Purchasing a new one refrigerator is always a joyful event, marking the renewal of household appliances in the kitchen. However, the installation process is often overshadowed by the search for critical fastening elements that manufacturers hide from prying eyes. Shipping bolts This is a key component that ensures the safety of the compressor and internal tubes during delivery, and their correct removal is critical before first use.
Owners Technicians Indesit often have difficulty finding these fasteners, as their location can vary depending on the specific model and year of manufacture. An incorrect understanding of the design of the rear wall leads to the fact that users either cannot find the fasteners, or, worse, try to start the unit with them. Indesit is a brand that requires careful attention to installation procedures to ensure long service.
In this article we will analyze in detail where exactly the fixing elements are located on the different series of refrigerators, how to safely dismantle them and what to do if you accidentally turn on the appliance with the limiters installed. Understanding the design of of the shock-absorbing system will help you avoid costly repairs.
Purpose and principle of operation of the fixing elements
The main task of the transportation bolts is rigid fixation compressor inside the body. During transportation on uneven roads or when carried by loaders, a compressor suspended on springs can make chaotic movements with a large amplitude. Without special limiters, this would lead to a break in the copper tubes or damage to the motor suspension system.
Structurally, the bolts pass through the back wall of the refrigerator and are screwed directly into the base of the compressor or the frame on which it is mounted. This turns the moving system into a monolithic structure that is immune to vibrations. Indesit refrigerators designed so that in operating mode these bolts must be completely removed, allowing the springs to dampen vibrations.
⚠️ Attention: An attempt to operate the refrigerator with screwed in shipping bolts will lead to the transfer of strong vibration to the entire housing and rapid destruction of the compressor suspension.
After delivery and unpacking, these elements are no longer needed, moreover, their presence becomes dangerous for the equipment. Some users mistakenly believe that they are used for fastening to the wall, but this is not so. Stabilization occurs only due to adjustable supports at the bottom of the device.
Typical layouts on the rear wall
The search for fasteners begins with studying the rear panel of the unit. For most models Indesit they are located symmetrically in the corners of the lower part of the rear wall. Visually, these are four protruding elements, often closed with plastic plugs or rubber bushings that need to be removed.
The number of bolts may vary. In classic two-chamber models there are usually four of them, but in some compact versions or older series there is a scheme with two or three mounting points. It is important to inspect the entire surface, since sometimes one of the bolts may be hidden behind protruding elements of the condenser or radiator grille.
- 🔩 Upper corners: in rare cases, there are models where the upper bolts secure the upper part of the compressor frame.
- 🔩 Bottom corners: standard location for 90% of Indesit refrigerators, where the bolts hold the base of the motor.
- 🔩 Central axis: for some industrial or specific models, the fasteners may be offset to the center.
For dismantling you will need a wrench, the size of which usually corresponds to the head of the bolt (most often 10 or 12 mm). Sometimes manufacturers include a key in the kit, attaching it with tape to the inner wall of the chamber or packaging foam.
Instructions for safe removal of fasteners
Before starting work, make sure that the refrigerator is disconnected from the power supply. This is a basic safety rule that cannot be ignored. Prepare a place for folding the removed parts, as they may be needed during repeated transportation.
☑️ Preparation for dismantling
The unscrewing process is best done with an assistant who will hold the refrigerator while you work with the key. Unscrew the bolts counterclockwise with sharp movements. If the bolt is rusty or stuck (which happens when stored in a warehouse for a long time), do not use excessive force so as not to strip the threads.
After removing all the bolts, pay attention to the resulting holes. The package Indesit often includes plastic plugs that need to be used to close these holes to preserve the thermal insulation and aesthetics of the rear wall. If the plugs are lost, the holes can be temporarily sealed with tape, but it is better to order original ones.
⚠️ Attention: Do not leave the holes open for a long time, as moisture can penetrate through them into the thermal insulation layer, which will lead to corrosion of the case.
Design features of different Indesit series
The diversity of the model range Indesit dictates different approaches to fastening design. In the series Indesit EF bolts often have an elongated threaded part and large plastic tips that are easy to notice. In more modern series, such as Indesit DF or DS, engineers could change the configuration by hiding the bolt heads deeper in the recesses.
