2022 400 fridge with 2-way

jules2go

Hello fellow tabbers,

I'm moving from my 320 to a 400 this fall and see there is an option for a 2-way or 3-way fridge on the 2022. My local dealer has one of both on their lot, but the 2-way is 1000.00 more. Please shed light for me on why I'd want to spend another 1k? My 320 has a 3-way and having the propane option has been critical when boondocking. 

Julia

Denny16

The 3-way option for the TaB400, was not as reliable or,efficient as the smaller ones used in the 320, and was dropped by the manufacturer.  Several members here who got this larger 3-way option, ended up,taking them out and replacing the, with the new larger 2-way fridge.  

The 2-way is actually more efficient than the 3-way, it is a compressor fridge, and will efficiently run on DC, where the three way did not, using a fraction of the DC power the 3-way uses.  The TaB400 comes with roof mounted solar, and on our TaB400 with the older 2-way, keeps the battery charged, replacing the energy used by the fridge over night.  

Personally, I prefer the 2-way compressor fridge:
 No external vent penetrations on the trailer for bugs to get in through. 

 More efficient use of space, for the same footprint, the 2-way has more useable space inside for food. 

 The 2-way can be regulated to a given temp, +/- 5 degrees, where the 3-way can not, and will cool in conditions the three way finds challenging.  Food can be kept at safe 35-40F, regardless,of ambient temps.

 Cheers 

jules2go

Thank you!

dsfdogs

The 2023 400's only come with the 2-way Isotherm 4.6cf compressor fridge.

Denny16

True, Isotherm stopped making the 3-way (probably due to its issues) and nüCamp replaced the option, making the new Isotherm Cruse 4.6cf the standard fridge in the 400.  Jules is looking at pre- existing dealer inventory of a 2022 TaB400, earlier builds had the 3-way option, and the later bui,taunts only had the new 2-way, as stock,of the older 3-way were depleted.  Given the choice, I would take the newer 2-way fridge.
 Cheers 

jules2go

dsfdogs said:

The 2023 400's only come with the 2-way Isotherm 4.6cf compressor fridge.

Sure wish the 2023s didn't have that darn bunk bed. I wonder how the Isotherm will be. When I first bought my 2020 320S, the fridge worked on my first trip out and after that was a total bust and was replaced under warranty. I'm hoping my next one will be a winner right out of the gate, and no returns!

Denny16

So far, there haven’t been any issues with the new Isotherm, that I am aware of, and none reported here.  Good luck with your new TaB400, ykumwill enjoy the extra space.
 Cheers 

dsfdogs

@jules2go I too would prefer no bunk and give the extra space to the seating. I do love the new shape of seats and table though.

As for the Isotherm, I am having trouble with the door. There is a hoky plastic piece that moves for the latch, either for "vent" or "lock". When in the lock position, it's not "really" locked tight as in, doesn't budge. I'm still able to open the door maybe 1/8". Enough for fingertips to get between the rubber seals but not enough for the light to turn on. It doesn't take much effort to pull it open either. I didn't notice it at walk through. Fridge was working, but already building up frost/ice. Fridge turned off for travel home and in those 30 minutes, I had puddles of water in fridge, down into drawer and on the floor. Upon inspection I discovered the situation. Took it back to the dealer the next day and they didn't have a clue about what to do. Another new 400 on their lot has same problem. Yesterday I was in communication with a tech guy from IWMarine for Isotherm and he said try adjusting the middle of top rail in, which should help pull the latch in, but it requires pulling out the fridge 7-10" and it weighs 70# and I'm not sure I can do that...it appears I could move the rail maybe 1/16" before it's flush. Unfortunately, this guy also said I'll always be able to slightly open the door! What?? There is no travel lock. Very disappointing.