On Mon, 25 Aug 2008 09:02:24 -0400, Bob wrote:

dgk wrote:
I'm guessing, with no real knowledge, that the compressor went. There
was a burning smell, the fuse blew, and when I ran an extension to the
refrigerator to get that working, smoke came from the big black thing
at the bottom. So, I'm guessing compressor. Is that likely?

If so, a new compressor is around $180, much cheaper than a new
refrig. The parts guy (Sears) says that anyone can replace the
compressor, that I can get a do-it-yourself guide for $15.

A new model would be around $600 and a big pain. Is replacing a
compressor so hard?
new ones are more efficient. how old iis it?

Thanks to everyone for answering. I'll send the compressor back; I
know nothing about HVAC. The dead refrig is around 9 years old,
reasonably efficient but not worth trying to fix.

I guess, like everythjing else, Sears is not what it once was.

I'll look for a reasonably priced used one but transportation is a
huge issue there. It needs to be about free.

I'll also check with a local non-big box dealer and ask them to check
out the refrig or sell me a new one.