4388538 - Genuine OEM Whirlpool Refrigerator Shelf Stud Kit
4388538 - Genuine OEM Whirlpool Refrigerator Shelf Stud Kit
The 4388538 Genuine OEM Whirlpool Refrigerator Shelf Stud Kit is a genuine Whirlpool replacement part designed to support refrigerator shelves and related interior components. Whirlpool identifies 4388538 as an OEM shelf support and specifically describes it as a shelf stud kit.
This kit contains two shelf supports: one push-and-turn stud and one screw-in stud. The supports attach to the refrigerator's interior wall and provide mounting support for the shelf or crisper-area components, depending on the compatible appliance configuration.
Appliance Kingdom supplies genuine OEM appliance parts across Canada, making this part a suitable replacement option when a compatible Whirlpool refrigerator has a cracked, broken, missing, or damaged shelf support.
Function & Importance
The 4388538 shelf stud kit provides the physical support needed to hold compatible refrigerator shelving or interior shelf-related components securely in position. The kit includes two different styles of studs to match the original mounting arrangement used by compatible appliances.
A damaged shelf stud can prevent a shelf or crisper-area component from sitting correctly. Continued use with a broken support can leave the shelf unstable and reduce the usable storage capacity of the refrigerator.
Using the correct OEM shelf support is important because small differences in stud design, mounting method, size, and shape can affect proper fit. Whirlpool specifically recommends verifying the part number against the appliance model before ordering.
Common Symptoms Indicating Replacement
A 4388538 shelf stud kit may be needed when you notice:
- A refrigerator shelf support is cracked or broken
- A shelf no longer stays securely in position
- A shelf or crisper-area support has come loose
- A shelf is unstable because one of its mounting studs is damaged
- A shelf support stud is missing
- The original support cannot securely hold the shelf or related component
If the shelf itself is undamaged but its mounting support is broken, replacing the shelf stud can restore the proper support arrangement.
Will Replacing This Part Fix My Problem?
If the problem is caused by a broken, cracked, missing, or damaged shelf stud, replacing the affected support with the correct 4388538 kit can restore the shelf's intended mounting support.
However, if the shelf, refrigerator liner, mounting holes, or another supporting component is damaged, replacing the stud alone may not resolve the entire problem. Verify the source of the damage before ordering.
Compatibility Guidance
4388538 is a refrigerator shelf support/stud kit for compatible Whirlpool-family appliances. Authoritative Whirlpool parts information identifies it as a refrigerator/ice-machine shelf support, while Canadian parts information identifies it specifically as a Whirlpool refrigerator shelf support kit.
Always verify your refrigerator's complete model number and the existing part number before ordering. Parts can look similar while having differences in size or mounting design.
If you are unsure whether 4388538 is correct for your refrigerator, provide your complete model number to Appliance Kingdom so compatibility can be confirmed before purchase.
Replaces Part Numbers
Whirlpool's official parts listing confirms that 4388538 replaces the following part numbers:
- 1006
- 2147997
- 2179566
- WP2147997
- 1115382
- 1110718
Key Features & Benefits
- Genuine OEM Whirlpool shelf stud kit
- Manufacturer part number: 4388538
- Designed for compatible refrigerator applications
- Includes two different shelf support styles
- One push-and-turn stud and one screw-in stud
- Helps secure compatible refrigerator shelving and interior components
- OEM construction for proper fit and intended support
- Suitable for homeowners, landlords, and professional appliance technicians
- A practical replacement for damaged or broken shelf supports
The Canadian Home Depot appliance-parts listing also identifies 4388538 as a genuine OEM Whirlpool refrigerator shelf support kit and states that the kit contains one push-and-turn support and one screw-in support.
Installation Overview
Replacing the 4388538 shelf stud kit is generally a relatively simple refrigerator repair that may be suitable for an experienced DIYer. Parts Dr lists the repair as approximately 15–30 minutes, while other appliance-parts information describes the repair as very easy or suitable for basic hand-tool use.
Remove the shelf or affected interior component, remove the damaged support according to its mounting style, and install the corresponding replacement stud. Make sure the support is firmly seated before reinstalling the shelf.
Because this is a refrigerator interior mechanical component rather than a gas, water, or electrical connection, professional installation is generally not required for an experienced DIYer. If the refrigerator liner or mounting area is damaged, professional assessment may be appropriate.
Canada-Wide Availability & Supplier Trust
Appliance Kingdom is a Canadian appliance parts supplier based in Edmonton, Alberta, serving homeowners, landlords, property managers, and appliance repair professionals across Canada.
The 4388538 shelf stud kit is a genuine OEM Whirlpool component. Appliance Kingdom provides Canada-wide shipping and support to help customers identify the correct appliance replacement part before ordering.
Buyer Confidence & Reassurance
4388538 is identified by Whirlpool as a genuine OEM shelf support, providing confidence that the component is manufactured for compatible Whirlpool appliance applications.
For the best fit confidence, verify your refrigerator's complete model number before purchasing. If you need assistance, Appliance Kingdom can help you check the part against your appliance information.