W11347840 Whirlpool ICE CONTNR OEM is an ice container (ice storage bin) assembly designed for use in compatible Whirlpool refrigeration units.As a dedicated storage receptacle for cubed or crushed ice produced by an automatic ice maker, the component is typically a molded plastic bin with mounting features and interfaces that align with the ice maker module and, where applicable, the dispenser/auger assembly.
Inside the appliance, the ice container’s primary role is to collect and retain ice produced by the ice maker, provide a controlled feed to the dispenser mechanism, and prevent backflow or jamming between the ice maker and the auger/dispenser chute. It therefore interacts directly with the ice maker ejector fingers, the auger motor or conveyor that moves ice to the dispenser, the dispenser actuator or door, and any ice-level sensing device used to control production. Proper fit, orientation, and unobstructed clearances are vital to ensure reliable handoff of ice and to avoid mechanical interference or sensor misreading that can affect ice production or dispensing.
In this article readers will find a detailed explanation of the W11347840 ice container’s function and design features, data on model compatibility and how to verify fitment, common failure symptoms (such as ice jams, irregular dispensing, or incorrect ice-level detection), step-by-step troubleshooting guidance to isolate container-related faults, and practical replacement considerations including removal/installation cautions and checks to perform after replacement. The goal is to provide technicians, engineers, and appliance owners with the technical context needed to assess, maintain, or replace the ice container safely and effectively.
Table of Contents
- Function and Role of the Ice Container in whirlpool Refrigeration Systems
- How the W11347840 Whirlpool ICE CONTNR OEM Operates and Interfaces with the Ice Maker and Dispensing Mechanisms
- Common Failure Symptoms and Diagnostic Indicators of a Faulty Ice Container Assembly
- Compatibility, Replacement Considerations, and step-by-Step Installation and Troubleshooting Procedures for the W11347840 Ice Container
- Q&A
- Future Outlook
Function and Role of the Ice container in Whirlpool Refrigeration Systems
The W11347840 Whirlpool ICE CONTNR OEM functions as the mechanical interface that stores, protects, and delivers ice from the built-in ice maker to the dispenser or interior bin. Its molded geometry and internal baffles guide individual cubes toward the auger or outlet, reduce cube bridging, and isolate the ice mass from direct freezer airflow to limit frost accretion.Designed as an OEM replacement, the container includes specific mounting ears, sensor openings and clearance for the drive shaft or auger assembly so that cube flow and dispense timing remain consistent with the refrigerator’s control logic.
Compatibility depends on correct alignment of mounting tabs,sensor cutouts and the auger-drive engagement; installing a container with mismatched dimensions or missing features can produce symptoms such as intermittent dispensing,auger jams or excessive icing inside the bin. Technicians should verify physical fit and inspect the container for hairline cracks, distorted tabs, or obstructive debris during service. Regular practical maintenance examples include clearing compacted ice with an approved tool, ensuring the dispenser actuator clearance is free of obstructions, and confirming the cube sensor (if present) sees unobstructed surfaces for accurate fill control.
- Primary functions: storage, guidance, and isolation of ice cubes.
- Key interfaces: auger/drive shaft, fill-level sensor opening, mounting tabs.
- Common service signs: rattling, flow restriction, or freeze-bridging inside the bin.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Part | W11347840 Whirlpool ICE CONTNR OEM – OEM replacement ice storage and delivery container |
| Material | Typically injection-molded thermoplastic (ABS or polypropylene), resistant to low-temperature embrittlement |
| Approximate capacity | Holds roughly 3-4 lb (1.4-1.8 kg) of ice depending on cube size and packing |
| Common issues | Misalignment with auger, broken mounting tabs, ice bridging, and debris-induced jams |
How the W11347840 Whirlpool ICE CONTNR OEM Operates and Interfaces with the ice Maker and Dispensing Mechanisms
The W11347840 Whirlpool ICE CONTNR OEM serves as the receptacle and transfer interface between the refrigerator’s ice maker and the dispensing mechanism. It is indeed a molded container that locates under the ice maker assembly, positions ice for the auger or ejector, and provides the mechanical openings and guides necessary for reliable engagement of the dispensing drive.The container does not typically contain active electronics; rather it provides precise geometry-mounting tabs, a lower auger coupling opening, and a feed chute-that must align with the ice maker ejector and the dispenser motor so cubes are picked up and moved to the chute without binding.
- Mounting and alignment features: upper/lower tabs and locating bosses for correct seating.
- Interface openings: auger/ejector coupling port and feed chute for cube transfer.
- Material and serviceability: molded polymer design for low thermal conduction and easy inspection/cleaning.
