Norcold Removal

I started this thread a long time ago.  The Norcold was one of the first concerns I had with the T@B, and I have been cussing and discussing it ever since.  First let me say that I do not have the 3-way.  I THOUGHT I had a 2-way, but when I removed it today, I discovered it was DC only.  That may explain why it was such a drain on the battery.  Any time it was on, it was draining the battery.

Although I thought I had mostly solved the noise problem, it returned on my last trip.  I refuse to put up with such a nuisance when I'm supposed to be relaxed and having a good time.  Plus, it was very inefficient.  I was introduced to an Engel by a couple of T@DA owners in AZ, and was very impressed.  So, this morning I ordered one and have already removed the Norcold.  It ain't going back in even if the Engel happens to not work out.

The Engel is a 2-way.  Since I will need an AC connection somewhere and there is not one in the fridge cabinet at present, looks like I may have to drill a hole in the counter above the fridge and plug it in one of the receptacles by the door.  Can't wait until it gets here so I can try it out.

Understand, but since I didn't want to go with the 3-way (not a knock on them in any way), I figured my best bet was to go with a different brand and not take a chance on purchasing the same problem.  I also plan to replace my little stick-on level indicators with something more reliable just in case that may have added to the problem, although I have had no indication of that in my two years' experience with it.

Still waiting for the shipment of my new fridge, but I went out today to check the space and to determine where I might need to drill a hole in the cabinet to accommodate the AC cord.  I also checked everything I could think of that might create a rattle or other noise when the new one is installed.  And...I discovered that the gas line was routed up through the cabinet where the refrigerator sits then through other front cabinets to the stove on the side.  I found several places where this copper gas line either rubbed/squeaked or rattled against the cabinets where they were routed.  Not enough rubbing to wear on the gas line, just create a little noise.  I took some time to place rubberized material between the line and the cabinets anywhere there was contact.  Doing whatever I can to eliminate any noise when the new one is installed.

It will probably be April before I give it an actual road test, but I will certainly hook it up and run it a while.  I'll check out the noise level, how often it cycles (although cold weather may not be a good test) and how many amps it draws while running.  The folks in AZ gave it a great review.  At $720 (free shipping), it better be good.

Well, the Norcold (DC only) has now been removed and the Engel installed (AC/DC).  It will not get a true test until summer when ambient temperatures are a bit higher, but here are a couple of observations so far:

1)  The Engel is made by Sawafugi Electric Co. of Japan.  The Norcold (mine) was made in Thailand.
2)  At a distance, you could not tell the two apart; same size, same profile, same layout inside.  Leads me to believe they were designed by the same company.
3)  They definitely have different compressors.  (I read the specs somewhere, but don't have them before me and don't remember them.)  The Engel has a smooth, easy startup and runs without all the shake, rattle and roll of the Norcold.  And, the operation is whisper quiet. OMG!

Quite sure I will be much happier with the Engel.  If anyone has specific questions, I'll be glad to answer.

NOTE:  I understand the Norcold 3-way does not have the vibration/noise characteristics of the DC only model.  Maybe the 3-way has the upgraded compressor?  I did not have (nor want) the 3-way, so my only experience is with the DC model that came with the T@B.

SweetlyHome said:

Larry, there is no compressor in a 3 way refrigerator...

Thanks for that clarification.  No wonder they are so quiet.  As I said, I've had no experience with them and just assumed...which usually is not wise.  BTW, both my old and new units have small cooling fans attached.  I didn't look at the specs, but they are similar to fans found in computers.  Quite sure they are not large enough to dissipate the heat created by the 3-way.

Rich, I'm not sure.  I had the Norcold DC only model and the Engel SR48 was a perfect replacement fit.  I think the 3-way Norcold is larger, so I'm not sure what size/model you would need.  Maybe you could look them both up on the Internet and check their specs.  Good luck, and sorry I couldn't be more help.

Rich, since you're Norcold is a 3-way, I assume you will be removing a gas line, or do you plan to cap if off some way?  I'm sure you are aware of this, but if you are doing the work yourself, just a reminder to disconnect all power sources (AC and DC), and shut off the LP at the tank.  Although you won't be using LP on a 2-way, you want to be sure there are no gas leaks after it is installed.

I also suggest you wait until you have the new unit and read its installation instructions before removing the old one.  The reason is that although these units are made at different locations, they are (I'm pretty sure) designed by the same company.  This means doing the removal/installation helps in understanding the reverse process.

When you take the unit loose from the cabinet, pull it forward (if you can) enough to expose the electric fittings on top.  Remove the junction cover and expose the connections.  Here you can pull the plugs loose and use them on the new unit.  I made the mistake of cutting the wires from the old unit before reading the instructions.  This means I had to crimp new plugs onto the wires before installing.

Again, good luck and happy T@bbing!