Transport bolts on an LG refrigerator: how to remove them correctly and what will happen if they are not removed

Have you just purchased a new refrigerator LG and are you ready to connect it? Before connecting the device to the network, be sure to check whether the shipping bolts is removed - this is a critical step that many people forget about. These metal clips hold the compressor springs in place during transport, preventing damage to the compressor. But if you leave them in place, the refrigerator will not only work louder, but also risks breaking down within a few months.

In this article you will find step-by-step instructions for removing bolts for all popular models LG (including series No Frost, Inverter Linear i DoorCooling+), a list of necessary tools and answers to frequently asked questions. We will also look at what mistakes lead to breakdowns, and what to do if the bolts rust or break during dismantling.

Unlike older models, where the transport fasteners were visible from the back, modern refrigerators LG often hide them under decorative panels. This complicates the task for beginners, but our instructions with photos and diagrams will help you cope even without experience. And if you doubt your abilities, at the end of the article there is a checklist for self-test.

Why are shipping bolts needed and why are they required? remove

Transport bolts (also called shock-absorbing clamps) are temporary fasteners that block the moving parts of the compressor during transportation. Their main task is to protect the heart of the refrigerator from shocks, vibrations and sharp tilts that are inevitable during delivery. Without these bolts, the compressor springs could be deformed, and the unit itself could receive critical damage even before the first start-up.

However, after installing the refrigerator in a permanent place, the bolts become not only unnecessary, but dangerous. This is what will happen if they are not removed:

• 🔊 Increased noise: the compressor will vibrate with a vengeance, creating hum, knocking and rattling. This is especially noticeable at night.
• ⚡ Overheating and overload: fixed springs will not be able to absorb vibrations, which will lead to accelerated wear of parts.
• ❌ Compressor failure: after 3-6 months of continuous operation with bolts, the motor may jam or burn out.
• 💸 Loss of warranty: if the service center discovers that the refrigerator was operated with shipping fasteners, warranty repairs will be rejected.

Manufacturer LG always indicates the need to remove bolts in the instructions, but many users skip this point. Meanwhile, even if the refrigerator outwardly works normally, the internal parts may already suffer from increased load. In models with an inverter compressor (for example, LG GC-B247SLQV), the shipping bolts block the system of smooth power control, which leads to jumps in energy consumption by 15-20%.

⚠️ Attention: If you purchased refrigerator LG from your hands or it has already been turned on for several days, do not be lazy to check the back panel for bolts. Even if the previous owner claims that he removed them, it is better to be safe.

Where are the shipping bolts on the LG refrigerator

The location of the bolts depends on the model and year of manufacture of the refrigerator. In most cases, they can be found on the back wall, but in the latest series (2020–2026), the manufacturer began to disguise the fasteners under plastic covers. Here are typical installation locations:

• 🔧 Classic models (for example, LG GA-B489YGQZ): the bolts are immediately visible - they are screwed into the metal plate of the compressor (usually 3-4 pieces).
• 🖼️ Models with a decorative panel (series DoorCooling+): The fastenings are hidden under a removable cover at the bottom of the rear wall. To get to them, you need to snap off 2-3 clamps.
• 🔄 Side-by-Side and multi-door refrigerators (for example, LG GR-B267SLQL): the bolts can be on both the main compressor and the additional one (if the model has two motors).
• 🆕 New inverter models (2023–2026): instead of metal bolts, plastic fasteners are used, which do not need to be unscrewed, but pulled out.

To avoid guessing where to look for fasteners, please pay attention Pay attention to the sticker on the back of the refrigerator. It usually has a diagram with the designation of bolts (an icon in the form of a key or wrench). If there is no sticker, use the table below:

If your model is not listed in the table, look for instructions by the number that begins with LG- or GC- (it is on the nameplate on the back). As a last resort, you can use the universal rule: the bolts are always located next to the compressor - the black cylindrical block at the bottom of the refrigerator.

