2001 T4 California RC 1140-1 Fridge

[Trail Planner]

The Dometic RC 1140-1 Fridge on my 2001 California Event has died :-(

I'll post the full story of my attempts to find a new one, but in the meantime, does anyone have any experience of fitting the Vitrifrigio TL43 as a replacement?

The size is right, except the TL43 is 20mm taller, which should be compensated for by the thinner lid, or a bit fo carpentery.

It is clear it will not integrate with the control panel, but can be operated independently, as long as it has a 12V supply. It even has silent night mode

My options so far:

1) repair the current one, which means fitting a new internal coolant array inside of the fridge (like the RC 1140 earlier model)
2) source a new one
3) fit a TL43
4) fit another type of fridge in the cupboard (absolutely the last resource)

or, is it even conceivable to fit a T5/T6 Cali fridge? I would think the control unit integration would be a stumbling block.

Any help would be most welcome.

When I get it resolved, I may have a compressor, and control unit (which is the part that usually fails).

 

[sidepod]

I’d just take the old out and drop it off at Penguin. They’ll repair it. Seems the best easiest option to me without seeing any photos.

 

[Trail Planner]

They looked at it, controller, compressor all ok, the internal array is corroded beyond repair. They are a great team and have been very helpful. What they did offer is to place a new array inside the fridge, like the older RC 1140 in earlier T4 California (1990s or thereabouts).

 

[sidepod]

If that allows you to keep the original unit and it’s as good as it was then I’d do that.

 

[Trail Planner]

Not exactly original in the sense that a new evaporator board is installed inside the coolbox, and not integrated within its walls. This is the difference between the RC 1140 and the RC 1140-1.
Nevertheless this may be the way to go.

 

[Trail Planner]

I have found a solution to the failed RC-1140-1 fridge in my 2001 T4 California Event.

The TL43 unit from Penguin Refrigeration works a treat, and they have been wonderful in helping me find a solution. I couldn't source an original due to import issues (thank you, Brexit), which was well over £1200.

Penguin Kuranda | 40 Litre Top Loading Fridge or Freezer, 12/24Volt

penguin-kuranda.co.uk

With a bit of carpentry, it fits well, except that the lid is too large for the closing lid, but you can use velcro to attach it. You have to lose some trimmings, but it fits snuggly, and the fan is situated to blow through the existing vent.

The 12V circuit from the original fridge can be rewired, and you will lose the control panel operation in exchange for the internal controls. The fridge is quiet and efficient, and much deeper than the original, with useful trays.

Highly recommended and huge thanks to the team at Penguin.

btw, fitting this fridge to a T5, T6 is possible, but very difficult. This is for the Westfalia T4 California only,.