Compressor Start Relay

Took the back cover off, to the left of the big round compressor there is a black box where inside is the relay/ switch, the thin strap has to be pushed in on the center to get the ends to lift enough to put flat blade under and pop off. You have to pry off rely/switch it has 2 pin that connect it, keep track witch side of the switch the wire goes on, my old switch only had one connection the new has 2, then put back together in reverse order

The refrigerator and freezer compartments lights work properly. The evaporator and condenser fan motors work properly. According to this site, the Compressor Relay had an 11% chance of fixing the problem while the Electronic Main Control Board had an 87% chance of fixing the problem. Since the refrigerator is 13 years old and the compressor start relay cost $8, I replaced the relay first. It did not fix the problem. Then, I inspected the Main Control Board. The front side did not show any sign of distress. I carefully removed the Control Board and checked the back side. I found a burnt spot the size of a dog flee. The short circuit spark jumped the 1/2" gap between the back of the Main Control Board and the cabinet metal surface and slightly discolored/blackened the metal cabinet. The new Main Control Board has been redesigned, is much more substantial, heavier and stiffer. One wiring connector orientation was changed from side facing to front facing to ease the installation. A ground wire was added to the Main Control Board. I was surprised to see that the old Control Board did not incorporate a ground strap. The refrigerator power cord was plugged in and the refrigerant compressor started a few second later. The thermometer placed in the freezer compartment read - 3 degrees F two and one-half hours later. Thank you for your very informative website consisting of troubleshooting by symptoms and detailed repair video. From a very satisfied customer. Thank you.