before the cam returns to the home position, the water switch is closed for the
second time. This time, the thermostat is open, eliminating the shunt to the water
valve. The water valve is energized for about 7 seconds. Current path for the valve is
from L1, through the heater and water switch.
Back to the Freeze Cycle
Once the motor advances the cam back to its home position, the hold and shut-off
switches transfer back to their normal positions and the icemaker is now ready for the
next freeze cycle. Once the mold gets down to temperature, the icemaker thermostat
closes and the ice harvest cycle repeats.
Water Fill Adjustment
Many of compact icemakers used today are equipped with a water fill adjustment.
Turning the fill adjustment screw changes the alignment between the cam and switch
and alters the amount of time the fill switch is energized. One full turn of the screw in
either direction changes the fill ±20 cc’s (approximate).
Manual Cycle Initiation
As we learned, the icemaker ejection cycle is initiated by the thermostat. If, however,
the icemaker is not ejecting, it will be necessary to manually initiate an ice ejection
cycle.
After removing the front cover, turn the motor shaft (small gear) ½ turn in the counter-
clockwise direction. This will rotate the cam enough to transfer the hold switch and
provide power to the motor. If the thermostat is closed at this time, the heater will
likewise be energized and the icemaker will complete the cycle.
After manual initiation, carefully feel the bottom of the mold. It should begin to heat. If
it doesn’t, either the thermostat has not yet closed or the heater is open.
Before manually initiating a cycle, check the position of the ejector arm. Assuming
the problem is in the icemaker, the position of the ejector arm will give you an indica-
tion of the failed component.
If the ejector blades are still in the home position (9 o’clock) the thermostat is most
likely at fault.
If the ejector blades stopped between the 9 and 10 o’clock positions, the hold switch
is most likely at fault.
An ejector at the 4 o’clock position normally indicates an open heater.
Any position other than the 9 or 4 o’clock positions may indicate motor problems or
broken, stripped or missing parts in the housing.