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Norcold Refrigerator Model 682 Replacement

February 09, 2011, 01:30:58 pm

Mine is still working, but 15 years old.  Would like to be prepared when it dies.  According to Norcold's URL a model 841 (N841) has the same cutout dimensions and is the model to replace the old one.  Does a side window on a 1996 U270 have to be removed to get it out, or is it possible to remove it through the front door?  If you replaced yours how long did it last, or is yours exceptionally old and still working?  The Dometic in my 89 Georgie Boy lasted 12 yrs.  First step I think would be to remove the doors to make it lighter and smaller.  I also saw the suggestion in some searches to make a platform to slide it onto, but the other questions I could not find clear answers for.  Have decided not to replace the cooling unit or install a home type 120 volt refrigerator.  Thanks. 

P.S.  Manufacturers instructions say to leave room for air to circulate, yet the manufacturers pictures show their products stuffed to the gills, typical.

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Re: Norcold Refrigerator Model 682 Replacement

Reply #1 – February 09, 2011, 01:41:45 pm

Jerry,
I still have my Norcold 982 (no element between freezer & main box) with some rusting in the outside compartment which I plan to repair this spring.  I believe the main problem with the life of an absorption unit is condensation and the ensuing rusting (from inside the coils?) each time the unit is turned off.
 
If you never turn off an absorption refrigrator, it will last well over 20 years (words of wisdom from my father-in-law[RIP] who got me into the RV style).
 
If you can change the fuel hose on your genset...you can take that fridge out the front door...I'm sure of it...

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Re: Norcold Refrigerator Model 682 Replacement

Reply #2 – February 09, 2011, 02:31:34 pm

A buddy of mine with a '95 U320 changed out his frig a few years ago.  He says going through a side window was far easier.  He removed the whole window frame.  The windows come out pretty easy - strip of rubber molding and frame screws.  Usually the putty holds on to it pretty good but he said to be ready with a helper so it doesn't fall out unexpectedly.

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Re: Norcold Refrigerator Model 682 Replacement

Reply #3 – February 09, 2011, 04:53:35 pm

From what I've read lately, I put in one of these cooling units from RV Cooling Unit Warehouse..  Suppose to be a much better constructed, better operating,  cooling unit than the brand name units.  But first I would see if they was anyway of putting a residential unit in there.

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Re: Norcold Refrigerator Model 682 Replacement

Reply #4 – February 09, 2011, 05:52:56 pm

Jerry:
My reefer is also about the age of yours I guess and it works OK as long as the temperatures do not exceed 80 degrees for more than a day.  The freezer has not dropped below 10 degrees in a long time.  I actually do not know just how cold the freezer should be able to achieve.
We use a dual sensing digital thermometer sold by Miller Thermometer to monitor the unit to avoid dying and are also mentally primed to replace the unit if we have to do it.  It would seem that the side window exit would be the best choice for a do-it-yourselfer but if one were to be ready to push it out and get a new one in, then hiring someone to remove and replace the passenger side windshield might work out to be easier.  I would be very interested in knowing when you replace yours and the methodology you choose.  Also, any pitfalls.
Regards,

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Re: Norcold Refrigerator Model 682 Replacement

Reply #5 – February 09, 2011, 08:45:07 pm

We planning to replace our working Norcold 682 with a Whirlpool electric fridge purchased from Lowes.

Freezer On Top Refrigerators ET0MSRXTL from Whirlpool Home Appliances

Shop for et0msrxtl at Lowes.com

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