New fridge for a 1987 3207

[iceman3500]

We want to put a new fridge in our boat. The Norcold DE 828 that's in there now shows specs with a cut out of 51 7/8". Any of the replacement models we're looking at (Norcold DE 0061, Vitfrigo 2600, Nova Kool RFU 9000 or 8220) all show a cut out of 52 7/8". Does anyone know if there is an inch of wiggle room on the 3207? I pulled out the old one last summer to try and clean behind it and check things out and, if I remember correctly, there isn't much room. I can't get to the boat right now because it's under 3' of snow. If I am going to be able to replace it, I'm going to need to order something fairly soon to get it to Northern Ontario in time for spring break up. Thanks for the help.

[eric_b]

I have an '86 3227, which had the same Norcold DE828 installed, the layout of our galleys is similar and I will be at the boat tomorrow. I will take measurements to see if it will accomodate the extra width.

[eric_b]

It would be really tight, I looked at my setup and I do not think there is an extra inch. I had forgotten my tape measure, so I did not het exact measurements..

[iceman3500]

Ok, so not too sure we can replace the Norcold with a new 12v/120 v model. I found a 50" tall 120v fridge that looks like it would fit the hole. If we go this route, we'll need to get an inverter. Not too sure how this will work. We currently use 2 6v golf cart batteries for our house system. Had no problems at all last summer. What do I need to do to add an inverter? Are the 2 house batteries enough? When the boat is on shore power, does the fridge still draw power through the inverter and the on board battery charger just keeps topping up the batteries? Any other suggestions would be very helpful. Thanks again.

[Lyndon670]

What you need is a smart inverter. It will act as a battery charger (drop to trickle when necessary) when at the dock, and the instant you disconnect shore power - switches to inverter mode. I did this on my 42 Silverton convertible before I bought the 506.

Extra batteries is only determined by the space you have to place them and how long you plan to be away from the dock with no charging ability. If your only going out for a night and/or don't mind firing the engines up to top up the banks, your current setup will probably be fine. I have always been a fan of the "go big or go home" mentality - nobody ever complained about too much power.

Where are you berthed in Ontario?

[Kjoer]

I have a 1985 Carver 3207 and replaced the Norcold with the Nova Kool model RFU -8220 unit. It has the freezer on the bottom .

[Kjoer]

Did not see post was made in 2013 hope someone else can use the info.

[iceman3500]

Hey Kjoer, did you have to modify the opening at all to get the fridge in? Every spec I've looked at for replacements for the Norcold DE828 are 1" taller.

[eric_b]

Iceman,

I was at the boat again today and measured the opening for the fridge. It is exactly 53" tall, so the new fridge should fit. It would be very tight but it will fit.

Eric

[iceman3500]

Awesome boys. Thanks for the help. Now I must have to cough up $2000 for a fridge.