Opening the refrigerator compressor cover Atlant is a necessary step when diagnosing malfunctions, changing the oil or repairing the engine. However, many owners encounter difficulties: the latches break, the screws “stick”, and incorrect removal of the cover can lead to depressurization of the system or damage to the contacts. In this article we will look at how to dismantle the cover on models MHM 1708-03, XM 4021-000 and other popular series without affecting the performance of the equipment.
It is important to consider that the design cover depends on the year of manufacture of the refrigerator. For example, models before 2015 often have metal latches, while new ones often have plastic latches. We will consider universal methods, but if your Atlant was produced before 2010, check for the presence of an additional seal on the compressor - its damage will void the warranty on the freon circuit..
Before you begin, make sure that the refrigerator is unplugged for at least 30 minutes. This is necessary not only for safety, but also to relieve pressure in the system - otherwise, when removing the cover, an oil leak may occur.
Preparation of tools and workplace
To dismantle the compressor cover you will need:
- ✅ Phillips screwdriver (size PH2 - standard for Atlant)
- ✅ Flat-head screwdriver or plastic pick (to separate the latches)
- ✅ Pliers (if the screws are stuck)
- ✅ Flashlight or table lamp (lighting the back wall of the refrigerator)
- ✅ Marker or tape (for marking wires when disconnected)
Position the refrigerator so that the back wall is accessible. If the equipment is built-in, first remove it from the niche. Place cardboard or fabric under the compressor - this will protect the floor from scratches if the tool accidentally slips. Do not work in tight spaces: the minimum distance to the walls is 50. see
⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator is connected to a smart home system or has an electronic control unit (for example, models Atlant XM 6025-081), before removing the cover, disconnect the battery terminals (if any) or remove the battery from the control panel. Otherwise, protection against unauthorized access may work.
Before starting work, take photographs of the location of all wires and tubes on the compressor. This will help avoid errors during reassembly. Pay special attention starting relay to its position relative to the cover often changes depending on the modification.
Determining the type of cover fastening
Compressor covers Atlant are fixed in three ways:
| Type of fastening | Refrigerator models | Removal features |
|---|---|---|
| Screws + latches | MHM 1708-03, XM 4021-000 | First, 2-4 screws are unscrewed, then the plastic latches around the perimeter are opened |
| Latch only | New models after 2020 | Requires uniform pressure on all latches at the same time |
| Metal brackets | Old models before 2010 | Staples bend flat screwdriver, corrosion is possible |
To determine the type of fastening, inspect the cover from the side. The screws are usually located in the corners, and the latches are hidden under small protrusions. If you see rust on the metal elements, treat them WD-40 10-15 minutes before dismantling.
On. models Atlant with a system No Frost (for example, XM 4626-100) the compressor cover may be part of the overall condenser casing. In this case, first remove the top panel of the condenser, and then the motor cover.
Step-by-step instructions for removing the cover
Consider a universal algorithm for most models Atlant:
Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains and pull it out of the niche (if it is built-in).
Remove the lower decorative panel (if any) - it is attached to 2-3 plastic latches.
Inspect the compressor cover:
- 🔧 If there are screws, unscrew them counterclockwise.
- 🔗 If there are latches - pry them off with a flat screwdriver, starting from the top corner.
- 🔩 If there are staples, carefully bend them with pliers.
After removing all the fasteners, pull the cover towards you and up. It should come off the guides.
If the cover is “stuck”, do not. apply force - process the joints silicone grease and wait 5-10 minutes.
On models with with an inverter compressor (for example, Atlant XM 6026-080) the cover can be additionally fixed sealant along the contour. In this case, it needs to be pryed around the entire perimeter, starting from the corner where there are no wires.
☑️ Checklist before removing the cover
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes when working with a compressor. Here are the most common:
- ❌ Thread breakage. screws —occurs when using the wrong screwdriver. Always check the size.
- ❌ Damage to the insulation of the wires - you cannot pull the cover with the terminals connected. First, disconnect the wires, having previously marked them.
- ❌ Loss of sealing rubber - on some models there is a thin gasket under the cover. If it is not returned to its place, the compressor will overheat. data-i="125">Loss of sealing rubber
- ❌ Ignoring seals —on warranty refrigerators, seals on the compressor cannot be broken. This will lead to refusal of service.
Pay special attention start relay. On models Atlant it is often attached to the compressor cover and can fall off if removed carefully. If the relay falls, do not turn on the refrigerator - first check the integrity of its contacts.
⚠️ Attention: On refrigerators with the systemSmart Diagnostics(for example, Atlant XM 6324-100) if the cover is removed incorrectly, an error may occurE5(compressor malfunction). To reset it, you will need to reboot the control board.
If after removing the cover you find oil or condensation on the compressor, this is not always the case. a sign of a malfunction. New models use semi-synthetic oil, which may leak a little when overheated. However, if there is a lot of oil, this is a reason to check the level in the system. Atlant semi-synthetic oil is used, which may leak slightly when overheated. However, if there is a lot of oil, this is a reason to check the level in the system.
