Removing shelves from the refrigerator door Atlant seems like a simple task - until you encounter jammed fasteners, hidden fasteners or the risk of damaging the seal. Unlike main camera shelves, door holders often have a unique design, depending on the model and year of manufacture of the equipment. For example, in series MHM 1708 and XM 4426 plastic latches are used, and in Atlant MX 2835 threaded metal pins are used.
Errors during dismantling can result in chipped plastic, deformation of the rubber seal, or even broken fasteners. This is especially true for refrigerators older than 5 years, where plastic becomes brittle over time. In this article, we will analyze a step-by-step algorithm for different types of fastenings, tell you how to avoid typical problems, and give tips on reinstallation. And if your model is equipped electronic display on the door we will separately dwell on the nuances of working with wiring.
Preparation: what needs to be done before removing the shelves
Before starting dismantling, make sure that the refrigerator unplugged. This is not only a safety issue, but also to prevent the compressor from accidentally turning on during work - vibration can move the shelves and complicate the process. Also prepare:
- 🔧 Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers (for models with screw fastenings).
- 🧴 Silicone grease or WD-40 - if the shelves are “stuck” to the guides.
- 📸 Phone for photographing the location of the shelves (useful during reassembly).
- 🧤 Soft cloth gloves - to avoid leaving fingerprints on the chrome parts.
Empty the door of all products and containers. Make sure there are no sticky spots on the shelves as they can make removal difficult. If the door seal is glued to the body (valid for models up to 2018), cover it with masking tape so as not to tear it off during dismantling.
⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator is equipped with a system No Frost, wait until the shelves are full before removing the shelves. thawing of ice on the door. Attempting to remove shelves while ice is present can damage the plastic or break the mounts.
Types of shelf mounts on the door Atlant: how to determine yours
The design of the shelf holders depends from series and year of manufacture refrigerator. Here are the main options that are found in models Atlant:
| Mounting type | Refrigerator models | Removal features |
|---|---|---|
| Plastic latches | MHM 1708, MHM 1840, XM 4024 | The shelf is fixed on the guides using flexible “ears”. Gentle pressure from below is required. |
| Metal pins | MX 2835, MX 2840, XM 6025 | The pins are screwed into the door. A screwdriver is needed, thread corrosion is possible. |
| Combined (pins + latches) | New models after 2020 | The upper part is attached to pins, the lower part is attached to latches. Dismantling in two stages. |
| Magnetic latches | Premium series with touch panels | Shelves are held on magnets. It is enough to pull towards you with a force of ~5 kg. |
To accurately determine the type of fastening, inspect the sides of the shelf: if plastic “ears” are visible, these are latches; if metal heads are pins. In models with electronic display (for example, Atlant XM 6324-100), shelves are often mounted on combined holders, where the upper part is fixed with screws and the lower part with latches.
How to check the type of fastening without removing the shelf?
Gently pull the shelf towards you. If it moves 1–2 mm and comes back, these are magnetic latches. If it doesn’t move at all, it’s most likely screw fastenings. Plastic latches usually make a slight click when pressed.
Step-by-step instructions: removing shelves with plastic latches
This type of fastening is the most common in budget and mid-price models. Atlant. The main difficulty is not to break the fragile plastic “ears”, which lose their elasticity over time. Follow the algorithm:
- Find the latches. They are located on the sides of the shelf at the bottom (usually 2-3 latches on each side).
- Press the latches. Use a flat screwdriver or a fingernail to carefully bend the “ears” simultaneously on both sides.
- Pull the shelf up. After clicking, it should come out of the grooves. If it does not give in, check that all the latches are pressed out.
- Remove the guides. In some models (for example, MHM 1840) after removing the shelf, plastic slides remain - they can also be dismantled by pulling them towards you.
If the latches do not press out, do not use excessive force. Spray them WD-40 and wait 5-10 minutes. In old refrigerators, the plastic may crack - in this case, you will have to replace the shelf or latches (part numbers are indicated in FAQ).
Disconnect the refrigerator from the mains|
Take photographs of the location of the shelves|
Press all the latches at the same time|
Pull shelf straight up, without distortions|
Check the integrity of the seal after dismantling-->
⚠️ Attention: In models Atlant XM 4426 i XM 4626 the upper shelf of the door is attached to additional metal hook. disconnect, the shelf will get stuck when removed. The hook is located under the decorative trim - pry it off with a screwdriver.
Removing shelves on metal pins: nuances for models MX i HM
Metal fastenings are more reliable than plastic ones, but require care when unscrewing. In refrigerators Atlant MX 2835, MX 2840 and similar series the pins often stick to the threads due to condensation. To remove the shelf:
- Give access to the pins. In some models they are closed with decorative caps - pry them off with a knife.
- Choose a screwdriver. Usually a cross (
PH2) is used, but in older models a flat one may be required. - Treat the thread. If the pin does not budge, apply
WD-40or kerosene, wait 15 minutes. - Unscrew it counterclockwise. Hold the shelf with your other hand so that it does not fell after loosening the fastening.
