How to Troubleshoot & Replace Frigidaire AP5690408 / 5304491584 Refrigerator Compressor Relay And Overload Kit

Looked for obvious signs of mal-function, burned wires, etc. I found that the compressor controller(attached to the compressor) had an obvious burned-out spot. Took a chance that was the problem (it was); ordered all new OEM parts, including a new timer and run capacitor (a part that kicks in every time the compressor starts). I received the parts at 1 PM EST; by 1:48 PM I had the freezer working. Easily saved $250.00. A nice aside was that an Internet competitor was asking $53.00 for the same compressor controller part that you guys were selling for $12.00. Just a good story all the way around. 

Determined that the compressor start/run switch (controller) was bad. Changed it out and the Capacitor also even though the capacitor tested good. Also ordered an alarm for the freezer to warn if it is getting to warm. Don't want to loose another 1/4 of beef and a pig. 

Bought a controller kit and the run capacitor that went with it. 

GOT ON APPLIANCE PARTS PROS AND BOUGHT THEIR RECOMMENDED RUN CAPACITOR AND CONTROLLER KIT. INSTALLED CAPACITOR AND STILL, WOULDN'T START, SO DISASSEMBLED IT AND LOOKED AT CONTROLLER. IT WAS BURNT ON BOTTOM, INSTALLED NEW ONE WITH INCLUDED WIRE CONNECTORS AND SHRINK TUBES, REASSEMBLED AND TURNED BACK ON. FROZEN ICE JUGS NEXT MORNING. SECOND TIME I'VE USED PARTS AND INSTRUCTIONS FROM APPLIANCE PARTS PROS ON MY 2003 FRIGIDAIRE FREEZER AND IT'S STILL TRUCKING ON. 

Replaced compressor start relay. 

The compressor continuity at each of the 3 poles checked okay, so compressor was fine. Relay that attached to compressor and its capacitor were faulty and replaced. Compressor now turns on and freezer is at -20C. 

Because the door to the fridge was not completely closed properly as soon as it was allowed to freeze, gradually the ice building up around the cooling coils and fan began to obstruct the airflow (creating a loud noise from the fan blade). Originally I assumed the compressor was completely shot and decided to attempt to resolve the issue by replacing the Capacitor (which originally is a 250 Vac, model number 297286803, though the 220 Vac with 12 Microfarad works as well,) along with the Controller Kit, assuming that somehow it was simply the compressor overheating and not getting engaged properly to allow proper cooling. It started humming again, though I was wondering about the fan and coil panel at the bottom inside (which should be the first step before replacing parts). It is also warned the capacitor requires discharging, however I survived it without issue. The only tool needed was a allen screwdriver for the cooling fan (a lot of times I suspect unplugging the freezer allows the fan to become unclogged, which might actually be whats resolving cooling issues.) 

Bought Controler and capacitor, and they fit in perfect. 

Replaced the controller, which was really easy. Two wires to strip and crimp and once I hooked the controller back up we were back in business. 

I checked the capacitor to make sure it was working properly. After it passed, I decided to replace the relay/controller kit. I went to the local appliance parts store for a replacement. I was told it would be 6 to 10 days before they would be able to get one. I ordered one from AppliancePartsPros.com at 11:35am and received it about 24 hours later at 11:30am. Not bad. I was able to cut 2 wires to wire the controller. I plugged the capacitor into the controller. Then I plugged the capacitor and controller into the compressor. I plugged the freezer to the electrical outlet. Problem solved.