converting locker to fridge

[rickalan35]

I would like to convert one of the lockers in my cockpit (in the base of a passenger settee) to a refrigerator. Does anyone here have experience with something like this?

I have been reading product information from Adler-Barbour. They have one 12v unit that seems like a good fit, identified in their product literature as the Model A/E

It appears that I can attach the compressor to any point where there is free movement of air (attaches either horizontally or vertically) and connect it to the L shaped cooling element up ten feet away.

It would be nice if this actually worked. Thoughts?? Thanks

[prowlersfish]

No reason why not as long as it is done right .

[mikeandanne]

A few sailing friends have done it----- practical sailor may have some instructions---- seemed to work fine for them---- Mike

[Big D]

A lot of people are tempted to put the compressor in the engine compartment but you must ensure the unit is ignition proof if in a gasoline app. Also, remember that while engines are running and for quite a while after shutdown, the ambient temps in the engine compartment will be high, reducing the efficiency of the cooling system. If you think this will be an issue, there are venting kits and raw water options/kits available.

[rickalan35]

Merry Christmas everybody, Cold enough for ya?? (Our Florida members must be snickering) fourteen below Fahrenheit here (-26 C)

Well, looks like this whole secondary DC fridge project is going to present multiple challenges as I try to convert the "bright idea" into "reality."

What I'd like to be able to do is pop the top off the middle cushion of the upholstered bench seat (just to the left of the helm seat) and expose a cockpit located fridge. This plan is looking like it'll be a little more complicated than I would like. The issue becomes where to place the remote compressor (must be within ten feet) and where exactly to run the coolant tubing (tubeset).

On a tricabin, like most boats, there is a shaft behind the helm that runs straight down to the bilge. This space carries the steering apparatus plus wiring. There's room to run the cooling tubes up this shaft but then I would have drill holes to divert them across to the bench seat (they would also require their own 12 inch long cosmetic/protective cover, to avoid being kicked or stepped on). All this is doable. But this also means setting the compressor up somewhere down in the bilge. This isn't recommended unless the compressor is ducted in both directions.

So, now I'm wondering about a change in plans. First thought was the storage locker below the steps leading down from the cockpit to the salon. I've decided that probably after the recommended thickness of insulation is installed in there, this area would be too small.

Next possible location is under the salon settee or failing that, maybe somewhere in the V-bunks. The salon settee in my boat is not the stock Trojan unit but rather one that I had custom made. The new settee is divided into three large sections and it will not be entirely convenient to just pop off a cushion when you want a beer. I have room under the V-bunks but they're not very convenient to lift up either. Hmmmmmmmn. Any ideas?

I'm beginning to think that the fallback position to the big Engel Cooler belted to the swim platform has more and more merit.

[Big D]

Have you thought of a self contained unit, and enclose it in cabinetry (finished wood or vinyl covered) somewhere in the cockpit? You could hook up a marine or RV unit to both 110vac or 12vdc. There are several brands and sizes to choose from. No custom box to make, no separate unit to locate remotely, no refridge lines to worry about, occupies only one footprint instead of two. Don't know the size you're looking for but do a search for the self contained drawer fridges too. They're getting popular for under benches in cockpits or where ever.
http://www.dometic.com/enus/Americas/US ... taid=74580
http://www.vfamerica.com/eng/catalog.asp?catid=427&

[rickalan35]

Thanks, Big D

That's good advice.