Date:         Wed, 9 Jun 2010 19:53:12 -0400
Reply-To:     Edward Maglott <emaglott3@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Edward Maglott <emaglott3@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: AC While Camping
Comments: To: Stephen Steele <steeles@HORIZONVIEW.NET>
In-Reply-To:  <9294E09B-A673-4682-880E-5F74111F311E@horizonview.net>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"; format=flowed

Well this thread exploded all over itself and I wasn't sure which one
to reply to, so went back to the OP.  Here's an idea I had, and maybe
someone else can develop it before/if I ever get around to it.

My 86 Westy has the stock AC, but it has never worked well and now
doesn't work at all.  I also would like the option to have AC while
in  a CG with hookups.  Most of the year I do not need AC at all.  I
like the idea of accessories that can stay at home when not needed in
the van, like my little electric heater.  So here's my proposal.  One
of those portable-rolls-on-the-floor-and-vents-out-a-window AC
units.  Strap it in behind passenger seat or somewhere.  Vent out
window.  I like the idea of it using outside air for the heat
exchange and I think some do this.  Maybe a snorkel like thing
sticking out the window could supercharge this process while going
down the road?  When at campground, just plug it in.  When driving it
gets power from an inverter and battery that is powered by the 2nd
alternator that replaces the AC compressor.  When not needed, the AC
unit, battery, inverter all stay home.  The belt could come off the
extra alternator too if you like.  Obviously, this thing will only
work while driving, and will rapidly deplete its battery if you try
to run it while the engine is not running.  Maybe a safety device
that shuts off the AC unit when the 2nd alternator stops producing
power?  A 120amp alternator is about 1400watts, but what does it put
out at idle speed?  Several other questions in the wings on this
project for sure.

Edward



At 11:26 PM 6/8/2010, Stephen Steele wrote:
>I am trying to address one of the wife's chief complaints about
>longer duration summer trips in the Westy... A/C while camping and
>especially overnight.