In practical use, technicians should verify that the container is fully seated and that the feed chute and coupling opening are free of compacted ice or broken cube shards, because misalignment or obstructions are the most common causes of dispensing failures and unusual noises. typical troubleshooting steps include removing the container to inspect the interior and the auger engagement point, checking for warped tabs or cracked walls that prevent a proper seal with the freezer cavity, and clearing ice bridges by manually breaking up clumps or performing a controlled defrost. Confirm the container mates with the refrigerator’s mounting pattern and the ice maker type before replacement to ensure correct mechanical interface and reliable operation.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary function | Collects and positions ice for the auger/ejector and routes cubes to the dispenser chute |
| Interface points | Mounting tabs, auger/ejector coupling port, feed chute alignment |
| Common failure modes | Ice bridging, cracked/warped mounts, misalignment preventing auger engagement |
Common Failure Symptoms and Diagnostic Indicators of a Faulty Ice Container Assembly
The W11347840 Whirlpool ICE CONTNR OEM acts as the structural and functional interface between the ice-making assembly and the dispenser/auger system. It collects frozen product from the evaporator grid, channels ice to the auger, and provides mounting surfaces and sensor locations (thermistor, full-cup switch, and door-actuated switches) required by the refrigerator control logic.When the container is cracked, warped, or improperly seated, water can bypass intended drainage paths, causing frost accumulation, ice bridging, or physical obstruction of the auger; mismatched mounting or connector pinouts on non-OEM replacements will produce intermittent harvest cycles or sensor faults. For technicians, verifying that the part number and physical interfaces match the appliance model reduces diagnostic ambiguity and ensures the container will behave predictably with the existing auger motor, sensor harnesses, and shroud geometry.
Common failure symptoms and diagnostic indicators include mechanical damage, ice bridging, abnormal motor load, and inconsistent sensor readings. A practical diagnostic sequence starts with a visual and mechanical inspection for cracks, deformations, and foreign debris, followed by manual rotation of the auger to confirm free movement. Electrical checks include measuring auger motor current under no-load and loaded conditions and verifying sensor continuity and resistance against OEM specifications; elevated motor current or stalling indicates jamming or increased friction, while thermistor/resistor values outside expected ranges indicate false temperature inputs that alter harvest timing. Service examples: a hairline crack at a lower corner often produces slow leaks and frost rings along the shroud, while recessed fasteners or a misaligned top lip commonly result in intermittent dispenser actuator engagement and false “ice full” signals.
- Visible cracks or warping – leaks, frost buildup, and auger obstruction
- Ice bridging or clumping – dispenser fails to advance ice, high auger torque
- Abnormal auger motor draw or stalling – mechanical jam or increased friction
- Erratic thermistor or switch readings – incorrect harvest timing or false fullness
- Mounting/connector mismatch – intermittent electrical faults or poor fit
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Cracked housing | Causes water leaks, localized frost buildup, and auger interference; inspect seams and corners. |
| Auger overload | High current draw or motor stall indicates jam, ice bridging, or abrasive wear on the container bore. |
| sensor/thermistor fault | Out-of-range resistance or intermittent continuity alters harvest cycles and fullness detection. |
Compatibility, Replacement Considerations, and Step-by-Step Installation and Troubleshooting Procedures for the W11347840 Ice container
The W11347840 Whirlpool ICE CONTNR OEM is the molded ice storage bin that interfaces directly with the refrigerator’s ice maker and dispenser assembly. It functions as the containment and feed path for produced ice, aligning with the dispenser actuator, auger/drive gear, and any ice-level sensors. Compatibility is determined by the housing footprint: check the location and shape of snap tabs, the dispenser opening geometry, and sensor cutouts rather than relying solely on model family names. Technicians should confirm physical fit and actuator engagement on candidate replacements; the same part commonly fits several Whirlpool/Kenmore platforms that share the icemaker/dispenser chassis, but trim variations or retrofit kits can alter clearance and require either minor bracket adjustment or an alternate part number.
Installation and troubleshooting center on mechanical alignment, containment integrity, and interface checks with the ice-delivery components. Typical service tasks include isolating power, removing the old bin, inspecting for cracks or deformation that allow jamming or leaks, verifying the auger/drive coupling and dispenser actuator engagement, and confirming that any ice-level sensor or heater strip sits in its designed position. If the bin is correctly seated but problems persist (jamming, underfill, or continuous harvest), verify auger motor function and harvest cycle operation, clear ice bridges by warming or manual clearing, and replace the bin if mounting tabs are broken or if the feed geometry is distorted beyond simple adjustment.
- Power off and remove bin: disconnect mains, lift bin out, and inspect tabs and sealing surfaces.
- Inspect and clean mating surfaces: remove ice bridges, check auger coupling and actuator alignment.
