How to properly remove the transport spacer from the refrigerator: step by step

The transport spacer is a temporary fastener that is installed at the factory to protect the compressor and internal parts of the refrigerator from damage during transportation. It must be removed before the first use, otherwise the equipment may fail and the warranty may be void. However, many users are faced with difficulties: where to look for these spacers, how to dismantle them correctly and what to do if the bolts are “stuck” or the parts do not give in.

In this article we will look at how to remove the transport spacer from refrigerators of popular brands (Samsung, LG, Indesit, Atlant, Bosch and others), what tools will be needed, and what to do if something goes wrong. You will also learn why you cannot ignore this stage of preparing equipment for work and how to avoid common mistakes.

What is a transport spacer and why remove it

A transport spacer (sometimes called transport bolt or compressor lock) is a metal or plastic element that rigidly attaches the compressor springs to the refrigerator body. Without it, vibrations during transportation could damage the refrigerant pipes or the compressor itself. However, in working condition, the spacer interferes with normal shock absorption, due to which:

• 🔊 Noise and vibration during operation increases
• ⚡️ The load on the compressor increases, which shortens its service life
• ❌ A break in the tubes or a leak of freon may occur
• ⚠️ Warranty repairs will be denied if a spacer is not removed

In most models, the spacer is a threaded metal rod that is attached to the back wall of the refrigerator by one or more bolts. In some budget models (for example, “Biryusa” or “Pozis”), plastic clips or latches may be used instead of bolts.

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators with a system No Frost transport spacers are often attached not only to the compressor, but also to the fan. They also need to be removed, otherwise the blades may touch the latch and break.

Where is the transport spacer in the refrigerator

The location of the spacer depends on the model and design of the refrigerator. In 90% of cases it can be found on the back wall, but sometimes manufacturers hide the mounts under decorative panels or even inside the camera. Here are typical places:

In refrigerators Samsung and LG the latest generations, the spacer is often hidden under a plastic cover, which is secured with latches. U Atlant i Indesit bolts are usually open and accessible without disassembly. In models Bosch and Siemens you may need to remove the lower rear panel.

Preparing for dismantling: tools and safety measures

Before you start work, prepare everything you need. You will need:

• 🔧 Phillips and flathead screwdrivers (size depends on the bolts)
• 🔨 Wrench or socket (usually 10 or 13 mm)
• 🧲 Magnetic holder for bolts (so as not to lose)
• 📸 Phone for photo recording (in case of warranty repairs)
• 🧤 Gloves (protection from sharp edges and dirt)

If the bolts are “stuck” or rusty, the following may come in handy:

• 🛠 WD-40 or similar penetrating lubricant
• 🔥 Hair dryer (for heating the metal if the bolt does not give in)
• 🧰 Pliers or an adjustable wrench (for carefully unscrewing the torn edges)

⚠️ Attention: Do not use a grinder or hacksaw to cut down bolts! Metal shavings can get into the compressor or electronics, causing damage. If the bolt cannot be unscrewed, contact the service center - this is free under warranty.

Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains

Pull it out 50–70 cm from the wall to access the back wall

Prepare the tools and lighting

Take a photo of the initial state of the bolts

Wear gloves -->

Step-by-step instructions for removing the transport spacer

The algorithm of actions is the same for most models, but there may be nuances. Follow the instructions and adapt it to your equipment.

Step 1: Disconnecting and placing the refrigerator

Unplug the plug from the outlet and carefully slide the refrigerator away from the wall. If it is heavy, ask for help - it’s better not to risk it. Make sure there is enough space on the back wall to work with. Ideally, there should be at least 60 cm of free space.

Step 2: Inspect and search for fasteners

Carefully inspect the back wall. Look for:

• 🔩 Metal bolts with hex or Phillips heads
• 🔧 Plastic clips or latches (often black or gray)
• 📜 Stickers with inscriptions REMOVE BEFORE USE or REMOVE BEFORE OPERATION

If the spacer is hidden under the panel, carefully pry it out with a screwdriver (usually it is held on by latches). In models No Frost you may need to remove the inner rear cover of the freezer - it is attached to 2-4 screws.

Step 3: Unscrewing the bolts

Take a suitable tool (wrench or screwdriver) and start unscrewing the bolts counterclockwise. Do not use excessive force - if the bolt does not budge:

1. Apply WD-40 and wait 5-10 minutes.
2. Try to lightly tap the bolt head with a hammer (through a soft pad).
3. If the edges are torn off, use an adjustable wrench or pliers.

After unscrewing the bolts, carefully remove the spacer. It may not come out right away - sometimes you need to slightly rock it to the sides. In some models (e.g. Liebherr), the spacer consists of two parts: a metal rod and a plastic retainer. Make sure to remove everything.

Step 4: Inspection and assembly

After dismantling:

• 🔍 Inspect the compressor and springs for damage.
• 📸 Take a photo of the mounting location (useful for warranty).
• 🔄 Make sure that there are no other fasteners near the spacer (sometimes there are several).
• 🧹 Remove metal shavings or debris if they appear.

If everything is in OK, push the refrigerator back into place and plug it in. Let it stand for 2-3 hours before starting it for the first time - this is necessary to stabilize the refrigerant pressure.

