New refrigerator Atlant delivered, unpacked and installed in the kitchen, but before turning it on for the first time, a critical step must be completed - dismantling the fasteners. Shipping bolts secure the compressor and shock absorbers during transport, protecting them from shock and vibration. If you ignore this stage and start the unit with the engine fixed, the vibrations will not be dampened, which will lead to rapid failure of the suspension and loud noise.
The process of removing these elements is simple, but requires care and adherence to a certain sequence of actions. Owners often face difficulties when unscrewing rusted or tightly screwed screws, as well as the question of where to put the holes after dismantling. Correct implementation of this procedure guarantees quiet operation and a long service life of your refrigeration equipment refrigeration equipment.
In this article we will look in detail at where exactly the fasteners are located on different models Atlant, what tools will be needed and how to properly plug the resulting holes. Following the instructions will help you avoid typical mistakes that can lead to damage to the case or internal cooling system immediately after purchase.
Location and purpose of fixing elements
Transport bolts in Belarusian-made refrigerators Atlant perform a rigid fixation function compressor-condensing unit. Unlike washing machines, where the bolts hold the drum, here they press the shock absorber springs to the frame or directly fix the compressor housing. This prevents them from moving and breaking the tubes when shaking in the truck.
On most models, including the popular series XM-4008, XM-4424 and two-chamber options, the fasteners are located on the rear wall of the case. Typically these are 2 or 4 attachment points located symmetrically at the bottom of the unit. In some older or specific models, the bolts may be hidden under a decorative plastic panel covering the engine compartment.
- 🔧 Rear panel: The main location area where the bolt heads passing through the holes in the metal are visible.
- 🔩 Threaded bushings: Often the bolts are screwed not into the body itself, but into welded nuts or bushings that need to be carefully unscrewed.
- 📦 Includes: Removed parts are usually placed in a bag with documents or attached with tape to the back wall for storage.
It is important to understand that the design of the suspension compressor is designed for free movement. While the bolts are tightened, the springs are in a compressed or fixed state. Trying to work in this mode is tantamount to driving a car with blocked shock absorbers on a broken road - the resource of the components will be exhausted in a matter of hours.
Necessary tools and preparation of the workplace
For successful dismantling you will not need complex professional tools, but having the right equipment will make it easier task. The main tool will be a wrench or a socket of the appropriate size. Most often in refrigerators Atlant the size 10 mm or 12 mmis used, but it is better to prepare a set, since non-standard fasteners could have been used at the factory.
Before starting work, ensure free access to the rear wall. Move the refrigerator at least 1 meter away from the wall. If the floor is slippery, place cardboard or a rag under the feet to prevent the equipment from moving away while applying force. Also, prepare a container for storing the removed parts so that they do not get lost.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use impact screwdrivers or wrenches to unscrew. High torque can strip the threads in a welded nut or damage the paintwork around the hole, which will lead to corrosion.If the bolts are stuck or covered with oxides (which happens when stored for a long time in a warehouse), treat them in advance with a penetrating lubricant, for example,
WD-40. Leave the mixture on for 10-15 minutes to dissolve the rust. This will help avoid breaking the bolt head when unscrewing.Step-by-step instructions for dismantling
The process of removing the fastener takes no more than 10-15 minutes. The main thing is to act consistently and without sudden jerks. First, visually inspect the back wall and identify all attachment points. Make sure you do not confuse the shipping bolts with the adjusting screws or condenser mounting elements.
Take a wrench and place it firmly on the head of the bolt. Start rotating counterclockwise. If the bolt doesn't budge, don't use too much force right away—try rocking it slightly by tightening and loosening. After the thread comes out of place, unscrew the fasteners completely.
☑️ Algorithm for removing bolts
Done: 0 / 1After removing all the bolts, it is necessary to check the mobility of the compressor. Press lightly on the top of the unit (through the grille or protective cover). It should swing slightly and return to its original position, making a quiet sound. If the compressor is “dead” and does not move, it means that some fixing elements remain inside or have not been completely unscrewed.
- 👀 Visual inspection: Make sure that there are no broken studs or nuts left in the holes.
- 🖐️ Checking the play: The compressor should move freely on the shock absorbers when pressed by hand.
- 🧹 Cleaning: Wipe the holes from factory grease or dust before installing the plugs.
Installing decorative plugs
After removing the bolts, through holes remain on the back wall, through which dust, moisture and small insects can get into the body. In addition, these holes violate the thermal insulation and aesthetics of the product. Included with the refrigerator Atlant special plastic plugs (spots) are always supplied.
