Date:         Wed, 14 Jun 2000 07:59:27 -0700
Reply-To:     Bill Davidson <wdavidson@THEGRID.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Bill Davidson <wdavidson@THEGRID.NET>
Subject:      Re: Troubleshooting 'Frig Cooling Problem
Comments: To: Holm <vholm@WEREWOLF.NET>
Content-Type: multipart/alternative;

  Dometic 'Frig in 84 Westy works on electric. Within 2 hours of connecting to electric the temp was down to 35 degrees (temp outside was in the 60s);

  So this means the fridge cooling mechanism works when heat is applied to the boiler... so the problem is something specific to the propane function. 

   I was unable to determine whether the fan kicked on.

  I doubt you would ever hear your fan when it is only in the 60's degrees outside.

  Fired up the propane (I always need to try two different times to get it going - maybe a magic wand would help!) - after 2, 4, 6 hours the temperature remained the same: 65 degrees. Apparently the propane is on because 1) the LED panel green light is lite and 2) the observation tube in 'frig shows a blue flame.

  Apparenty it is on... could also check the exhaust vent on the outside of the van... is it slightly warm? ... do you hear a roar or a purr? I suspect you will hear a purr; but no roar... 

  My guess: it could be the thermostat. I believe I remember that the thermostat does not function on 110 volts. If the thermostat were out that could explain why the fride cools on 110 and does not on propane. Eventhough you get the pilot to light it the thermostat does not kick the flame up to creat enough heat the boiler enough to creat cooling effect.... my guess.

  Does it also work on 12 volt? (I believe the thermostat functions on 12 volt. If that is so you should not get any better cooling on 12 volt).
  You will have to run the engine to get the 12 volt to work... take an hour drive and see if the cooling fins are cold.

  Good Luck,
  Bill
   
  We are prepared to remove the unit (did this two years ago and found some some crud, but not a lot), but would really appreciate any clues as to what we should be looking for - or replacing. The 'frig has worked like a charm in the past - cooling even warm cans of beer on hot days (although obviously not very quickly). 
   
  Has anyone had a similiar situation? What did you replace/reconfigure? I have printed out the service manual and have stored numerous emails about fans, etc. 
   
  Thanks in advance!!
  V & M Holm
  Menomonie, WI
  84 Westy
   
   
  "Writing is easy; all you do is sit staring at a blank sheet 
  of paper until the drops of blood form on your forehead."
   
  -Gene Fowler
   
   

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