Purchasing a new refrigerator is a joyful event, but the process of installing it often raises questions among unprepared users. This is especially true when the unit has already been installed in the kitchen, but makes strange sounds or vibrates during operation. In 90% of cases, the cause of discomfort is forgotten transport bolts, which must be dismantled before the first start.
Refrigerators Atlant, like any other equipment with a compressor, are equipped with a special engine fixation system. This is necessary to protect the internal mechanisms from damage during delivery, when shaking and shock can be fatal to the motor mount. However, in working condition, these fasteners turn into a source of serious problems.
If you notice that your new refrigerator Atlant hums louder than usual, “jumps” on the floor or vibrates strongly when touching the body, the first thing you need to check is whether the fasteners have been removed. Ignoring this stage can lead to rapid wear of the compressor and even its breakdown, which will not be considered a warranty case.
⚠️ Attention: Operating the refrigerator with installed transportation bolts is prohibited. This creates excess vibration, which is transmitted to the housing and floor, and can also cause displacement of the internal refrigerant tubes.
Design of the compressor fixation system
To understand where to look for the bolts, you need to understand the principle of operation of the refrigeration unit. The compressor, which is the heart of the system, is not tightly screwed to the frame, but is suspended on special springs or shock absorbers. This vibration isolation is necessary to dampen vibrations that occur during operation of the piston group.
During transportation, the moving part must be firmly fixed, otherwise inertial forces will rupture the tubes or damage the springs. To do this, long metal pins are used that pass through the bushings on the housing and are screwed directly into the compressor frame. For different models Atlant the system may look different, but the principle is the same.
The number of fasteners varies. Most often there are four of them, but in some modifications with dual-circuit cooling or a special type of compressor there may be two or three. They are always located at the bottom of the device, hidden from the user’s eyes by decorative panels or simply located on the back wall.
Why can’t the bolts just be left?
If the transport bolts are not removed, vibration from the compressor will be transmitted directly to the metal body of the refrigerator. This will cause a resonance effect, due to which the equipment will hum like a transformer box, and over time, the mounting points may become deformed or burst.
The exact location of the fastening elements
The answer to the question of where the transport bolts are located on the refrigerator Atlantis clear: they are located on back wall case in its lower part. You do not need to look inside the refrigerator or freezer, all manipulations are carried out from the outside.
Visually finding them is not difficult if you know what to look for. These are solid hex head bolts, often painted black or silver. They can be covered with plastic plugs that need to be carefully removed, or they can protrude directly from the case. In some older models, they may be covered with a removable panel made of fiberboard or plastic.
Pay attention to the markings. Next to the bolt holes on the metal sheet of the back wall there is often a pictogram - a crossed out wrench or a schematic image of a bolt. This is a factory reminder to remove before turning on.
Step-by-step instructions for dismantling
The process of removing fasteners is technically simple, but requires compliance with safety precautions and the availability of suitable tools. You should not try to unscrew the bolts with bare hands or inappropriate objects, so as not to tear off the edges and damage the threads.
First you need to provide access to the back wall. Move the refrigerator away from the wall at a distance sufficient for comfortable operation. Make sure the floor under the equipment is dry and clean to avoid slipping. If you have a bottom freezer model, you may need to temporarily remove shelves or drawers for tilt stability, although this is usually not necessary.
You will need a wrench to do the job. Refrigerators often come with a special key, but it may be inconvenient for long-term use. It is better to prepare an open-end or socket wrench of the appropriate size (usually 10, 12 or 14 mm), as well as pliers. Atlant Often a special key comes with it, but it can be inconvenient for long-term use. It is better to prepare an open-end or socket wrench of the appropriate size (usually 10, 12 or 14 mm), as well as pliers.
☑️ Algorithm for removing transport bolts
Unscrewing is done smoothly, without jerking. If the bolt is stuck or is tight, do not use excessive force, it is better to spray with penetrating lubricant and wait a few minutes. After removing the bolts, do not forget to check if there are any rubber washers or nuts left inside the bushings - they also need to be removed.
Correspondence table for models and number of bolts
The fastening configuration may vary depending on the series and year of manufacture of the equipment. Below is background information on common models that will help you figure out whether you have found all the bolts.
| Refrigerator series | Compressor type | Number of bolts | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlant KHT 4008 | Single-compressor | 4 pcs. | Lower corners of the rear wall |
| Atlant XM 4423 | Single-compressor | 2-4 pcs. | Central lower part |
| Atlant 6021 | Two-compressor | 4-6 pcs. | Around the perimeter lower zone |
| Atlant 4502 | Single compressor | 3 pcs. | Triangle at the base |
⚠️ Attention: The characteristics of the equipment may vary depending on the specific batch and modification. Always visually inspect (inspect) the back panel of your device, and do not blindly rely on the table.
What to do if the bolts are lost or rusted
Sometimes situations arise when shipping fasteners were lost during unpacking, or, conversely, old The refrigerator required transportation, but there were no bolts. In the first case, if the refrigerator is already standing and running quietly, there is no need to look for bolts - they are no longer required.
If you have to transport the refrigerator Atlant a long distance, and the original studs are lost, it is necessary to secure the compressor in other ways. You can use soft rags, polystyrene foam or polyurethane foam (with caution) to fill the space around the motor and prevent it from wobbling.
If the bolts are rusty and cannot be unscrewed, do not use brute force. Spray the threads generously with WD-40 or an equivalent and allow the mixture to penetrate the metal for 15-20 minutes. Then try to gently rock the bolt from side to side.
Consequences of improper operation
Many users underestimate the importance of dismantling fasteners, considering vibration to be the norm. However, operating the compressor in a fixed state is an extreme mode. The springs, which are supposed to cushion, are under constant tension or, conversely, do not work at all, transferring all the vibration energy to the body.
This leads to a number of negative effects. First, there is a strong acoustic noise, which can interfere with sleep and rest. Secondly, vibration is transmitted to the floor and walls, which is especially noticeable in apartment buildings. Thirdly, over time, microcracks may appear in the welds of the tubes or a violation of the tightness of the system.
If you turned on the refrigerator, heard a hum and realized that you forgot to remove the bolts, immediately turn off the appliance from the network. Let the compressor cool for 30-40 minutes, then dismantle it and only after that start the unit again.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to transport an Atlant refrigerator without shipping bolts?
Absolutely not recommended. Without fixation, the compressor will dangle inside the housing, which will most likely lead to broken tubes or damage to the motor mount when shaking on the road.
Do you need to lubricate the bolts before installation during transportation?
It is advisable. Lightly lubricating the threads will prevent rusting and make them easy to remove at your destination. However, do not use excess oil so that it does not drip onto the floor or compressor.
Where are the bolts stored after purchase?
Often they are secured in a foam package on top of the refrigerator or in a bag with instructions. Some manufacturers put them in the vegetable compartment or attach them with tape to the rear wall (outside).
Does removing the bolts affect the warranty?
Yes, it does. If the service center receives a refrigerator with installed shipping bolts and a broken compressor, warranty repairs will be denied due to violation of operating rules.