TheSamba.com :: View topic - Westy Fridge

Sun Jul 31, 2005 5:54 pm

I have a 91 westy and I've been having trouble with the propane part of the fridge ever since I got it. The fridge works fine on both DC and AC but on propane it actually lights but it just would not cool the fridge. This weekend I finally sucked it up and pull the fridge out to troubleshoot the propane.

I was ecstatic to find 10+ critters in the burner box because I was assuming that was the root of my problem. After cleaning it out and installing everything back in and getting a new tank of propane I tried the fridge on propane again. No luck, same result. It lights but it doesn't cool at all.

I'm soaking the gas nozzle right now in alcohol but I don't think that's the problem. I'm starting to think it's the regulator not providing enough pressure to the nozzle. Any suggestions? If it's broken is there anywhere to get another one or to repair it?

Steve

Sun Jul 31, 2005 10:49 pm

"Use the SEARCH, Luke."

There ARE articles around about the frig.

EX: http://www.vanagon.com/info/articles/#Refrigerator_info

Mon Aug 01, 2005 7:31 am

yep do a search, this topic has been covered lots on this forum. Cleaning the orifice will help and blowing out the gas line with compressed air will help. It takes quite a while for the fridge to start cooling also.

Tue Aug 02, 2005 1:03 pm

Thanks for all your input. I took the fridge out again did the following:
- clean the nozzle
- Disassemble all the connectors and blew out all the hoses

The fridge lights because I feel some hot exhaust coming out of the flue and the light on the panel is like 50% (it's on but it looks dimmer than full green) but after running it overnight it still does NOT cool at ALL.

I'm guessing the gas flow is low. I notice in one of the connectors there was a plastic trap with some fiberous filter material. I'm guess that a filter for the gas. I took that out just to see if it makes a different. But no it does not. So i'm back to square one.

The only unknown is the "regulator" behind the AC/DC power control knob. I don't know why gas passess through that "regulator" but it's the only place that could I can't see a clear path through the flow.

ANY additional thoughts would be appreciated.

Steve

Tue Aug 02, 2005 5:35 pm

did you remove the orifice and blow compressed air from the threaded nipple (gas disconnect) and turn the regulator while blowing? Did you feel a good stream of air coming out as you were blowing? I rigged up one of my barbecue propane tanks with a compression fitting so I could test the fridge out of the van and trouble shoot that stuff without taking it out and putting it back in to trouble shoot it. If all else fails any RV place could check it out for you.

Tue Aug 02, 2005 10:10 pm

Now I like that. My frig needs a good going through and I want to add the mods. Most of my interior is out right now because I am replacing all the windows and insulation. So it is prime time. I guess, I can take my spare BBQ bottle and do the same. Get the fittings and hose at someplace like Homie Depot?