When purchasing a new refrigerator Pozis the buyer is often faced with the need to properly unpack and prepare the equipment for the first start. One of the most critical stages of this process is the removal of special fasteners that secure the moving parts of the unit during transportation. These elements, known as shipping bolts, prevent damage to the compressor and suspension when shaking in the back of a truck.
Many owners of household appliances do not know where exactly to look for these fasteners, since manufacturers often hide them under decorative plugs or in niches on the back wall. If you ignore the need to dismantle them, the vibration of the running motor will not be dampened, which will lead to a lot of noise, “jumping” of the refrigerator around the kitchen and, ultimately, to breakdown of the compressor.
In this article, we will analyze in detail the location of fasteners in various models of refrigerators Position, describe the step-by-step process of their removal and answer frequently asked questions. It is important to understand that the design may vary slightly depending on the series, but the general principles remain the same for the entire brand line.
Location of fasteners on the back wall
The main place where the transport bolts are located on the refrigerator Pozis is the back panel housings. This is where the compressor is located, which is the heaviest and most vulnerable element of the cooling system. To protect it during transportation, the manufacturer uses rigid fixation of the springs on which the motor is suspended.
Usually you will find from two to four bolts screwed into special eyes or brackets. They can be located symmetrically on either side of the compressor or grouped in one zone, depending on the model. In some cases, the bolts pass through the metal sheet of the case and are screwed directly into the base frame.
⚠️ Attention: Never plug in the refrigerator until you are sure that all shipping fasteners have been completely removed. Running a compressor with a fixed suspension is equivalent to running a car engine with locked wheels - this is guaranteed to lead to the destruction of internal parts.
Often bright stickers with the words “Remove before use” or an image of a crossed out wrench are pasted over the bolt heads. These markings serve as a visual reminder to the user. If you do not immediately see the bolts, carefully inspect the entire area of the back wall, including the bottom area where the protective cover may be installed.
You may have to move the refrigerator away from the wall to access the fasteners. Make sure you have enough room to maneuver and enough lighting to see all the details of the structure. Sometimes the bolts may be hidden under a layer of factory dust or packaging film, which must be carefully removed.
Design features of models with a bottom freezer
Refrigerators Pozis with a bottom freezer, often called "combi", have their own characteristics in the fastening system. In such models, the compressor may be offset from the center or have additional protection in the form of a metal casing. In this case, shipping bolts often fix not only the motor itself, but also the evaporative system or condenser, if they have movable connections.
Owners of series models RD or RS should pay attention to the lower part of the rear panel. Here the fastening elements can be arranged horizontally, passing through the side walls of the housing to the central frame. To unscrew them, access from the sides may be required, which requires moving the refrigerator at an angle.
It is important to note that some modern modifications Pozis use a combined fixation system. This means that in addition to the bolts on the back wall, there may be additional spacers inside the case or special brackets that hold the doors in place. However, the classic transport bolts in question are always located on the outside.
If your refrigerator is equipped with a system No Frost, the compressor suspension design can be strengthened. In such cases, the bolts are long and threaded to withstand high loads. When removing them, it is necessary to apply uniform force so as not to break the threads in the metal bushings.
Specifics of fastening in models with a top freezer
In classic two-chamber refrigerators Pozis with a freezer on top, the layout of the units is often more compact. The compressor in such models is usually located in a niche at the bottom of the rear wall, and the transport bolts are screwed directly into the legs of the compressor or into the bracket on which it is mounted.
A feature of such models is that the bolts can be covered with a decorative plastic cover. This cover serves as protection against dust and accidental contact with hot parts, but also hides the attachment points. To remove the lining, a tool is usually not required, just pull it lightly or snap off the latches.
In rare cases, typical for old or specific industrial series Pozis, transport elements can fix the refrigerant pipes. This is done to prevent them from deforming upon impact. If you see bolts running close to copper tubing, proceed with extreme caution to avoid damaging the thin-walled metal.
Checking that all bolts are present on top freezer models must be especially careful, as due to the high density of the arrangement, one of the four fasteners may be hidden behind pipes or electrical wires. Use a flashlight to illuminate hard-to-reach places.
Instructions for removing transportation bolts
The process of dismantling fasteners does not require complex professional equipment, but requires compliance with a certain sequence of actions. Failure to follow the removal procedure may result in compressor misalignment or damage to the threads. Before starting work, be sure to disconnect the refrigerator from the power supply.
To work, you will need a wrench (usually 10, 12 or 14 mm in size, depending on the model) or a powerful screwdriver if the bolt heads are slotted for it. Included with some models Pozis a special key may be supplied, which is often secured with tape on the body or lies in Documentation.
Below is a table that will help determine the standard size of fasteners for different series of refrigerators Pozis. This data is for reference only, as the factory may make changes to the design.
| Refrigerator series | Number of bolts | Head type | Required tools |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pozis RD-106 | 2 pcs. | Hexagon | Key 12 mm |
| Pozis RS-411 | 4 pcs. | Hexagon | Key 10 mm |
| Pozis FV-106 | 2 pcs. | For a screwdriver | Phillips screwdriver |
| Pozis RK-139 | 4 pcs. | Hexagon | Wrench 14 mm |
Start unscrewing from the top bolts, if they are located vertically, or from those that are in the most accessible place. Do not remove the bolt completely until all other fasteners have been loosened to avoid sudden movement of the compressor. After unscrewing all the bolts, carefully remove them along with the rubber bushings (if any).