Below is a table to help identify the type of fastening depending on the series:
| Refrigerator Series | Number of bolts | Location | Key type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indesit EF 18/20 | 4 pcs. | Lower corners at the back | Open-end 10 mm |
| Indesit DS 318 | 4 pcs. | Along the perimeter of the compressor | Slip-on 12 mm |
| Indesit B 18/20 | 2-4 pcs. | Symmetrically from below | Combined |
| Indesit C 130 | 3 pcs. | Triangle | Carob 10 mm |
It is important to understand that modifications may vary depending on the year of manufacture. If you do not find the bolts in standard places, carefully inspect the area around the motor itself; access to them may be limited by the protective casing.
What to do if the bolts are rusty?
If the shipping bolts cannot be removed due to corrosion, apply a penetrating lubricant (for example, WD-40) to the threads and leave it on 15-20 minutes. After this, try to carefully tear them off with a wrench, avoiding sudden jerks.
Consequences of starting with the bolts installed
Starting the refrigerator with the bolts screwed in transport clamps is one of the most common reasons for compressor failure in the first year of operation. Vibration, which is normally damped by springs, is transmitted directly to the body and internal components. This leads to a characteristic loud hum and knocking.
Prolonged operation in this mode causes rupture of the tubes through which the refrigerant circulates. Solder joints may also break. Repair in this case requires calling a technician, sealing the system and refilling with freon, which is often comparable in cost to buying a new budget refrigerator.
- 🔊 Loud noise: the first sign of improper installation, which cannot be ignored.
- 📉 Motor overheating: due to the lack of shock absorption, the compressor operates with increased load.
- 💥 Depressurization: the risk of freon leakage increases significantly with each vibration.
If you hear strange sounds immediately after turning on, immediately unplug the device and check the back wall. Perhaps you simply forgot to unscrew one of the four bolts.
Tips for storage and re-transportation
Many owners throw away shipping bolts immediately after installation, considering them garbage. This is a wrong decision. If you ever have to move or have your refrigerator repaired, missing these fasteners can be a big problem. Without them, the compressor may be damaged even if carefully transported in an elevator.
Place the removed bolts, plugs and instructions in a separate bag. Tape this bag securely inside one of the refrigerator shelves or on the door so you don't lose it. Some users mark the package with the words "For transport" so that they do not forget about its contents in the future.
When reinstalling, proceed in the reverse order: screw the bolts all the way in before tilting or transporting, and be sure to unscrew them before using them for the first time in a new place. Do not rely on memory, it is better to double-check each stage.
Frequent errors during installation and assembly
One of the common mistakes is an attempt to replace missing bolts with any metal rods that come to hand. This is strictly prohibited. Thread And the length of the standard bolts is calculated by engineers Indesit specially for fixing the compressor without the risk of damaging its housing.
Another mistake is loose tightening or, conversely, overtightening. The bolts must be tightened firmly, but without fanaticism. When dismantling, they must be unscrewed completely until they come out of the hole freely. The tip of the bolt remaining in the thread may interfere with the normal operation of the shock absorbers.
⚠️ Attention: The design of refrigerators may vary slightly depending on the batch. Always check the paper instructions included in the box if visual inspection is in doubt.
Pay attention to detail, and your refrigerator Indesit will last for many years, keeping food fresh and operating quietly. Correct installation is the key to avoiding problems in the future.
What to do if one bolt is rusty and cannot be unscrewed?
Do not use excessive force so as not to strip the threads or break the bolt head. Treat the joint with penetrating lubricant (WD-40 or equivalent), wait 15-20 minutes. Try to gently loosen the bolt by twisting and unscrewing it slightly. If this does not work, it is better to contact a service center so as not to damage the compressor.
Is it possible to transport a refrigerator without shipping bolts?
It is strictly not recommended. Without fixation, the compressor will dangle inside the housing, which is highly likely to lead to broken tubes or damage to the suspension, even with careful transportation. If the bolts are lost, replacements must be made or purchased before transportation.
Do I need to close the holes after removing the bolts?
Yes, definitely. Indesit refrigerators usually come with plastic plugs. They prevent dust, moisture and insects from entering the case, and also maintain the thermal insulation properties of the rear wall. If the plugs are lost, the holes should be closed with any suitable material.
Where to find the instructions if the paper version is lost?
The full electronic version of the user manual for your model can be found on the official website of the manufacturer Indesit in the "Support" or "Instructions" section. Enter the model of the refrigerator (indicated on a sticker inside the chamber), and the system will issue a corresponding document with diagrams.