What to do if the screw breaks inside?
If the screw breaks off, do not try to unscrew it with pliers - this will damage it. thread. Instead:
1. Drill a hole with a thin drill (1–1.5 mm) in the center of the fragment.
2. Insert an extractor (or a self-tapping screw with a reverse thread) into the hole and carefully unscrew it.
3. or a larger diameter screw.
Features for different Atlant models
The design of the compressor cover varies depending on the series of the refrigerator. Let's look at the key differences:
MHM (single-chamber)
On models MHM 1708-03 and MHM 1840-80 The compressor cover is secured with 4 screws and 2 plastic latches. A special feature is the presence of an additional metal plate covering the start relay. It must be removed separately by unscrewing 2 screws.
XM (two-chamber)
In series XM 4021-000 i XM 4424-000 the cover is often combined: the upper part is plastic (with latches), the lower part is metal (with screws). When dismantling, the plastic is first removed, then the metal.
New models (after 2020)
In refrigerators Atlant XM 6026-080 i XM 6324-100 a quick release system is used: the cover is fixed on 6 plastic latches without screws. To remove, you will need a special plastic key (included) or two flat screwdrivers.
On models with linear inverter compressor (for example, Atlant XM 4626-100) the cover has an additional heat-insulating gasket. When reassembling it, it must be installed strictly according to the marks, otherwise the compressor will overheat.
Reassembly: nuances and verification
After repair or diagnostics, the compressor cover must be installed back, following several rules:
Check the integrity of the sealing rubber. If it is torn or deformed, replace it with a new one (part number for Atlant —
5400.0000.123).Make sure that all wires are connected to the start relay in the correct sequence. On new models, the color marking may differ - check the photo taken before disassembly.
Tighten the screws crosswise to avoid distortion of the cover. Tightening torque - no more than 1.5 Nm (do not overtighten!).
Before turning on the refrigerator, check that the wires do not touch the metal parts of the case. A short circuit can damage the control board.
After assembly, turn on the refrigerator and observe its operation for 10-15 minutes. Pay attention to:
- 🔊 Compressor noise — there should be no extraneous knocks or vibrations.
- 🌡️ Condenser temperature —it should heat up evenly.
- ⚡ Error indication —no codes should appear on the display
E1,E5orF2.
⚠️ Attention: If after assembly the refrigerator does not turn on, check the fuse on the control board (usually it is located next to the transformer On models Atlant before 2018, the fuse may burn out if connected incorrectly). start relay.
If you notice that the compressor has become louder or longer than usual, the tightness of the system may have been broken during assembly. In this case, repeated diagnostics will be required by checking the oil level and pressure.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing the compressor cover
Is it possible? open the compressor lid without disconnecting the refrigerator from the mains?
No. Even if you are an experienced electrician, working with the compressor under voltage is dangerous: the starting relay is at 220V potential. In addition, when the power is turned on, there is a risk of a short circuit when touching the contacts with a screwdriver. Always wait 30 minutes after turning off - this time is needed to discharge. condensers.
What to do if liquid leaks from the compressor after removing the cover?
Most likely it is oil from the compressor crankcase. Don’t panic - a small leak (up to 50 ml) is not critical. Wipe the oil with a napkin and check the level through the inspection window (if there is one). If a lot of oil has leaked out (more than that). 100 ml), you will need to top up mineral oil for compressors (for example, Emkarate RL 32H). Do not use automotive or synthetic oils!
How to remove the cover if the screws are rusty and cannot be unscrewed?
First treat the screws with penetrating lubricant (WD-40 or Liqui Moly MoS2) and wait 15-20 minutes. If this does not help:
- Put a rubber gasket (for example, from a bicycle tube) on the screw and try to unscrew it again - the rubber will increase. clutch.
- Use an impact screwdriver or a cordless impact wrench with a pulse function.
- As a last resort, drill out the screw with a drill with a diameter 0.5 mm smaller than the thread, then cut a new thread with a tap.
Does it need to be changed? sealing rubber under the compressor cover?
Only damaged rubber requires replacement (torn, delaminated, lost elasticity). If the seal is intact, but slightly flattened, it can be restored by lubricating with silicone grease (for example, Molykote 111Do not use). Vaseline or oils - they destroy the rubber. On new models Atlant the seal is often glued - in this case it is better not to touch it unless necessary.
Is it possible to replace the compressor yourself if the cover has already been removed?
Theoretically, yes, but this is a complex procedure that requires:
- Special equipment for vacuuming the system.
- A supply of freon (for Atlant usually used R-134a or R-600a).
- Experience in soldering copper tubes.
Without these skills, you risk releasing all the freon or damaging the capillary tube. If the compressor is faulty, it is better to contact the service - the cost of replacement (3-6 thousand rubles) is often lower than the damage from improper repair.