fridge size???

[hoser]

I do wonder how they measure current draw? Are all manufacturers using the same method? Same ambient temp, same interior temp, same amount/type of contents?

It is possible to mod the Waeco CF-50 to draw less current than it's factory preset. This feature comes standard on the larger CF-80. Could probably mod this feature to make it selectable.

 

[IBCRUSN]

Originally I was going to get a Engel 45 then I saw the waeco 50, but now I'm undecided again as the Waeco draws more power than the Engel.....Engel 1.75 amps versus waeco 2.75 amps..
decisions decisions the reason the waeco has more room but still the same size is the compressor is all the way at the bottom of the unit wheras the engle goes from top to bottom

Are you sure on that? I know the 80 is more power hungry than the 40 and the 50 but I thought I read the Waeco is more efficient than the ARB/Engle/Norcold (swing motor). I'll have to drag up the copy of Overland Journal that did a compare/test of several units.

I do wonder how they measure current draw? Are all manufacturers using the same method? Same ambient temp, same interior temp, same amount/type of contents?

It is possible to mod the Waeco CF-50 to draw less current than it's factory preset. This feature comes standard on the larger CF-80. Could probably mod this feature to make it selectable.

click on over to Expedition Portal and they have a couple threads on just that topic. Same BB software so the search function is the same.

modding your Waeco

 

[97 FZJ80]

Waeco uses Danfoss rotary compressor, which draws more power when its running, but is more efficient - so it draws less overall power from the battery. The Norcold uses a swing motor/compressor which is extremely rugged and able to stand low votage, extreme angles, etc. It is well suited for offroad and expedition use.

Keep in mind that the Norcold has a metal body, which is heavier but stronger. It is less suspectable to heat warps.

 

[jonladd]

I've had an engel 45 for 4 years now and love it. The size is plenty big for my wife and me. I use the transit bag and the setup works better than I'd hoped. Most of my camping is in the fall/winter/spring and I have no worries about leaving the fridge un-powered overnight. The setup is well insulated.

I've often thought of using the engel for freezing water jugs during the day (to use in a secondary conventional cooler). Swapping the jugs back and forth. Keeping the food in the secondary too. I just don't have the room.

I use it for parties and around the holidays at my house too for the overflow and beer.

Jon

 

[BMThiker]

I corrected my original post (#15)...

[EDIT] OK, I was mistaken about the built in AC power connector. The owners manual that I downloaded before I purchased it opted to use one illustration to show power connections for both models, so it looks like there is two plug connections, but it is really an either/or illustration depending on the model you got. There are separate AC and DC models of their fridge line. The optional AC adapter is $63.50. So I called FourWinds back and ordered it to arrive with my backordered cover.

 

[e9999]

FWIW, I have found in the past that AC adapters can often be bought in generic form at very low cost. Some even with variable voltages and various common plugs. Very easy to rewire too. And most folks have a ton of these things at home. Of course, need to match voltage, current, and right plug.

 

[alia176]

Most of the technical jargon has been covered so I'll hit the ergonomics dept. The lid. Having a lid that opens in the proper fashion is worth looking into as it can really enhance the fridge experience. I converted the Engel 40q lid to open sideways and this has worked out fantastically! No more does the wife get a lid slamming down on her noggin and the sailor in her wakes up violently!

Anyway, food for thought.

 

[overhanger]

I have the Waeco CF-50 and like it's overall capacity. We use it in a variety of different applications from holiday time house refrigerator overflow to 2-7 day off-road tours. On longer trips I just cycle the beer, V8, etc. in as the coldies are depleted.

I think the size is perfect overall: I wouldn't want anything smaller and couldn't come up with the space for anything larger.

Ditto. WAECO CF-50 COOLMATIC 52 QUART 12/24 VOLTS / 110 VOLT PORTABLE REFRIGERATOR / FREEZER WITH COMPRESSOR Joe is very helpful and cut a deal when I asked why shipping for the transit cover was added to the shipping costs of the fridge. We love our 50 quart.

 

[reffug]

Just get one big one IMO.

Oh and on a sidenote ARB fridges wreck really well.

 

[woooody]

I have the ARB 61 -- It's damn big. takes up half of the rear of my 40. Plenty of space for a week long trip. If I did it again, I'd buy the 41. Unless height is an issue, the 31 is just too small.

 

[reffug]

I've got the 62 qt and its nice to only have one imo. and it holds everything including the beer and whatnot. unless you want two different temps. as in fridge and freezer I would suggest going big. so it takes up half the back of the 80 so what, all your stuff is right there and cold. JMHO