How to Replace a Door Closure | LG/Kenmore Refrigerators

Introduction

A refrigerator that fails to close properly can lead to a host of problems, from increased energy bills due to loss of cold air to ruining food that spoils at higher temperatures. Often, the culprit behind a refrigerator door that won’t close is a faulty door closure mechanism. The door closure is responsible for pulling the door shut and sealing it tightly. When this component becomes damaged or worn out, therefore, the door can fail to fully close. Subsequently, cool air leaks out causing the refrigerator to run longer to maintain the set temperature. Moreover, ambient air can leak in leading to fluctuation in temperature.

However, the good news is that replacing a broken refrigerator door closure is an easy and inexpensive do-it-yourself repair. For example, with just a few tools and a replacement part, homeowners can have their LG or Kenmore refrigerator door working properly again in no time. This repair guide will walk through the necessary steps to replace the door closure on an LG or Kenmore refrigerator.

Materials Needed

Before starting this repair project, you will need to gather the appropriate replacement part and tools required to change out the refrigerator door closure. Having these materials ready will make the repair process go quicker and smoother.

• Replacement Door Closure: The specific part number needed is MJB62830601. This part is made for LG and Kenmore brand refrigerators. Be sure to purchase the correct part number for your refrigerator’s make and model.
• Phillips Head Screwdriver: A medium Phillips head screwdriver is required to remove the screw that holds the door closure in place. Any average screwdriver that fits the closure screw should work.
• Safety Gear (optional): Safety glasses and gloves can provide extra protection when working on appliances. These are recommended but not mandatory for this repair.

Ensuring you have the new LG/Kenmore door closure part and a Phillips head screwdriver on hand will allow you to successfully tackle this refrigerator repair project. Refer to your model’s manual if unsure of the correct part number needed. Now you’re ready to get started replacing that faulty door closure!

Safety Precautions

When servicing any appliance, safety should always come first. Follow these precautions before starting the refrigerator door closure replacement process:

• Unplug the Refrigerator: Unplug the refrigerator from the electrical outlet or shut off the breaker supplying power to it. This prevents accidental electrocution while working on the appliance.
• Use Caution: Refrigerator repairs involve both electrical and mechanical hazards. Use extreme care when handling parts and tools around the heavy appliance.
• Protect Against Falls: The refrigerator door will be open for this repair. Be aware of tripping hazards and use cones or barricades if needed.

Taking basic safety measures protects both you and the appliance when tackling do-it-yourself refrigerator repairs. Always put safety first by unplugging power and working cautiously. Now you can move on to the door closure replacement confidently.

Removing the Old Door Closure

With the refrigerator powered off, you can begin removing the damaged door closure. Follow these steps:

• Open the refrigerator door fully to access the door closure mechanism.
• Locate the door closure on the bottom of the right refrigerator door near the lower hinge.
• Using the Phillips head screwdriver, remove the screw that secures the plastic door closure bracket and closure pin in place.
• Carefully maneuver the door closure out from the bracket and set it aside. You may need to wiggle it free from the hinge pin.
• Inspect the door hinge and surrounding area. Look for any cracks, loose parts, or damage.
• Clean out any debris or dust buildup on the hinge, pin, and closure bracket.

Take care not to lose any small parts or hardware when removing the old refrigerator door closure. Properly disposing of the broken closure concludes this stage of the repair. Now the refrigerator is ready for the new door closure installation.

Installing the New Closure

With the old door closure removed, it’s time to install the new replacement part. Follow these steps:

• Align the new door closure with the hinge pin and mounting bracket in the same position as the old one.
• The curved part of the closure should fit over the hinge pin.
• Insert the end of the closure into the plastic mounting bracket on the door.
• Push the closure in fully so it sits flush in the bracket.
• Replace the Philips screw through the bracket and into the door closure to secure it in place. Tighten firmly but do not overtighten.
• Check that the door closure can move freely back and forth on the hinge pin without friction.
• Open and close the refrigerator door several times to ensure proper alignment and operation.

Installing the replacement door closure is simple if you follow the steps above. Take care to mount the new part exactly like the original for proper functioning. Minor adjustments can be made if needed to the closure position.

Completing the Repair

Once the new refrigerator door closure is successfully installed, finish up the repair by:

• Closing the refrigerator door and ensuring it latches properly.
• Plugging the refrigerator power cord back into the electrical outlet or turning the breaker back on.
• Allowing the refrigerator to run for 15-20 minutes to ensure it is cooling properly.
• Checking that the door gasket seal is intact all the way around the door.
• Wiping down the refrigerator surfaces to remove any dirt or debris from the repair.
• Confirming the door opens and closes smoothly without issue.
• Disposing of the old door closure properly.
• Returning any tools or spare parts to their storage locations.

Completing these final steps concludes the door closure replacement repair. The refrigerator can now be used normally again. If any problems persist, double-check the closure installation and alignment before referring to the unit’s troubleshooting guide. With the new part installed, the refrigerator door should close consistently and properly once more.

Conclusion

Replacing a worn-out refrigerator door closure can seem intimidating at first. However, as this guide has demonstrated, it is a straightforward do-it-yourself repair that can be accomplished in just a few steps. With the proper replacement part and tools on hand, homeowners can tackle this repair project themselves. Subsequently, by following the instructions to remove the old closure and install the new one, your refrigerator door will once again close and seal properly.

For more appliance repair tips and troubleshooting guides, be sure to check out AppliancePartsPros.com. We have extensive resources on DIY fixes for dryers, refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, ranges, and more. Our website, Facebook page, and YouTube channel provide useful articles, videos, part schematics, and other materials to help you troubleshoot and repair your appliances.