ApplianceField Lab
Field evidence

The Optics Board Was Not Shown on the Refrigerator Diagram

For KBRC36FTS08, the field discussion identified W10757851 as the ice-maker emitter/receiver board. The finding still needs model-and-serial verification before ordering.

Built In Refrigerator Ice Maker KitchenAid kbrc36fts08

Why normal parts lookup failed

The technician searched Sears, Service Matters and Whirlpool support without finding the bottom-freezer ice-maker optics on the expected diagram. Photos of the installed boards and the exact refrigerator model were then used to identify the assembly from another view.

A similar symptom can have a different cause on another refrigerator. This page identifies a component research trail; it does not establish that an optics board caused a no-ice fault.

The freezer optics location where the emitter and receiver monitor the ice bin.
The freezer optics location where the emitter and receiver monitor the ice bin.
The optics emitter illuminated during inspection of the W10757851 board path.
The optics emitter illuminated during inspection of the W10757851 board path.

What was learned about W10757851 replacements

The discussion named Whirlpool W10757851. A low-cost aftermarket version was available, but technicians reported that some non-OEM boards distorted in the cold and lost alignment or placed a capacitor where the board could not sit correctly.

An aftermarket board was considered acceptable for a diagnostic comparison, while an OEM part was sometimes required for reliable fit. The opening case did not report installation or a final result.

What to verify before ordering

  1. Confirm KBRC36FTS08 and the complete serial range.
  2. Compare emitter and receiver housings, connectors and mounting orientation.
  3. Check the current supersession for W10757851.
  4. Verify optical alignment after installation and after the compartment returns to temperature.
Electrical safety: disconnect power before handling ice-maker optics or control wiring. Do not defeat the optical interlock or test exposed boards while energized.
Parts changed, problem stayed

A replacement that did not solve the fault

Includes a recorded replacement that did not help GE Café Dispenser Flap Opens When the Lower Door Closes A GE Café dispenser flap opens when a lower door closes. Failed boards and dispenser parts gave way to a confirmed embedded door-switch fault.
Unexpected turn

A repair that did not follow the obvious path

An unusual turn supported by the case record Viking VGSC3074BSS Overheated After a New Thermostat A Viking VGSC3074BSS climbed toward 500°F after a new thermostat. The failed replacement shifted diagnosis to selector and self-clean control branches.
Fresh field notes

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