I have a GE Profile Arctica side by side (PSS26NGPB). The problem is that at least 50% of the time, the ice dispenser gets jammed and won't push the cubes out. The other 50% of the time it works fine.

To "fix" it, I pull out the ice bin, rearrange the ice, maybe rotate the auger a little, and push it back in. This seems to be a straight mechanical issue. If it happened less frequently I would not bother about it, but having a problem 50+% of the time is not a good thing.

This is not a problem with the ice maker (one of the newer style with a switch and LED on the front) as there is plenty of ice in the bin. I also don't think its an electronic type problem I've read about in this forum as it is does not trip the power, the water comes out fine, the light comes one, etc.

In more detail: when the front lever is pushed calling for ice to be dispensed, I hear the motor come on and hear the auger moving. I also hear bumping of cubes and other sounds. Then the auger stops and I hear the motor humming as it fights to continue to turn it. Sometimes the motor/auger wins and it continues to dispense ice. Mostly, it is just jammed somewhere by one or more cubes. This happens using either the cubes or crushed modes.

Looking at the ice bin, I notice a round piece of plastic (cap?) in the back is around the auger and that rotates with the auger. I think it is there just so ice does not fall out the back of the bin, and this is what the motor prongs engages to turn the auger. There does seem to be a lot of "slop" to the auger and plastic (cap) in that I can move it forwards & backwards a little, and up and down especially in the back where the round plastic "cap" is. Is this normal?

So, any ideas on how to proceed with my little problem? If this is a normal part wear issue that's fine, but I don't have a clue of what to replace other than the whole ice bin (repairclinic.com #1066440 $109.50). My wife says she wants a new refrigerator since this one is broke. This could be a VERY expensive ice maker. Help please.

Hi Jim,

Yes, It just sounds like your bucket/auger assembly is just worn out.

No, there shouldn't be a lot of "slop" just a very small amount.

If for some reason the new bucket/auger assembly doesn't fix it, we have a special program here when you order it through our site, you have 30 days to return it for a FULL refund, minus shipping.

Jake

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Jake's Appliance Repair Nov. 2005-present

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I guess I could just replace the plastic drive cup (#1057467) at the rear of the dispenser (only $28 for a little piece of plastic!), but I think I will bite the bullet and buy the whole unit for only $109. That way, if anything else needs replacement, I'm covered.

So, how do I order through your site? Do I just click on "Look-up and Order parts" and that takes me to RepairClinic.com? Will this get you "credit" for the sale?

Yes to both questions.

Or you can just click this link I made for you to order it:
repairclinic.com #1066440 $109.50

Jake

__________________
Appliance Repair School 1987-1988
Star Appliance Tech. 2 yrs. 1988-1990
Wards Appliance Tech. 11 yrs. 1990-2001
Sears Appliance Tech. 4 yrs. 2001-Oct. 2005
Jake's Appliance Repair Nov. 2005-present

If you need more repair advice help on your appliance, click Here

Look-Up & Order Parts

Shop Home Appliances