Refridgerator cycles on then off and not cooling. is it the relay or the motherboard?

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Hi!
That is probably the compressor relay
The relay is on the compressor and needs replaced
A relay starts the compressor with a higher voltage and then quickly kicks out
Thats what is happening with yours
Its best for a tech to replace The relay but you can do it
Take your model number to your Local Appliance parts store they will have a diagram
showing you how to install the relay. Its called a hard start relay

Thank you for using fixya
Leo Ponder
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If your refrigerator has a motor start relay, that's where I'd start looking. Otherwise, sorry to say but you've probably got a bad compressor. How old is the unit?

Check your compressor relay- http://www.acmehowto.com/howto/appliance/refrigerator/check/compressorrelay.php

Solution - we bought a new Hotpoint Refridgerator. Sears did not have parts.

sounds like the compressor has seized and the click is the relay starter to get it going. if it is running and getting very hot the likelyhood is that there is a refridgerant leak.

Replace the compressor start relay.

I hope the following helps.

Turn the entire control system off for at least two minutes. This will give the computer module time to reset to factory default. Turn of to desired level after two minutes. Should that not work then there is a problem with the timing relay. They relay is brand specific, meaning take the model number to the parts store for a new one.

Your compressor should be fine. You may also remove the power by unplugging the refrig.

CAUTION: Before removing the relay the power to the fridge must be OFF. Failure to have it in the off postion can cause the new relay to short which can lead to mkore problems. So UNPLUG the fridge, remove the relay, replace the relay and then plug fridge back min. Set control to desired cooling level and wait a couple hours. That should do the trick.. IF not then there is an issue with the processor module.

HI thanks for your question. remove cover to the compressor relay, check for burnt wires. clean all coils. replace the relay. thanks

It has a bad relay on the compressor. Looks like your model is a 50552 Kenmore. If so the part # you need is a 8201799 (start device) cost is $45.96 and you can get it at http://www3.sears.com/ or any local appliance parts house. It is # 16 on this diagram http://www3.sears.com/imaging/ImagePageJava.shtml?productTypeID=0165000&brandID=0582&modelDesc=SIDE-BY-SIDE%20REFRIGERATOR&modelNumber=10650552000&documentID=P0070128&documentTypeID=PLDM&documentClassCode=PM&titleType=UNIT&titleID=00011&

If the compressor has a fan next to it, be sure it is running. if the relay is clicking every few minutes it may need to be replced. contact local parts distributor.