Preparing for removal: tools and safety precautions

Before you begin dismantling, prepare everything you need. You will need:

• 🔧 Wrench 10 mm (less often - 8 or 12 mm). For models with plastic fasteners, a flat-head screwdriver is suitable.
• 📦 Box or bag for storing bolts - they need to be saved in case of future transportation.
• 🧲 Magnet (optional): will help hold small parts if they fall into hard-to-reach place.
• 🧴 WD-40 or similar lubricant: useful if the bolts are rusty or cannot be unscrewed.
• 📏 Flashlight: lighting on the back wall of the refrigerator is usually insufficient.

Also consider these precautions:

• ⚡ Unplug the refrigerator —even if it has not yet been turned on. This will eliminate the risk of a short circuit due to accidental contact with wires.
• 👶 Work with gloves: sharp edges of metal panels can injure your hands.
• 🚫 Do not tilt the refrigerator more than 40° - this can cause damage compressor or refrigerant pipes.
• 🕒 Allow enough time: the first attempt may take 20-30 minutes, especially if the bolts are stuck.

If your refrigerator has already been in use, before removing bolts, let it stand turned off for 2-3 hours. This is necessary so that the oil in the compressor settles - this way you will reduce the risk of damage to it due to vibrations during operation.

⚠️ Attention: In models LG with a system Smart Diagnosis (for example LG GB-B459PQZL) after removing the bolts, self-diagnosis may work and display error Er FF. This is normal - the error will disappear after the first turn on.

Unplugged the refrigerator from the outlet

Prepared a key and a screwdriver

Freed up space around the refrigerator

Read instructions for your model

Put a soft cloth under the compressor (optional)-->

Step-by-step instructions: how to remove the transport bolts

Now let's move on to the process itself. Follow the instructions strictly step by step to avoid mistakes. If your model has plastic clamps instead of bolts, skip the points related to unscrewing and go to the section about latches.

Step 1. Access to the compressor

Move the refrigerator from the wall 50–60 cm to freely reach the back panel. In models with a removable cover (for example, LG GC-X247CVAQ), press the latches on the sides and remove it. If the cover is secured with screws, unscrew them with a screwdriver.

Step 2. Inspect the bolts

Usually the bolts look like metal rods with a hexagonal head screwed into the compressor plate. They can be coated with an anti-corrosion compound (yellow or blue). In some models, the bolts are covered with plastic caps - they need to be removed manually.

Step 3. Unscrewing

Take a wrench and carefully begin to unscrew the bolts counterclockwise. Do not use excessive force - if the bolt does not budge, spray it WD-40 and wait 5-10 minutes. In models with two compressors (Side-by-Side), start with the right motor.

Step 4. Checking the springs

After removing the last bolt, carefully pull the compressor up and down: it should “play” freely springs If movement is difficult, check to see if there are any unnoticed fasteners.

Step 5. Cleaning and storing bolts

Place the removed bolts in a bag and label it (for example, “Refrigerator Bolts LG GA-B429”). Keep them along with the documents for the equipment - they will be needed again the next time you transport them.

For models with plastic latches (for example, LG GR-N309SLQ):

1. Find the latches on the sides of the compressor (usually white or gray).
2. Press them with a screwdriver or your finger until click.
3. Pull the latch towards you - it should come out without effort.

What to do if the bolt breaks when unscrewing?

If the bolt head breaks off, do not panic. Use a broken bolt extractor or drill a hole in the center of the remainder, then screw the left one into it. tap (tool with reverse thread). In 90% of cases, the fragment will come out without damaging the thread. If you are not confident in your abilities, call a specialist, as incorrect actions can damage the compressor.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even such a simple procedure as removing transportation bolts is fraught with pitfalls. the most common mistakes and their consequences:

• 🔄 Not all bolts have been unscrewed: if you leave at least one, the vibrations of the compressor will be uneven, which will lead to its displacement and damage to the tubes.
• 🔧 Used the wrong key: too large or small a tool size breaks off the edges of the bolt, after which it is difficult to unscrew.
• ⚡ Did not disconnect the refrigerator from the mains: risk of short circuit when the key comes into contact with metal parts.
• 💧 We spilled WD-40 on the wires: grease can damage the insulation, which will lead to breakdown electricity.
• 🗑️ Throw away the bolts after removal: without them it will be impossible to safely transport the refrigerator in the future.

