Refrigerator

Hi!
My 2351 is almost 5 years old, constant use.  The refrigerator is going on the blitz.  Called the factory and have not gotten a return call yet so figured I'd tap into the forum's expertise.
Question:  What model of refrigerator is PC installing nowadays?  Mine is a Norcold N621 (6 cu.ft.), and it doesn't seem to be made anymore... at least I can't find it through a web search.  In fact, I can't find a Norcold RV frig between 5.5 cu.ft (too small) and 7 cu.ft. (way too big).
Found Dometic 2652 and Dometic 2662 2-way RV frigs that come close in size but are slightly taller and wider, which will necessitate the cabinetry being cut (and raising the price of an already expensive project even more).
Any one have any other suggestions?
Thanks for your input!

Hi Carol,

My following suggestion is a serious shot in the dark.

Since you have been using your PC non-stop for the past 5 years, remove the fridge's outside access cover (s) and see if there are any cooling fins that have plugged up with natural debris.  Clean everything up and just maybe your fridge will operate properly again.

As far as a replacement fridge, you are "doing right" in calling the factory and asking them what fits.  But hopefully just cleaning the back-side of the fridge will take care of your problem.

Ron Dittmer

Thanks Ron.  I've done that.  There is ammonia residue back there, though, which I believe is sort of a kiss of death.

Carol:  If you are seeing or smelling ammonia in any fashion it is time to call the funeral home!! 

Could be worth a shot at?


https://rvcoolingunit.com/Norcold-N621-Brand-new-Amish-Built-CU-P5322646.aspx

Yup, I was quoted a price at a repair shop for a new cooling unit, plus labor, that approached the price of a new refrigerator.  And if it isn't done right, I would be no better off, just way poorer.  That's why I'm trying to find out what kind of refrigerator is in the newer Phoenix units now.  Then I can more easily compare my options.  Anyone out there with a 2018 or 2019 who wouldn't mind looking at their brand and model number, I would appreciate the help. 

When we bought a Winnebago class A, we fought why they put in a Residential refrigerator/freezer.  I refused to purchase a unit with such a unit.. Well after a year with this setup, I have know to appreciate the $150 refrig and freezer running 110VAC... Sure it uses power, not gas (LP}, but with 800 watts of solar it is truly not a problem. Have only have to run genset to make sure it really still works.
And if the refrig quits, ok just less than $180 or so and not $3000.   just my 2 cents...

Denny and barb. .

Hi Carol,

2019 model 2552, delivered in February 2019.  I did not order any special option on the refrigerator, so mine would be equipped with the standard model being currently installed by Phoenix.

My unit is a Norcold Model N7LX (serial # 30011521).  The unit is termed a 7 cubic foot refrigerator, though actual internal space is 6.5 cubic feet.

According to the Norcold Installation Manual, actual dimensions are as follows:
--Refrigerator cabinet width w/o trim:  23.47 in.
--Refrigerator width with trim:  24.6 in.
--Refrigerator cabinet height w/o trim:  52.85 in.
--Refrigerator height overall w/trim:  54.5 in.
They call for an enclosure for the refrigerator to be 52.88 - 53.01 inches high X 23.5 - 23.63 inches wide X 24 inches deep for this model.

There is an identical model that is nominally 8 cubic feet (actual 7.5), the N8LX, which is the same width and depth, but approximately 7 inches taller.

All the best,       Mike

Thank you all for your input and thanks MikeH for going the extra mile with all that detail.  Very helpful!

Okey, here's the skinny for anyone with a similar question now or in the future.
Factory (Carol) called back and, like MikeH noted, they are now installing Norcold NA7LX (2-way) units on new PC's.
Although listed as a 7 cu.ft. frig, it is really only 6.5 cu.ft. and Phoenix is installing it in the same size opening as the one the N621 fit into, so (yay!) no cabinet modifications are needed.
Important to note:  The slightly larger frig does require you to order a trim adapter kit for the door panels if you want to save $$ and use your old door panels rather than ordering new ones.
Again, thanks for the help and input.

I really don't like the 2 way refrigs. A 120 v residential may be good. Have you been successful running one on two coach batteries while traveling? Can the truck alternator and coach inverter keep up?

Ron

Interesting comment Ron Sarz272000.

We would be in deep trouble if not for our fridge working primarily off propane along with a tiny bit of 12V.  We could sooner live without the 110V mode though it is very nice when 110V is available.  For us in the places we travel to and the days spent never moving the motor home.  Our 2-way fridge has been ideal for us.

Thanks Carol for posting your findings.  That is great information to have if ever anyone here needs to replace their fridge.

Ron Dittmer

Hey guys, I have a Residential refrig.   Didn't like the thought of it at 1st.  But.... it dose well with 800 watts of solar. I ve  have power to spare with just 4 batteries. each day.

Denny and Barb

I really don't like the 2 way refrigs. A 120 v residential may be good. Have you been successful running one on two coach batteries while traveling? Can the truck alternator and coach inverter keep up?

Ron

Not sure what you call a 2 way refrigerator is what the RV industry calls a 2 way.   The standard 2 Way runs on propane or 120v.   The 12v used to control the propane is very minimal as in I can run my refrigerator all night and not see a voltage drop.

Now... There used to be 3 way RV refrigerators, propane, 12v or 120v.   When set for 12v...the quickly drew the batteries down.   Perhaps that's what you are thinking of?

12v DC powered Peltiers (thermo-electric coolers) suck huge amounts of current and are  better suited for the small refrigerators used  in class b vans.