Refrigerator Replacement

[gmacd81]

We went to boat on Friday and found that the Norcold DE-461 fridge decided to retire. I've found two models that fit the cutout perfectly, the Norcold DE-0061 and Vitrifrigo DP2600i. Specs are comparable but I've seen negative reviews on the new Norcolds.

Does anyone have experience with updates using these fridges recently? There is also an issue with the outer cabinet doors that attach to the fridge.

 

[HUMPH]

The way your outer doors attach, I imagine the same configuration needs to be installed. You can't change to a bottom freezer or anything like that. I have heard good things about the Vitrifrigo but also the Nova Kool.

 

[dwna1a]

Which part died on the old fridge?

 

[mistercomputerman]

I installed one of these a month or two ago on a guy's boat down the dock from me. Works like a champ. Comes complete, new compressor, charged with Freon, unfold and bolt into place. Total install time <2hours.
http://rvcoolingunit.com/DE-461-Norcold-Cooling-unit-Compressor-P77262.aspx

 

[JimFromMD]

No experience... but this may be of assistance if you have to replace.
http://clubsearay.com/showthread.php/74441-Summer-Sale

 

[The Bill Collector]

This brand "Vitrifrigo" was installed on my boat in '06 by the PO and it is still running like a champ today....

 

[rondds]

Yet another NOTcold bites the dust. Mine is on it's way out and I'm going to do what Rick (Mistercomputerman) did on his buddy's boat. BTW, Rick's DE 461 died a while back and he did the whole retro-fit install with the Vitrfrigo. His install looks fantastic, but he's a guy who's done both jobs and, given the choice again, would elect to go with the replacement compressor.

I'd have to remove the door on my boat to get the new one in so I'm going to take the easy way out and do the onsite repair. He also said the new compressor gets rid of that horrible compressor "RUMBLE" that I've gotten so used to.

 

[mistercomputerman]

Yep. Been there, done that.

On my boat had to disassemble the fridge cabinet and rebuild it including new Vitricor to install a Vitrifrigo.

On my buddy's boat, we pulled the Norcold, installed the new kit in less than 2 hours and the next day it was 0 in the freezer and 38 in the fridge. Perfect temps with a quiet compressor to boot.

 

[quality time]

I also did the compressor replacement on my 380DA a few years ago. Like Rick said, simple and quick install right there in the salon. No door disassembly or headliner rips etc...


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