Find round plastic parts in white or gray in the bag with documents. They have a cylindrical shape with a small thickening cap. Installation is carried out by simply pressing with your finger until there is a characteristic click or a tight fit in the hole.
If the factory plugs are lost or damaged, do not leave the holes open. You can use plugs from other household appliances of a similar diameter or cut circles from thick rubber and place them on hot glue. However, it is better to keep the original components.
Element type Function Action after installation Transport bolt Fixing the compressor Remove and save Plastic plug Sealing the hole Install in the hole Rubber washer Seal (if yes) Put on the plug or in the hole Make sure that the plugs fit tightly and do not protrude beyond the plane of the back wall if you plan to install a protective panel there. A loose fit can cause air whistling when the fan is operating (in No Frost models).
Features of different Atlant models
The mounting design may vary slightly depending on the series and year of manufacture of the refrigerator. In classic two-chamber models with one compressor, the design is standard: 2 or 4 bolts at the rear. However, in newer or larger models there may be nuances.
In refrigerator systems No Frost with two compressors (for each circuit separately), it is necessary to check both units. Often the second, smaller compressor also has locking elements that are easy to miss. In models with a bottom freezer, access may be difficult due to the protruding condenser.
Nuances of older models
In Atlant refrigerators produced before 2010, there was often a fastening system where the bolts passed right through the rubber shock absorbers. When removing them, it is important not to lose the metal bushings that may have fallen inside the hole. If the bushing remains in the hole, carefully remove it with tweezers.
For three-chamber models or refrigerators with a “zero temperature” zone, additional fixation of the evaporator is sometimes used. Carefully read the instructions specifically for your model
XM-...indicated on the nameplate inside the camera. There may be a diagram with precise indication of the mounting points.
- 🏠 KSD Series: Standard rear location, 2 bolts.
- ❄️ No Frost Series: Checking of both compressors is required, if there are two of them.
- 📏 Narrow models: Access may be limited, you will need a ratchet wrench with an extension.
📊 Did you encounter difficulties in removing the bolts?The bolts did not unscrew/stuck: Didn’t find a plug in included: I was afraid of damaging the wall: Everything went easily and quicklyWhat happens if you forget to remove the bolts?
Starting the refrigerator with the transport bolts tightened is one of the most common reasons for contacting the service center in the first year of operation. The compressor, deprived of the ability to absorb shock, transfers all vibration to the housing and pipelines. This causes a characteristic loud clanging, knocking and rattling noise that cannot be eliminated by adjusting the legs.
Prolonged operation in this mode leads to breakage of the refrigerant supply pipes, destruction of the internal motor suspension and failure of the valves. Repair in this case will be difficult and expensive, often requiring replacement of the compressor. In addition, such a breakdown may be considered non-warranty if an expert identifies traces of use with transportation fasteners.
⚠️ Attention: If you turn on the refrigerator and hear a strong metallic knock, immediately turn off the device from the network! Check the back wall for the presence of bolts before restarting.In some cases, if the refrigerator was operated with the bolts for a short time (a few minutes to check), critical damage may occur won't happen. However, it’s not worth the risk - it’s better to spend 10 minutes on prevention than years on repairs.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to throw away the shipping bolts after removal?
It is strictly not recommended. Save the bolts and plugs until the end of the warranty period. If the refrigerator needs to be transported (for example, when moving or returning to a store), the absence of these bolts may cause the compressor to break during transport. Fold them into a bag and stick them with tape to the back wall or put them in a box with documents.
What to do if the plastic plugs are lost?
It is possible to operate the refrigerator without plugs, but it is undesirable due to dust ingress and damage to the thermal insulation. Temporarily seal the holes with masking tape or use plugs of a suitable diameter. Original plugs can be ordered at the service center or you can pick up universal ones at a hardware store.
Do you need to wait after installing the refrigerator before turning it on?
Yes, after transportation, especially if the refrigerator was lying on its side, you need to let it stand upright for 2 to 4 hours (in winter up to 8 hours). This is necessary to allow oil to drain into the compressor and equalize temperatures. Only after this can you remove the bolts and turn on the device.
Where can I find the diagram for my Atlant model?
The diagram of the location of the bolts and plugs is always in the paper instructions included in the box. It can also be found on the manufacturer’s official website in the support section by entering the model indicated on the silver sticker inside the refrigerator compartment.