Thoughts on DC cockpit fridge

aero3113

Correct @Handymans342 same way my fridges and ice maker mount in my 330.

Liberty44140

Dometics marketing is just terrible. Yes at first I thought they were all DC only but once you peel back their onion, they make both ac only and dc only. Mine indeed has a 110v plug coming out the back. AC only. 

Handy I see the trim ring but I can tell you it doesn’t come with it. It’s a separate item. If that ring was all I needed to mount I’d be all over it but no way or can support, like aero says it’s like the Rinker fridges where the flange holds it in place but it’s supported from a shelf below 

Dream_Inn

I would think since you easy access on backside that something can be made pretty easily for support.

Liberty44140

Thanks gang, headed to FL tomorrow for a week in the sun! fridge will arrive before my return and then I’ll report back as the plan unfolds! Need to get back on the boat for some measuring. 

Liberty44140

Well the fridge will only fit under the helm. No way it will fit in the step, or the center seat. Not ideal since that is great storage but I’m willing to lose some storage to have an outside fridge. Ran an outlet to the storage area this weekend and hope to install the fridge next weekend. Running marine 12/3 around the engine room was horrible, I’ve got bruises from shoving my body in to places it shouldn’t go. But it’s in and works. Will post pics next weekend. 

Liberty44140

Had some delays on this project because of having to find and buy a frame. Long story but ended up with a free frame just had to paint it to match. Never fun cutting a big hole in your boat but it looks great. This wall was cored with plywood so I painted the wood with epoxy before installing just for good measure. The frame secures it in for the most part but I added one L bracket so it doesn’t budge a bit. It will plug in to the outlet shown but waiting to plug it in until it rests overnight as I did have to prop it upright to get it in. Looking forward to cool beverages this summer! 

PS- the water mark is from me wiping up with simple green after vacuuming. 

Handymans342

Looks great

Dream_Inn

Looks ver nice.  I'm sure it will get some use.

LaRea

Sidetrack (because we've been known to do that here):  What's the fold-down panel on the outboard side of the helm seat?

aero3113

Great upgrade @Liberty44140

Liberty44140

Thanks gang! LR that is/was a storage area. The pictures of the side of the new fridge are through that side panel. Rather than put the fridge in that panel i put it under the helm so I’d still have some storage under the seat. Still room for life jackets, tools, etc.... but not too much as the fridge needs air. 

aero3113

@Liberty44140 , I think @LaRea is talking about this panel. I was wondering what it is also? Is it a step to allow you to stand taller?

Liberty44140

Ahh sorry, yes you are right that is a fold down platform for giving the captain a boost if needed. Cruisers bow does not taper down at the tip as much as a SR or Rinker so that helps me see if I choose to not use much tab. 

Can’t find a pic of the platform down but you can tell I’m getting a 5” boost and here she is running with pretty much no tab down...

LaRea

Add ballast in the chain locker!  BTW the expression on your dog's face is priceless.  

Liberty44140

LOL that is her go to move. If you are talking to her, head is tilted.

Yea this is a pretty typical ride for v-drive. No problem at all getting on plane with a crowd aboard, just the way she rolls. The 08' SR 40 we run with rides the same. I've added drop fins to the tabs this year so I intend to use more tab but I am considering adding the chain as many of you have. Definitely have to tab down to use radar. My brain always says don't use the tabs unless needed which I think is not the right mindset. 

LaRea

By bringing the bow down, you'd likely gain efficiency by getting the prop axis closer to horizontal.  Interesting test:  Put a bunch of heavy items up in the v-berth, like a heavy cooler, tools or whatever you have.  See if it changes your MPG.

Liberty44140

Very interesting. Always thought more tab and more bow down equals more drag and more fuel consumption. Will play with this. Admiral would love to be able to see over the bow while rubbing!