Keep the removed parts in a safe place. If you need to transport it again (for example, when moving or sending it to a service center), you will definitely need to install them back.
☑️ Checklist for removing bolts
What to do if the bolts cannot be found
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where, following the instructions, they cannot find the transportation bolts on the back wall. This can cause confusion: have they already been removed at the factory, or are they simply impossible to find? In most modern models Pozis these elements are mandatory, and their absence requires explanation.
The first reason for the absence of visible bolts is that they can be covered with a removable protective panel. This is a metal or plastic sheet screwed with self-tapping screws around the perimeter of the lower part of the rear wall. By unscrewing this panel, you will gain access to the compressor and fastening elements.
The second reason is the design features of a particular batch. Some models may be equipped with shipping brackets that are not screwed in, but snapped or secured with clamps. Carefully inspect the area around the compressor for brightly colored plastic clips (often orange or yellow), which you can simply remove by hand.
⚠️ Attention: If after a thorough inspection you do not find any external fasteners, but when you first turn on the refrigerator makes a strong knock or vibrates, turn it off immediately. Perhaps the fixing elements are located inside the case or require removal of the back metal cover, which is best left to specialists.
It is also worth checking the documentation included in the kit. The owner's manual for your specific model may have a diagram showing exact mounting locations. Look for the "Transportation" or "Installation" sections.
In rare cases, especially when purchasing equipment from a display case or after exhibition samples, the bolts may have been removed earlier. If you are sure that the equipment is new, but there are no bolts, contact the seller to clarify the contents.
Is it possible to transport a refrigerator without bolts?
It is highly not recommended to transport a working or even just a used refrigerator without shipping bolts. Compressor springs can stretch and tubes can burst due to vibration. If the bolts are lost, before transporting over long distances it is better to carefully secure the compressor with wooden blocks and soft gaskets, although this does not guarantee complete safety.
The consequences of working with installed bolts
Operating a refrigerator Pozis with screwed-in shipping bolts is emergency mode that must be excluded. The compressor in modern refrigerators is suspended on springs, which dampen the vibration that occurs during operation of the piston group. The bolts rigidly fix these springs, depriving them of functionality.
The first sign of a problem will be an uncharacteristically high noise level. Instead of a quiet hum, you will hear a loud rattle, clanging or hum that will radiate into the floor and walls. The refrigerator may begin to “walk” around the kitchen, moving from its place with each cycle of turning on the motor.
Long-term operation in this mode leads to the following consequences:
- ⚡ Destruction suspensions: Springs may burst or become deformed, which will require complex repairs involving disassembling the unit.
- ⚡ Pipe breakage: Vibration is transmitted to copper pipelines; microcracks can form in soldering areas, through which freon will evaporate.
- ⚡ Damage to the compressor: The internal parts of the motor are overloaded, which reduces its service life by several times and can lead to wedge.
In addition, constant strong vibration can lead to depressurization of the system or damage to electronic components located on the control board if it is not secured tightly enough.
If you notice that the refrigerator has been working with bolts for a short time (a few minutes to check), rather In all, he will be fine after they are removed. But if it has been operating like this for hours or days, it is recommended to call a technician to diagnose the condition of the compressor and check the pressure in the system.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to use shipping bolts to level the refrigerator?
No, absolutely not. Shipping bolts have a different design and purpose. To level the height and stability of the unit, use only the adjustable support feet located on the front bottom of the refrigerator. Tightening and unscrewing them allows you to compensate for uneven floors.
What to do if the threads of the bolts are stripped or they are rusted?
If the bolts cannot be unscrewed due to corrosion or damage to the threads, do not use excessive force so as not to break the bracket. Try using a penetrating lubricant (such as WD-40) by applying it to the threads and waiting 15-20 minutes. If this does not help, it is better to contact a service center Pozisto avoid damaging the frame.
Do you need to close the holes after removing the bolts?
In most refrigerator models Pozis the holes remain open after unscrewing the bolts, and this is normal. However, if the kit came with special plastic plugs, be sure to install them in place. They prevent dust, moisture and small objects from getting inside the case to the electrical components.
Where to store the removed shipping bolts?
Keep the bolts, nuts and rubber bushings in a bag with instructions or tape them to the back wall of the refrigerator (from the outside, in an inconspicuous place). The best option is to put them in a refrigerator box if you plan to store the container. When moving or repairing, their presence is critical.
Does the absence of bolts affect the warranty?
The very fact of removing the bolts does not affect the warranty, since this is a mandatory procedure before operation. However, if you contact the service center with a compressor breakdown, and the technician discovers that the bolts were not removed (or, conversely, they were removed, but the breakdown is due to their absence during transportation), you may be denied warranty repairs due to violation of operating rules.