Frequent problems and their solutions

Even with careful dismantling, difficulties may arise. Let's look at the most common situations and ways to eliminate them.

The bolt does not unscrew or the edges are torn off

If the bolt head is “slipped”:

1. Try to put a rubber gasket on it (for example, from a bicycle tube) and unscrew it with pliers - the rubber will increase grip.
2. Use an extractor for broken bolts (sold in auto stores).
3. As a last resort, carefully drill out the bolt with a drill of a smaller diameter, but this is risky for the compressor.

The spacer is not removed after unscrewing the bolts

Sometimes the rod “sours” in the grooves. Try:

• 🔨 Lightly tap it with a hammer through a wooden spacer.
• 🛠 Rock the spacer to the sides while pulling towards you.
• 💧 Drop machine oil into the mounting location and wait 10 minutes.

After removing the spacer, the refrigerator vibrates strongly

This may mean that:

• 🔧 Not all bolts have been unscrewed (check again).
• 🔄 The compressor springs are deformed (need replacement).
• 🏠 The refrigerator is not level (adjust the legs).

⚠️ Attention: If, after removing the spacer, the refrigerator makes uncharacteristic sounds (grinding, knocking), immediately unplug it! This may indicate damage to the compressor or fan. Do not turn on the equipment until inspected by a specialist.

What to do if the bolt inside the thread breaks?

If a piece of the bolt breaks off, do not try to unscrew it yourself - contact service. The technician uses a special tool (for example, a left-hand tap sleeve) to carefully remove it. Independent attempts can damage the threads in the refrigerator body, which will lead to expensive repairs.

Features of removing spacers from popular brands

Manufacturers use different designs of clamps. Here's what you need to know about the features of specific brands:

Samsung i LG

In most models of these brands, the spacer is hidden under a plastic cover on the back wall. The lid is secured with 2–4 latches. After removing it, you will see 1-2 screws for a Phillips screwdriver. In refrigerators Samsung with a system Twin Cooling Plus there may be an additional lock for the fan - this also needs to be removed.

Atlant i Indesit

Here the spacer is usually open and secured with 1-2 10 mm bolts. In models Atlant with a top freezer, the bolt can be hidden under a decorative trim. In Indesit sometimes there are plastic clips instead of metal bolts - they need to be carefully snapped off with a screwdriver.

Bosch, Siemens i Liebherr

Premium models of these brands often use a combined system: metal spacer + plastic clamps for tubes. The bolts can be hexagon (size 5 or 6 mm). In refrigerators Liebherr with the function BioFresh sometimes it is necessary to remove the bottom panel, which is attached to 4 screws.

Biryusa, Pozis, Stinol

Budget domestic models often use plastic spacers or clips. They can be removed without tools by simply pulling them towards you. However, be careful—the plastic can be fragile. In refrigerators Stinol old model (before 2015) sometimes there are spacers with left-hand threads - they need to be unscrewed clockwise.

What to do after removing the spacer: first start-up

When the spacer has been successfully removed, do not rush to immediately turn on the refrigerator. Follow these recommendations:

1. Level the refrigerator. Use a level or check visually - the equipment should not swing. Adjust the legs with a key.
2. Wait 2-4 hours. This is necessary to stabilize the oil pressure in the compressor, especially if the refrigerator was transported lying down.
3. Set the temperature. Optimal settings for the first switch on: +4°C in the refrigerator compartment and -18°C in the freezer.
4. Do not load products right away. Let the refrigerator run empty for 1-2 hours to make sure there are no vibrations or extraneous noise.

If after turning on you notice:

• 🔊 Strong vibration - check that all bolts have been removed and that the equipment is level.
• 💨 Hot air from behind is normal, this is how the condenser works.
• ❄️ If the temperature rises for a long time (more than 6 hours), you may need to check the door seal.

⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator does not turn on after removing the spacer or gives an error (for example, E1 or F2), do not try to reboot it repeatedly. This may indicate damage to the compressor during transportation. Contact the service center with photographs of the spacer and bolts.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about transport spacers

Is it possible to turn on the refrigerator without removing the spacer?

No, this will lead to an increased load on the compressor and may cause its failure. In addition, the warranty on the equipment will not be valid if the service center discovers that the spacer has not been removed.

How to understand that the spacer has already been removed?

Inspect the back wall of the refrigerator: if there are no bolts, and the compressor “springs” freely when pressed lightly, then the spacer has been removed. Also check if there are stickers reminding you to remove the fastener.

What to do if you have lost the bolts from the spacer?

This is not critical - the bolts are not needed for the refrigerator to operate. However, if you plan to transport equipment in the future, it is better to keep them or buy similar ones (the size is usually indicated in the instructions).

Is it necessary to remove the spacer on a refrigerator with a linear compressor (for example, LG Inverter Linear)?

Yes, even in models with linear compressors, transport locks are installed at the factory. They must be removed, otherwise vibrations during operation will be higher norms.

Is it possible to remove the spacer without moving the refrigerator away from the wall?

Theoretically, it is possible if you have a very narrow kitchen and long enough arms. But in practice, this is inconvenient and dangerous - there is a high risk of dropping the tool or damaging the pipes.