Capillary tube

The capillary tube is the metering device that sets the evaporator’s feed rate. When it’s restricted (moisture, debris) or kinked during service, the ice machine can look like it’s “not cooling” even though the compressor runs. Expect long freeze times, low suction pressure, hot compressor shell temps, and a frost pattern that stops short of the evaporator. A restricted cap tube often leaves the compressor running hot while the evaporator stays partially frosted classic “runs but not cooling” behavior. Field checks should include a visual inspection for sharp bends and abrasion points, plus performance confirmation with superheat/subcool readings. A restricted cap tube often shows a noticeable temperature drop right at the restriction and unstable suction as the system tries to feed. If the drier has been compromised, restriction here becomes even more likely. Feel for a sharp temperature drop at the cap tube inlet; that spot is where wax, moisture, or debris is throttling flow. Replacing the capillary tube solves the problem by restoring the designed refrigerant flow into the evaporator. With proper metering, the evaporator loads evenly, suction stabilizes, and the machine can build a full slab without the controller timing out or producing undersized cubes. It’s a foundational fix when cleaning and airflow checks don’t explain the symptoms. Capillary tube 1805000410 should be routed to avoid vibration rub points; even small kinks can change metering and swing superheat. After installation, treat it like sealed-system work: new drier as needed, deep evacuation, and charge verification. Once the charge is correct, you should see repeatable freeze times and normal harvest behavior instead of intermittent “not cooling” complaints. After sealing-system work, verify superheat isn’t extreme and that ice thickness control responds normally across several cycles.