How to Troubleshoot & Replace Whirlpool AP6010187 / WP65889-4 Run Capacitor

I opened up the back of the refrigerator to see what was going on and tapped on the compressor to see if it would run and the overload relay sparked telling me there was a problem with the relay. So I went on the internet and found AppliancePartsPros.com, saw it was a trusted site, looked up my model and ordered the overload relay along with a new run capacitor. (I figured it was a better option than just running out to buy a new refrigerator to my wife's dismay). The parts were shipped on Monday, came Fed Ex Tuesday! I connected the parts, plugged in the fridge and it working like new. 

Based on the information provided on web site, and an online chat, able to determine what was the problem. The part came very fast and after reviewing the installation instructions had refrigerator up and running again in minutes. A $ 39 part vs a $1000+ for a new refrigerator. You decide. 

Replaced start relay and capacitor. 

Installed new run capacitor. 

I basically had to guess based on Google searches of the symptoms and the specific model number. The choices were really limited to the thermistor, the run capacitor and compressor start switch. I went with the two parts that were the most commonly replaced; thermistor 55% of the time and run cap at 25%. I doubt it was both pieces that failed, but I didn’t want to waste time troubleshooting one part at a time, so I bought both and it solved the problem. Installation videos did not show my exact model, but there’s not much in there to remove so I figured it out. This worked out so well that I then purchased the same parts to repair the garage refrigerator, which has turned into a big freezer. 

Condensor fan had failed. Replaced it. Fan worked but compressor still clicked. Replace startup relay and condensor on compressor. Still did not start. Compressor has failed. Cheaper to buy new now. Received great service from appliance pros. Service call to diagnose would have been the same price as my parts. 

We had an electrical surge from a weather event, and the freezer/refrigerator wouldn't stay cool. We replaced the compressor start relay and run capacitor, not sure which or if both were the problem but the start relay is inexpensive so might as well replace it too. We watched the video on the repair, and it was great! No issues with following instructions and the refrigerator runs like new. 

Replacement of the old part. 

I followed the advice on trouble shooting the problem from multiple online sources. They were helpful including the ones on AppliancePartsPros.com. The parts I ordered were based on percentages of AppPartsPros listed. They arrived within 24 hrs as promised and paid for. The relay was not an exact fit for the wiring harness I had. I needed to adapt the connections to make the relay fit and used the new capacitor as well. It didn't solve my problem. What it ended up being was the thermostat control located on the roof of the freezer was turned OFF! I've never seen this dial/switch before (except maybe when I first set it 20 years ago). It's near the ice tray shelf so I imagine I must have eventually turned it off slowly with every clumsy ice tray refill/replacement. NO online videos suggested this "duh" first step. I'm positive I'm not the only person who hasn't seen this dial in awhile and might have had the same problem. I kept the parts I ordered in the unit since the wiring I changed would now not fit with the old relay I took out. Lesson learned. I hope this helps just ONE other person. 

Found the suggested repair on AppliancePartsPros.com website after Google search. They showed symptoms and most likely repair. Watched the video they had ordered the parts and got them the next day (awesome!! Didn’t expect that really). Went to install them and the aorta were not the same. A quick phone call and got help night away. Parts were improved version. I sent them a picture of the old parts and new parts together and they replied right away on how to wire it correctly. Put it together and it’s running and cooling as it should!! Sure saved us buying a new refrigerator!!! Only issue was with the electrical connectors, I had to go get mini spades. But that is super minor!! I’ll go to AppliancePartsPros.com first from now on!!