95 Casita fridge ??

[James Davis]

The top left hinge screws are loose on the refrigerator in my 1995 Freedom Deluxe. The screws are not accessible, so I would like to know a couple of things.

First, do the rivets in the face flange of the fridge have a backing strip on the inside so reinstallation will have a strong surface for the rivets to bite?

Second, if I drill the rivets, can I get the fridge out of the compartment far enough to tighten the hinge screws without disconnecting things at the back? I think it would have to slide out a couple of inches.

Thanks,

JIm

[frankcfx]

What make and model refrigerator do you have with the hinge problem??

[James Davis]

It's a Dometic, RM 2202

Thanks for asking.

[James Davis]

Just heard from Casita. It seems I can drill the rivets, then remove three screws from the back of the fridge and tilt it enough to tighten the hinge screws.

But the didn't give me any perspective about replacing the rivets when I put it back...

[James Davis]

Removed screws at back, sheared rivet heads with a sharp wood chisel, tipped fridge out at top, tightened hinge screw, replaced rivets and screws--all good again. Very easy.

I replaced the two long Philipps head screws at the back bottom with hex heads, which are much easier to install with a 1/4' drive ratchet. Recommend that change to anyone doing this procedure.

[Borrego Dave]

Originally Posted by James Davis

Removed screws at back, sheared rivet heads with a sharp wood chisel, tipped fridge out at top, tightened hinge screw, replaced rivets and screws--all good again. Very easy.

I replaced the two long Philipps head screws at the back bottom with hex heads, which are much easier to install with a 1/4' drive ratchet. Recommend that change to anyone doing this procedure.

Glad you got it fixed and thanks for the screw head change tip, makes great sense.

[David B.]

Originally Posted by Borrego Dave

Glad you got it fixed and thanks for the screw head change tip, makes great sense.

I always try to use a medium strength thread locker or even some elmers glue on the threads of any screws that have a propensity for loosening up.
Dave & Paula