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dometic fridge RM 3600
The fridge in my 1987 22' has given up the ghost.  There is a strong ammonia smell when I open it and it does not work any more.  I'm considering replacing the cooling unit as the box is still in excellent condition..  Looking for ideas or suggestions on changing it.  I found the site RV Cooling Unit Warehouse  where they sell remanufactured and new  units. 

Anyone with experience, good or bad, on this replacement project?

1987 22'

Re: dometic fridge RM 3600
Reply #1
John, do a search.  There have been at least one thread by people that either did or were going to replace the cooling unit.  Let us know your experiences.
Jane
Jane & Scott
Currently have a 1989 TK  LD we did a lot of upgrades on.
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Re: dometic fridge RM 3600
Reply #2
The fridge in my 1987 22' has given up the ghost.  There is a strong ammonia smell when I open it and it does not work any more.  I'm considering replacing the cooling unit as the box is still in excellent condition..  Looking for ideas or suggestions on changing it. 

How old is the box? If it's more than, say, 25 years, I'd suggest getting a new fridge, which likely has much better insulation.
2005 Jayco 24SS

Re: dometic fridge RM 3600
Reply #3
I got my cooling unit from JC Refrigeration |

Been very happy with the results! I would only recommend it for folks that have good mechanical experience.

Steve
Steve
2003TK

Re: dometic fridge RM 3600
Reply #4
John,

My fridge's cooling unit failed a little over a year ago, similar symptoms. The service manager at a local RV service center told me that they do many more "cooling unit replacements" than new boxes, that they've had very good luck with them, and, at a lower cost. Like yours, my cabinet was in great condition, so I decided to go with the cooling unit. They completed the replacement in six hours. It's been on ever since and trouble free.

My unit is an RM3662, so certainly unlikely to be the same as yours, but, for reference only, my replacement was a rebuilt Dometic, identified as a Nordic 39-5462. I hope that may be helpful.

Bill
Bill
2003 -- 23' FL

 
Re: dometic fridge RM 3600
Reply #5
If the plastic inside the refrigerator has not become brittle, it can be changed. It is a bit of work, if you are handy, you can do it yourself and save a lot of money. If it is the original refrigerator, consider that the mechanical and electrical parts are ancient and repair parts may not be available. I would install a new one in this case unless the newer models will not fit without modifying the cabinet or may not fit even with modification.
Check out some of the online videos to see if changing the cooling unit is something you wish to attempt yourself.
With careful planning, the change can be done inside the rig, without needing to pass the refrigerator through the window.

If you DIY, build a simple table the same height as the refrigerator' installed height, this allows easier removal and replacement of the refrigerator, plus it's the workbench you need for the change. I built this one out of a few 2X4s.


While the refrigerator is out, it's a good time to insulate the empty compartment. It helps keep the refrigerator temps more consistent in the summer and reduces propane use.
Reinstalling refrigerator | Flickr

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
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