NORCOLD fridge rust problem and propane hose clearance (recall notice)

Mellow_Yellow

Background: My 2014 T@B 320 S is "new to me" but sat, unused, covered but otherwise neglected by its previous owners, for most of the past 6 years. I live in the mild but moist Pacific NW. I keep the T@B well ventilated while not in use and have no issues with condensation, even while camping.

While investigating my 2014 T@B 320 S for the fridge-hose recall notice, I discovered extensive rust on the NORCOLD fridge's piping and major signs of past mildew on the inside of the fridge side panel and adjacent (removable) plywood panel between the fridge and sink. I cleaned and removed the mildew with bleach solution, but now I'm seriously concerned about this fridge. 

  

Questions:
1. Is the fridge safe to use in this condition?
2. Should I raise h*ll with the RV dealer who sold it to me?
3. Should I have a refrigeration expert look at the fridge and while they're at it, address the gas hose location issue as per the recall notice? I'm not sure I'll be able to add the clamp myself, given the tight access.
4. Can the surface rust on the piping be removed/repainted by a refrigeration expert? 
5. Eeeek!

Denny16

Looks looks like minor rust scaling on the surface.  You should be able to sue a small wire brush and some emery paper or a green Scotch pad to remove the loose rust scale, and repaint with a rust inhibitor primer or paint.  Do not see any issue why you shouldn’t be able to sue the fridge.  I would run it to see if it cools first, this will tell you if it has any coolant left in it.
cheers

Mellow_Yellow

Thanks @Denny16 - I forgot to mention: the fridge runs super well and is absolutely quiet.
I need to figure out how to get the hose modification made though so that it doesn't rub on the fins. 

Dalehelman

I found the easiest way to address gas line cooling fin issue was to lift the stove up and out of the way. Nothing to disconnect. Just loosen the 4 screws one in each corner. Then use wire ties to secure hose away from the sharp edges of the fins. Check to see if the hose has been compromised. The hose wall is quite thick, and under very low pressure.  So a slight abrasion should be ok. If it is working fine I would vacuum up any debris and call it good.

Mellow_Yellow

@Dalehelman Thank you so much! I’ll give that a try tomorrow!

ScottG

Mellow_Yellow said:

...
the fridge runs super well and is absolutely quiet.
... 

That would be good enough for me in a 7-8 year old camper fridge!

Mellow_Yellow

Still in progress: I was stumped by the "6 sided screw heads on the stove". Duh! hex key. Not thinking too clearly today... I managed to get a plastic hose strap around the offending hose so that there is now a gap between it and the fins. It will be a functional and not especially beautiful repair. Luckily I don't give tours inside the fridge compartment.
I'm not sure about using the plastic hose strap so close to the fins. I may opt for heavy wire that shouldn't wear into the hose, but I prefer the wider hose strap. TBD. I'll have another look tomorrow.

Denny16

You can get nylon based hose straps, they are more flexible and resistant to cuts and contact wear.
cheers

Sharon_is_SAM

@Mellow_Yellow - did you see this:  
https://tab-rv.vanillacommunity.com/discussion/9310/3-way-refrigerator-recall-2016#latest

Mellow_Yellow

Hi @Sharon_is_SAM - yes, thanks. dealing with the propane hose sitting on top of the fin is a current project. I hope to have it done today and will post a photo of the finished product 

Mellow_Yellow

After a fruitless search for the correct hose clip, the lady at the automotive parts store suggested a temperature-rated zap strap. I drilled 2 holes in the removable panel access (under the sink) and threaded the strap through and around the hose. And presto! The clearance between the hose and fins is now 3/8". 

Tampakayaker

To be extra safe if you're worried, you could get a short piece of larger diameter heater type hose, slit it and put around the propane hose. Or cut a piece of a soda can, roll the edges or smooth them and tie wrap it to the propane making it armored!