Re: [VAL] 12 volt refridg

[Joel Raymond <pi2@xxxxxxx>]

I have just finished phase one of my 65 caravel restoration. Phase one 
is: cleanup, repair, repaint, what I  have. The original refrigerator 
was replaced with an ice box by the previous owner and it was in sad 
shape. I had to replace the water pump so I added two large deep marine 
batteries and an intelligent charger. I decided to go for a 110 VAC 
Magic Chef. It cost $135 at Home Depot. The power consumption is a 
little over 1 Amp @ 110V, or roughly 10A @ 12V. The duty  rate is 50%( 
runs 1/2 of the time), so in 24 Hrs 60AHrs. The batteries are 120AHr 
each, therefore four days before a totally dead battery. I have a very 
small inverter dedicated to the refrigerator, $15. When traveling, the 
car recharges the batteries and at night I use a Honda EU2000 for a few 
hours to put new life into the batteries. The refrigerator is cheaper, 
the case is not very robust and the mounting required drilling holes 
into the outer shell otherwise it vibrates out of position when 
rolling. The other AC device I installed was a small microwave because 
the stove really needs an overhaul. The microwave requires the EU2000.

Phase two will replace the stock built-in cabinets, add a dinette in 
place of the front gaucho, and buff the outside.

Joel