[Brian Raffey]

Compressor runs quiet and fridge cools good. There is a loud mechanical clunk when the fridge shuts off. it has been making this noise for about a year. I checked the compressor when it's running and shut off. It will make the same noise if it is tapped on the side, running or shut off. Seems like there is something loose inside that can easily touch the outer enclosure and make the loud clunking noise. Is this an indication that the compressor needs replacing? Compressor is made by Matsushita Refrigeration Company USA, model DA51C72RCU6. I have the spec sheet for the compressor.

[PS Staff - Sheila]

Yes the only way to fix this is to replace the compressor.

This can only be done by a qualified technician.

You should check the warranty with Sears.

[braffey]

It seems that the cause of noise is loose or broken springs in the sealed unit. Will the compressor eventually fail as a result of this ?

[PS Staff - Sheila]

Yes it will fail at some time but I have known them to run for years this way.