Date:         Sat, 18 Apr 2009 02:14:05 -0700
Reply-To:     azsun99 <azsun99@EARTHLINK.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         azsun99 <azsun99@EARTHLINK.NET>
Subject:      portable fridge (long)
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

I know some on the list have replaced the OEM Dometic 3-way fridge with the
Vitrifrigo, but I am looking at portable units. I quit using the Dometic in my '90
about 3 years ago because it was not cooling well. I started using an old Coleman ice
chest that has a separate ice tub that holds 25LB of ice (how many remember the old
block ice dispensers, where you insert some quarters and out comes this big block of
ice?). It is tied down right behind the passenger seat, and worked so well, I removed
the Dometic and put slideout drawers in the space with room below for a porta-potti.
And my Propex furnace is hooked up to the gas line where the Dometic had been.
I am now thinking of re-joining the modern world and have been researching
top-loading, portable fridges, especially those using the Danfoss compressor, same as
in the Vitrifrigo.
A reason for the new all-electric units is they don't have to be level (not always
possible when stealth camping) and one reason for wanting to stay with a top-loader is
a 75LB black Labrador who is often found blocking whatever door needs to be opened.
Anyway, there are numerous brands, styles and sizes of portables, two of which,
Dometic and Waeco, appear to be identical. There is also Norcold (Thetford), EdgeStar,
Engel, FridgeFreeze (made in San Diego) and ARB (Australian). Oh yes, Vitrifrigo also
makes top-loaders.

So, is anyone using one of the portable units, and do you have any comments?

And if anyone wants an extremely comprehensive (and long) report, with photos,
diagrams, charts and comparisons, including the two types, Sawafuji swing compressor
and the German Danfoss 12/24V BD35F/BD50F compressors, go here:
    http://home.iprimus.com.au/rfh/portablefridges.html
Okay, it's in Australian and metric language, but still good info.

Jerry