Owners of models with the system need to be especially careful Linear Inverter. In these refrigerators, the compressor is sensitive to the slightest misalignment, so if the bolts are removed unevenly (for example, two on one side and one on the other), this may cause an error Er CH (compressor malfunction).

Another typical problem is rust. If the refrigerator was stored in a warehouse in a damp room, the bolts may “stick.” In this case:

1. Spray the threads generously WD-40 or kerosene.
2. Wait 15–20 minutes.
3. Try to unscrew the bolt by tapping the key with a hammer (easy!).
4. If that doesn’t help, heat the bolt head with a hair dryer (do not overheat the plastic!).

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators LG with function Smart ThinQ (control from a smartphone) after removing the bolts, you may need to reset the settings. To do this, hold down the button Ice Plus for 5 seconds.

What to do after removing the bolts: checking and first switching on

When all the bolts have been successfully removed, do not rush to immediately turn on the refrigerator:

1. inspection

Make sure that:

• 🔍 There are no broken bolts or debris around the compressor.
• 🔌 All wires are in place and not damaged.
• 🟢 The display (if any) is not lit errors.

2. Vibration test

Gently rock the refrigerator back and forth. The compressor should “walk” slightly on the springs, but not knock on the body. If you hear metallic knocks, it means the springs are deformed or not all the bolts have been removed.

3. switching on

Connect the refrigerator to the network and perform the following steps:

1. Set the temperature in the main chamber to +4°C, in the freezer - to -18°C.
2. Close the doors and wait 1-2 hours.
3. Check that the compressor has started (a slight hum should be heard).
4. After 6 hours, check that the desired temperature has reached (use a thermometer).

During the first day of operation, the refrigerator may make unusual sounds - this is normal, as the refrigerant is distributed throughout the system. However, if you... heard:

• 🔊 Loud knocking —the compressor may be touching the housing.
• 💨 Hissing —freon leak (requires calling a technician).
• 🔥 Smell of burning —immediately disconnect the refrigerator from network!

—immediately turn off the device and contact the service center.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about shipping bolts on LG refrigerators

Is it possible to turn on an LG refrigerator without removing the shipping bolts? bolts?

No, absolutely not. Even short-term work with bolts leads to increased load on the compressor. In the best case, the refrigerator will make noise, in the worst case, the motor will burn out in a few months. LG considers this a violation of the operating rules and will refuse warranty repairs.

How long. should there be bolts in an LG refrigerator?

The number depends on the model:

• In most single-chamber and double-chamber refrigerators - 3-4 bolts.
• B Side-by-Side and models with two compressors — 5–6 bolts.
• In new inverter models (2023–2026) — 2–3 bolts + plastic clamps.

The exact quantity is indicated in the instructions for your model.

What to do if, after removing the bolts, the refrigerator vibrates a lot?

Most likely, the problem is not in the bolts, but in an uneven installation. Check:

• 📏 Floor level —the refrigerator should be level (use a building level).
• 🔩 Adjusting feet —they must be screwed all the way.
• 🧲 Magnetic door seals —if they are worn out, the vibration increases.

If the vibration does not disappear after 2-3 days, call a technician to check the compressor springs.

Where to store the bolts after removal?

It is best to put them in a bag along with the documents for the refrigerator and attach them with tape to the back wall (but not to the wires!). Alternative options:

• 📂 In a box from the refrigerator (if it is still there).
• 🔧 In the set of tools that came with the kit.
• 📌 In a box with fasteners (sign the package).

Under no circumstances throw away the bolts! Without them, it will be impossible to safely transport the refrigerator when moving.

Is it possible to install the bolts back before transportation?

Yes, but only if you are confident in your abilities. The algorithm is reverse:

1. Turn off the refrigerator and let it stand for 2-3 hours.
2. Carefully insert the bolts into the holes and tighten them clockwise.
3. Tighten the bolts evenly so as not to distort the compressor.
4. Check that the springs are fully compressed (the compressor should not “play”).

If the refrigerator LG with the system Smart Diagnosisan error may appear after installing the bolts Er dH - this is normal, it will disappear after removing the clamps.