Wiring to freezer compressor smokes

[sg]

I have just been given a small freezer which was working perfectly in its precious home. I plugged it in and the wiring began to smoke a little then the motor cut out. Obviously I switched it off immediately.
If it was working perfectly before what could have caused it to get a fault in the wiring?
Is this a common fault and is it worth paying to get it fixed?

Any thoughts?

thanks

[docspock]

Where was the smoke from ?

[sg]

The smoke was from the little box of wiring that is attached to the black cylindrical compressor housing.

[sg]

..... probably called the compressor relay - I might be able to remove it and clean it, which may solve the problem - has anyone else had similar problem?

[stokemaveric]

really it might be better,and safer to buy a new freezer.......