Norcold replacement parts

[Mike Smith]

My reefer went out last weekend and I had a serviceman come out to check it out.  Seems the cooling plate had a leak.  Was told this morning that Norcold does not sell replacement parts, and I will have to order a complete new compressor and plate for $900.  Anyone have a similar experience?

Mike Smith
S/V Breezer
www.mikejansmith.com

[calewis]

I went through the same thing when I bought Carmelita. I turned on the Norcold unit and it got cool once. Norcold is not servicable. That is why I went to Alder barber. It has run non-stop for 2 1/2 years. I always have cold water, beer and ice on the boat.

I mounted the compressor on a shelf under the drawer under the V berth. Even in the Delta near stockton in 100 degree heat, it had no problem. I was at anchor for 3 days before charging the engine. This on 2, 105 amp hour house batteries. I did not need to vent the area. It stayed cool enough with the amount of hull in the water cooling it down.

Chris Lewis

[Mike and Theresa Vaccaro]

Before you replace your system, find a technition that understands refridgeration systems--it might be possible to substitute common parts to keep your system operational.  We recently replaced some relays and the thermostat in our AC/DC unit with parts obtained from an old refridgerator (cost $0) and now it works fine.  Your plate may be reparable, or perhaps there is a compatable plate you could use as a replacement.  Chances are there is a solution that costs less than a grand!

Cheers,

Mike Vaccaro

[jentine]

A competent HVAC technician can epoxy the hole, install a service valve if one doesn't exist and evacuate and refill the system.  It is done all the time.
Jim Kane

[Mike Smith]

West Marine has an updated version of my Norcold, called Norcolder for $599 total.  Serviceman couldn't get it for anything less than $900 (his cost).  The old Norcold worked fine from '88 until now, as far as I can tell, so the new one should get me through 2018! Not bad for $40 a year!

Mike Smith
S/V Breezer
www.mikejansmith.com