New fridge

[hdavis]

For those of you considering swapping out the original 12/120V fridge:

We just replaced our original unit with a new Norcold 641-3 3-way fridge.
The Norcold came from RV Parts in Sunnyvale, Ca for $949 - including the
trim panels. If you choose to go this route be careful with the part
numbers. The dealer had a different model number based on how he ordered
units.

The new fridge is slightly taller than the old one and a bit narrower
(about 1/2 inch). The old fridge came out pretty easily, but the plywood
behind the unit was in horrible shape. Since I didn't have the time to do
the entire installation myself, I don't have pictures from every step. The
final pictures will go up on my site this weekend sometime. Installation
was a bit more than a day's time to build the new baffles, install new
framing, and close the side gap with a piece of laminated material that
more or less matched the Palm Beach trim. The depth of the new unit was
perfect - lots of room to complete the installation. Clearance at the top
for the exhaust vent was very close. In addition to the woodworking, a new
12V line and propane line had to be installed. The existing 12V line is too
small for the increased current draw.

Norcold also makes a 2-way that is about $100 cheaper. We decided to go
with the 3-way because we drive quite a bit and wanted to save on propane
usage and hassles during refueling. If ice makers are your thing, Norcold
also has ice maker options.

Henry


Henry Davis Consulting, Inc / new product consulting
PO Box 1270 / product readiness reviews
Soquel, Ca 95073 / IP reviews
ph: (408) 462-5199 / full service marketing
fax: (408) 462-5198
http://www.henry-davis.com/ http://www.henry-davis.com

 

[darren paget]

If you or anyone is thinking about replacing the fridge there are a couple of
things you need to know. If the old is original and you are replacing with
propane where propane was not. It is important to have a hole at the bottom of
the compartment where propane vapors can escape. This is best accomplished by
drilling a couple of holes which will accept 1.5" abs pipe, which can be used
to direct these vapors. This must be done unless the bottom of your new fridge
is equal to the bottom of your exterior fridge side vent. If you need to
install a new side vent. To cut the hole be certain that you do not cut through
the main side beam of the coach. No explanation required. If the new bottom of
the new fridge does not line up with the vent than it will be necessary to
construct an air plenum from the vent to the lower part of the fridge and, in
effect, enclose the fridge from the rest of the coach. This will ensure propane
vapors will exit the coach via your vent holes. Because of the restricted space
in this compartment it would be advisable to install one of the circulating
fans which are available for three way fridges. This will ensure good air
movement and a happy fridge. My thoughts not yours. Darren

> For those of you considering swapping out the original 12/120V fridge:
>
> We just replaced our original unit with a new Norcold 641-3 3-way fridge.
> The Norcold came from RV Parts in Sunnyvale, Ca for $949 - including the
> trim panels.
>
> Henry
>
>
> Henry Davis Consulting, Inc / new product consulting
> PO Box 1270 / product readiness reviews
> Soquel, Ca 95073 / IP reviews
> ph: (408) 462-5199 / full service marketing
> fax: (408) 462-5198
> http://www.henry-davis.com/ http://www.henry-davis.com