Date:         Wed, 21 Dec 2011 20:02:59 -0500
Reply-To:     Art <awa0330@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Art <awa0330@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: '86 Vanagon West Camper
Comments: To: Robert Stevens <mtbiker62@gmail.com>
In-Reply-To:  <842F55FE-3CFC-4F42-958B-BD532DA4A212@gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="Windows-1252"

From: Robert Stevens 
  I’ve decided on the Engel 43 Qt. Portable Fridge .  It’s pricey for sure, but I’ve used it and had great success with it, and it uses very little energy. The biggest drawback is that it can be either a fridge or freezer, but not both.  Good suggestion about the cable and separator.  In fact, the camper did not have an auxiliary battery set up and I’m putting one in so I can cover those bases. As I get more familiar with my new friend, I’ll eventually look into solar as well. 

  Art, .. congratulations on your new-to-you Westy.


As far as removing the Dometic, I did that a few years ago and have been very pleased with the
vitrifrigo, all electric (runs on 110 or 12V). 

One thing to consider doing is install a dedicated, large (4 gauge) cable from the + alternator
post to your main battery, if you have any kind of relay between the main and aux batteries.
I have a 1315 battery separator with this set up and I get a much faster charge while driving,
or when stopped in a campground. Might want to check all the grounds on your van too, and
freshen those up. I put short grounds behind the headlights to improve the path there.

The fridge is about twice the capacity of the Dometic and fits nicely in that same space. It will
also keep ice cream frozen during summer months.

I've seen a lot of top-loading fridge's that are great, that sit on the floor. Much larger
capacity too.



Bob
'87 Syncro Westy