Here are some pictures of our failed refrigerator "boiler"
http://picasaweb.google.com/john.coc...railerPictures
Two things I have learned from this experience:
1. Yellow deposit of sodium chromate is a sure sign of a refrigerant leak. The sodium chromate is bright yellow, and is used as a corrosion inhibitor in the refrigerant.
2. Cooling units can be repaired and there are people around who do this work. Much cheaper than replacing either the whole fridge, or even just the cooling unit.
Thanks to our dealer who directed us to a repair shop when they could have just sold us a new fridge.