SMAD Mechanical Obstruction or Failing Motor

Loud grinding or rattling noise during ice-making cycle.

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Ice jam in ice shovel or rake, worn ice sweep motor, loose fan blade, compressor mounting vibration

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety: Unplug the ice maker before reaching into moving parts or removing panels.

Steps:

  • Check ice-making chamber: Open the lid and inspect the ice shovel/rake and evaporator area for jammed or oversized ice. Remove any stuck cubes.
  • Inspect sweep motor: Manually move the ice shovel or rake. If it binds or feels rough, the ice sweep motor or gearbox may be failing.
  • Secure fan and panels: Remove the rear panel and check that the condenser fan blade is tight on its shaft and not hitting any shrouds. Tighten loose screws on panels and compressor mounting brackets.
  • Test run: Reassemble and run the unit with the cover on. If grinding persists from the sweep mechanism, replace the ice sweep motor assembly.
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Repair Difficulty

Medium 3/5

Required Part

Ice Sweep Motor / Condenser Fan Blade
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