4.3 Cubic ft. 3-way Dometic Fridge

[cpaharley2008]

Can any of owners of this model give some feed back on it's performance, particularly in hot weather. I'm trying to compare models, thanks.

[Jubal]

http://www.escapeforum.org/forums/f3...-3-a-6058.html
It did not cool well adequately even after extensive modifications !

[DonF]

The RM8551 refrigerator has performed satisfactorily for us without any extensive modifications. For a report on performance during a trip last spring, see #105
We been on two lengthy trips since then without any problems. On both of those trips, we did experience a few days of temps between 90 - 100 but for not as long of periods as our spring trip to the Southeast.
For the last couple of weeks, we've been experiencing overnight lows in the 60's and highs in the mid 80's. On control setting 4, the freezer has been a few degrees on either side of 0, the refrigerator a few degrees on either side of 30.

[MyronL]

Here is an early log of testing I did at the time, if you don't want to wade through that long and windy thread. I have since also added a manual on/off switch for the cooling fans in back, for added control. Glad I did.

[MyronL]

Here is another log of RM8551 observations I made.

[JStelly]

I can provide only anecdotal evidence. We took delivery on our 19 last August. It took us three weeks through WA, OR, NV, UT, NM and finally TX. Outside temps varied from the 70s to the high 90s. We are very happy with the performance of the fridge. We kept it full most of the time and ran on either shore power or battery while traveling. There was only one day where it felt warmer than it should have been. We kept ice in the small ice tray (for my evening beverage) and I was never disappointed. Overall, we are very happy with the size (volume) and ability to maintain temps. BTW, I have made no modifications. It is factory spec.

[cpaharley2008]

Myron,
Do you know what the draw in 12v that model uses while in 12v mode?

[Zardoz]

IMHO, the most beneficial thing that can be done to help all RV refrigerators is to insulate the begeebers out of the cavity behind it and to ensure proper air flow with active, switched fans and a flue that meets manufactures specs.

[MyronL]

No, Jim, the best I can do is point to the battery readings I recorded from on my remote battery monitor.

[DonF]

Originally Posted by cpaharley2008

Myron,
Do you know what the draw in 12v that model uses while in 12v mode?

Jim,
I've measured as high as 10 amps when my 4.3 is on 12v.
Don

[cpaharley2008]

thanks for the info...