In models Atlant XM 6025 i XM 6324 the lower pins have a left-hand thread - they need to be unscrewed clockwise. If the thread is broken, do not try to unscrew the pin by force - it is better to drill it with a drill and drill bit 3–4 mmand then install a new one (article number 6110-000012 for most series).
After dismantling, inspect the holes in the door for rust. If there is any, clean it with sandpaper (P120) and treat it with an anti-corrosion compound. This will prevent sticking again during installation.
Features of dismantling in refrigerators with an electronic display
In premium models Atlant (for example, XM 6324-100 or XM 6026-080) the door is equipped with a touch panel and wiring that runs along the shelves. It is important here:
- 🔌 Do not pull the shelves sharply —you can break the contacts of the temperature sensors.
- 📶 Disconnect the connectors before removing (they are located under the decorative panel).
- 🔧 Use a plastic mediator to spin latches - metal tools can damage the printed circuit board.
Procedure:
- Remove the decorative overlay of the display (it is attached with latches or double-sided tape).
- Disconnect the connectors wiring (usually this
JST 2.0orMolex). - Remove the shelves, starting from the bottom - this is easier to avoid door skewing.
If after removing the shelves the display stops working, check the integrity of the cable. In 80% of cases, the problem is solved by reconnecting the connectors. If artifacts appear on the screen (strips, flickering), the board is most likely damaged - a replacement will be required (the original module for XM 6324 costs ~3,500 rubles).
Typical errors and how to avoid them
Even with the apparent simplicity of the process, users often make mistakes that lead to breakdowns. Here are the most. common:
- 🔨 Using inappropriate tools. For example, trying to unscrew the pins with pliers instead of a screwdriver leads to the edges breaking.
- 🔄 Failure to follow the dismantling procedure. In models with combined fastenings, first remove the upper screws, then press out the lower ones latches.
- 🧊 Work at low temperatures. If the refrigerator has just been defrosted, the plastic becomes brittle - it is better to wait 1-2 hours.
- 🔌 Ignoring the wiring. In models with a display, broken contacts can damage the electronic block.
Another common problem is the door is skewed after incorrect installation of the shelves. This happens if:
- The shelves are installed asymmetrically (for example, the top one is shifted to the left, and the bottom one to the right).
- Not all fasteners are tightened (important for metal pins).
- The guides are damaged (cracks or deformation).
To avoid distortion, use a level when reassembling. If the door still begins to close. loosely, adjust its position using a 4 mm hexagon (instructions are in FAQ).
Reverse installation: how to return the shelves to their place
Installing shelves is the reverse process of dismantling, but with several nuances:
- Check the integrity of the seal. If it is deformed, warm it up with a hairdryer (
40–50°C) and return it to its original state shape. - Start with the bottom shelf. This will make it easier to align the rest.
- For plastic latches: Insert the shelf into the grooves and press until all latches click. snapped into place.
- For metal pins: screw them in without force so as not to strip the thread. At the end, tighten slightly with a screwdriver.
After installation, check:
- 🔹 Door closure tightness (use
sheet of paper- it should hold if the seal is working). - 🔹 No play of shelves (shake them with your hand).
- 🔹 Display performance (if any).
If the shelf does not lock, the guides may be worn out. In this case, they can be replaced (the kit for Atlant MHM costs ~800 rubles) or use universal silicone inserts (article number 6110-000045). They compensate for play and prevent rattling.
⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators with the system No Frost after installing the shelves, turn on mode Super Cool for 2 hours. This will help distribute the cold evenly and avoid icing of the door.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about removing shelves in refrigerators Atlant
Is it possible to remove shelves without disconnecting the refrigerator from network?
Technically it is possible, but not recommended.. Vibration from a running compressor can move the shelves during dismantling, which will lead to jamming of the fasteners. In addition, there is a risk of electric shock when working with metal tools near the refrigerator body.
How to remove a shelf if the plastic fastener is broken?
If the “ear” of the latch has broken off, but the shelf is still held on by the remaining fasteners:
- Carefully pry the shelf on the opposite side of the broken fastener.
- Use plastic spatula to evenly lift the shelf.
- After removal, replace the broken lock (article for MHM 1708 —
6110-000038).
If the shelf is stuck, do not try to break it - it is better to contact a service center.
Where to buy spare clamps or pins for shelves?
Original parts can be ordered:
- On the website Atlant in the "Spare parts" section.
- In stores like "220 Volt" or "Techport".
- On AliExpress (search by article, for example,
6110-000012for pins).
The cost of one clamp is from 50 to 200 rubles, a set of pins is ~500 rubles.
How to adjust the door if it is skewed after installing the shelves?
To adjust:
- Open the door and find the adjustment screws in the upper and lower hinges (usually under the decorative caps).
- Use
4 mm hexagonto adjust the position: - Clockwise - the door rises.
- Counterclockwise - lowers.
If the adjustment does not help, the hinges may be deformed - they will have to be replaced.
Can removed shelves be washed in the dishwasher?
Depends on the material:
- 🔹 Glass shelves (found in models Atlant Premium) - can be washed in PMM at temperatures up to
50°C. - 🔹 Plastic shelves - only hand washing with a mild detergent High temperature deforms. plastic.
Before washing, remove the rubber seals (if any) and take out the guides.