Kitchen Large Electric Appliances - GE Profile Frig Compressor Bang

I have a 9 year old GE Profile refrigerator that works well, only when it reaches the end of its charging cycle the compressor bangs nearly 75% of the time. I removed the rear cover, cleaned the coils, after the compressor cooled off I was able to shake it slightly and there was a faint metal to metal sound from the inside of the vessel, but the banging sounds more like the compressor hitting the floor, which it doesn't.
Is this something I can fix myself?
Are compressors easily replaced by the lay person like myself?
I have a very good working knowledge of machines, I have designed and built them for the past 35 years.
Or should I bite the bullet and buy a new refrigerator?
HELP !

The metal/metal sound you hear is the actual motor which pumps the refridegerant around the system. It sits in the "tin can" surrounded by refridgerant & oil this is how the compressor is kept cool The compressor may still be under warranty.Does the fridge ever trip the circuit breaker connected to it? As A/C units & refidgerators age the compressors can make noise or in some cases become hard to start. I would only look to replacing the compressor if its under warranty. Unless you are certified in refridgerant recovery you cannot service the compressor yourself.

My GE profile fridge started banging, too. It's 12 years old.

1. Any idea how much life is left in the compressor? Other than the banging, is it now due to fail?

2. What is the approximate cost to replace the compressor?

3. Should I consider another GE, or do other brands last longer?

Thanks!!

Id say to both here. Just go out and get a new refrigerator when it dies. Sounds like the compressor came off its springs or they wore out. First you have to be EPA to work with the freon. You could get by if the units have R134 in them . But then the cost of the tools that you need to take the old one out and put the new compressor in. Would cost more than a new fridge.;)