- Confirm fit: align tabs to mounting slots, ensure sensor cutouts and dispenser opening are unobstructed.
- Test cycle: restore power, run a manual harvest/dispense cycle, and observe auger engagement and ice flow.
- Troubleshoot remaining faults: check auger motor continuity, actuator switch, and thermistor/readings before replacing control components.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Material | High-density molded polymer resistant to low-temperature embrittlement |
| Mounting | Snap-tab slots aligning with icemaker chassis and dispenser opening |
| Compatibility | Multiple Whirlpool/Kenmore platforms sharing the same dispenser/ icemaker chassis – verify physical tab geometry |
| Common symptoms | Ice jams, leakage, improper auger engagement, or misaligned dispenser actuator |
Q&A
What is the W11347840 Whirlpool ICE CONTNR OEM?
The W11347840 is an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) replacement ice container/ice bucket used in select Whirlpool-family refrigerators.It is indeed the removable bin that collects and stores ice produced by the refrigerator’s ice maker and frequently enough interfaces with the dispenser or auger assembly.
how do I know if the ice container needs to be replaced?
Replace the ice container if it is cracked or warped (causing leaks or dropped ice), if ice continually jams the dispenser due to a deformed shape, or if the bin’s engagement features (tabs or coupler area) are broken and no longer allow proper connection to the auger/drive. Visible damage,persistent ice clumping that isn’t solved by cleaning,or a lose/misaligned bin are also signs a replacement may be required.
Which refrigerator models is this part compatible with?
compatibility varies by model and production date. W11347840 is an OEM part used on multiple Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid and JennAir refrigerators, but you must confirm fit by checking your refrigerator’s full model number and cross-referencing it with the part listing on the manufacturer’s parts site or an authorized parts dealer before ordering.
How do I install the W11347840 ice container?
General installation steps: 1) remove any ice from the bin and open the freezer door.2) Pull the old bin straight out (note how it engages with the auger/drive or dispenser). 3) if required, transfer any sensor brackets or labels to the new bin. 4) Align the new bin so the drive coupler or tabs mate with the auger/dispenser and slide it fully into place until it seats. 5) Test by dispensing a small amount of ice or by running a diagnostic dispense cycle. Refer to your refrigerator’s service manual for model-specific details.
Do I need tools or should I disconnect power to replace the ice container?
Most replacements require no special tools-the bin typically slides in and out by hand. For safety, it’s recommended to turn off the ice maker or disconnect power to the refrigerator if you will be working near electrical components or the auger motor. If you must remove screws or fasteners to transfer sensors or brackets, a basic screwdriver might potentially be needed.
Can the ice container be cleaned in the dishwasher?
Most ice containers should be cleaned by hand using warm water and mild dish soap; abrasive cleaners or vrey hot dishwashers can deform or cloud the plastic. Remove ice before cleaning, rinse thoroughly to remove detergent residue, and air dry completely before reinstalling to avoid clumping or contamination.
what’s the advantage of buying the OEM W11347840 versus an aftermarket replacement?
OEM parts are made to the original factory specifications and are more likely to match fit, material quality, and functionality (including any tabs, sensor mounts, or coupler interfaces). Aftermarket bins may be cheaper but can vary in fit and durability. If exact fit and reliability are important, OEM is generally the safer choice.
The dispenser still jams after installing the new ice container-what should I check?
First confirm the bin is fully seated and aligned with the drive coupler or auger. Check the auger/drive coupler for damage and ensure the auger motor turns freely. Inspect for ice clumping or large pieces that can jam the dispenser and make sure the freezer temperature is set correctly (normally around 0°F / -18°C). if the fridge has an ice level sensor or actuator,verify it is correctly positioned or reattached. If these checks don’t resolve the issue, the problem may be with the auger motor, feed tube, or ice maker mechanism rather than the bin itself; consult a technician or service manual.
Future Outlook
The W11347840 Whirlpool ICE CONTNR OEM serves as a critical component in compatible Whirlpool refrigeration systems, providing a secure, properly shaped receptacle for ice production and storage while interfacing with dispenser mechanisms and sensors. Its correct fit and material quality help maintain ice hygiene, prevent leaks or jams, and ensure consistent dispensing performance; when the container is damaged, warped, or otherwise compromised, these functions can be degraded and lead to reduced appliance efficiency or user inconvenience.
Because many symptoms that suggest an ice container problem can also stem from other parts or settings, careful diagnosis is important before replacing components. When inspection or testing confirms the container is faulty,installing the proper OEM W11347840 part restores original fit and functionality and reduces the risk of recurring issues; when in doubt,professional service or following manufacturer guidance will help ensure a safe,effective repair and reliable long-term operation.
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