How To Replace GE Refrigerator Pan Slide Rails WR49X10144

Struggling with a stubborn GE refrigerator drawer that just won’t slide out smoothly? The culprit is likely the worn-out or damaged slide rails, but don’t worry—this common issue is easier to fix than you might think. Dive into our easy step-by-step guide, complete with a how-to video, and get back to easy-access groceries in no time!

Looking for the right part? Enter your appliance model number below to find the exact match and get your appliance running like new again!

Is your GE refrigerator’s Custom Cool pan giving you trouble sliding in and out? Chances are the slide rails (part #WR49X10144) are worn out or damaged. These rails are what let the drawer glide smoothly—and when they’re not working right, it can make accessing your food a real pain. The good news? Replacing them is easier than you might think. In this guide, we’ll show you how to replace the Custom Cool pan slide rails step-by-step so you can get your fridge drawer back on track in no time.

Watch the repair here: How to install customer cool pan slide rails

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

What you’ll need

• New WR49X10144 custom cool pan slide rail kit (Take your model number to AppliancePartsPros.com to make sure this is the correct part for your unit)
• Torx T20 screwdriver

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind: 

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of injury from electric shock.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts, pinching hazards and debris.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access the interior parts.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with bare wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check your user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions for your part or appliance. 
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause injury.
• Wear safety glasses when working with chemicals, dust or cleaning large debris to prevent injury. 
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time for any heating parts to cool down before working on it. 
• Take pictures or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting to prevent any problems with reassembly.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Turn off the water supply at the outlet before beginning repairs to any appliance parts that hold water. Have towels ready for any residual water in the system when removing parts. 

Step 1: Remove the custom cool pan

1. Fully open the refrigerator door to expose the interior compartment.
2. Locate the custom cool pan at the bottom of the refrigerator.
3. Firmly grasp the handles and pull the pan straight outward. Continue pulling until it stops. This unlocks the tabs securing it on both sides.
4. Lift up on the pan to disengage the tabs and remove it completely from the refrigerator.
5. Set the empty pan aside on a protected surface.

Step 2: Detach the old slide rails

1. Examine the rails to locate the Torx screws. There will be two securing each rail to the refrigerator liner walls.
2. Insert your T20 screwdriver into the screw heads and turn counterclockwise to loosen completely. Remove both screws from each rail.
3. Grasp the rail firmly by the sides and pull directly outward to detach from the built-in plastic locking tabs behind it. Remove both damaged left and right slide rails.

Step 3: Install the new slide rails

1. Locate the replacement left and right slide rails in the kit, identified by a “L” and “R.” Confirm they include the white nylon spacers taped onto the outer sides. If not, remove and transfer spacers from old rails.
2. Position the left rail in place, aligning the holes. Make sure the spacers face outward and the locking tabs on top.
3. Insert screws and tighten with your T20 driver to secure that side. Repeat to install the right slide rail.
4. Give both rails a firm pull test to verify proper installation before continuing.

Step 4: Replace the custom cool pan

1. Examine the new slide rails and verify the locking tabs point outward on both sides, positioned to accept the pan.
2. Carefully lower the pan directly over the tabs. You may need to press down firmly to engage them properly.
3. Push the pan inward while simultaneously rotating the side locking tabs to lock it into position.
4. Slowly open and close the pan several times, making sure it glides smoothly on the fresh rails.

More Information

Thanks for reading! We hope this article helped you replace the custom cool pan slide rails in your GE refrigerator.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to see our latest repair guides!