Date:         Sat, 13 May 2000 10:55:40 -0600
Reply-To:     Alfred Bagdan <abagdan@POWERSURFR.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Alfred Bagdan <abagdan@POWERSURFR.COM>
Subject:      Re: Fridge topic
Comments: To: Marc Perdue <marcperdue@ADELPHIA.NET>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

Hi Marc

I used to turn off the propane and run the fridge off the battery while
driving when I first got my Westy in 1985.  But as you know, the fridge is
hard to get going on propane.  I used to fiddle sometimes for 15 minutes, in
the parking lot, to light it.  Once I forgot to put the fridge back on
battery while driving, and low and behold, the van did not go boom and
explode.  Also, I did not have to relight the fridge when I parked.  Great
reduction in stress.  Have been leaving it on propane for the last 15 years
now, on all my camping trips, I seldom use the Battery.  I use the 110 volt
setting when I am at home and getting ready for a trip.  I also found out
that by keeping the outside vent properly sealed the pilot light won't blow
out when driving.  Of course, I shut off the propane when I park in my
garage or get a propane refill.  I do not shut off the fridge when I get a
gasoline refill.
Anyway, I have not heard of any actual case, where a VW van has blown up due
to the fridge having been left on while driving or getting a gasoline
refill.  Has anyone on this list have any such proof?
Anyway, we take far greater chances with our lives while simply driving the
van, eating improperly, smoking, drinking, etc... I am willing, for the sake
of convenience, to keep on driving with my fridge on propane, even if there
is a very miniscule chance of some kind of harm.

Take a chance and live!

Alfred
85 Westy