Refrigeration question

[Fire708]

For you guys that know refrigeration.

I have a friend that may be willing to sell an early '70s v63. He said the machine "doesn't get as cold as it used to, just needs freon." He did say that the soda still gets cold enought to drink.

If I read the posts here correctly the system will either get cold or not since it's sealed and pressurized. I'm thinking that if it cools some then there's a different problem like the thermostat or gunked up condeser fins stopping airflow.

Am I on the right track?

[johnieG]

Hey! They all get cold when it's 0-degrees outside!

Yes, it could be a leak, or a bad evap' fan/motor. possibly an over current protector cutting out & short cycling the compressor.. you get the idea, you can't tell until you have it in hand.  if it doesn't work right, adjust your offer accordingly. 

[Fire708]

Well, western WA is sticking in the 40's this year. You Midwesterners are hogging all the snow!

I'll have him plug it in and go take a look.

Thank you!

[cohammer]

You never know , sometime the shot of freon can mean its already shot.

[MoonDawg]

 He did say that the soda still gets cold enought to drink.

       An inexpensive refrigeration thermometer ($5.00) can be bought at Lowes and has clear markings at 32 to 40 degrees. Very handy.
       Does it ever reach this temperature?  Does it ever shut itself off?  Does the evaporator ice up anywhere?  Is the fan motor working?

[Fire708]

Well, not sure. I haven't been able to talk with him for a few weeks. I'll make sure to check that stuff once I get ahold of him. I'm planning on having him plug it in and then I'll stop by the next day to see how it runs etc.

Thanks again for all your tips! It really helps.