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Old 10-29-2012, 08:31 PM   #1
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Default Self-leveling frig

After we returned from the Leisure Time dealer yesterday, my wife was recounting one of her complaint about our old Coachmen B. She reminded me of all of the times when the van was level enough for our use, but we had to make another leveling pass for the frig. I had explained how a modern frig is a little more tolerant of being less than perfectly level. She suddenly asked why no one makes a self-leveling frig.

That set me to thinking. It really wouldn't be that difficult to create one. The cabinetry would need to be slightly larger to accommodate the levelers and dampers, but it wouldn't be very expensive to make. I wonder why none of the B converters haven't tried this.
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Old 10-29-2012, 08:53 PM   #2
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Default Re: Self-leveling frig

I think the off-level tolerance is better than it used to be so the RV manufacturers would not see the need. ( edit: forgot the not: would not )

Dometic:

Quote:
The vehicle needs to be leveled only so it is comfortable to live in (no noticeable sloping of floor or walls).
When the vehicle is moving, the leveling is not critical, as the rolling and pitching movement of the vehicle will pass to either side of level, keeping the liquid ammonia from accumulating in the evaporator tubing.
and a Norcold fridge FAQ shows:
Quote:
How level must the refrigerator be?

If you have a gas absorption refrigerator, normal leveling of the vehicle is sufficient. The refrigerator is made to operate within 3 degrees off level side-to-side and 6 degrees off level front-to-back (looking at the front of the refrigerator).
This link: http://rialtainfo.com/thebaldy/winnebag ... _hd-fd.htm shows an exaggerated illustration. The same site explains how to do the calculations. http://rialtainfo.com/thebaldy/winnebag ... or_sts.htm

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Old 10-30-2012, 12:48 AM   #3
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Default Re: Self-leveling frig

I just don't see a need. If 3 deg. tolerance is acceptable for the fridge then it is never going to be a factor of consideration for me. I always seek to level under 1 deg. tolerance just for comfort and sleeping. This whole year with over 100 days on the road I've managed to find sites and level to less than 1 deg. and all I carry are 9 lego blocks.
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Old 10-30-2012, 02:20 AM   #4
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Default Re: Self-leveling frig

Okay, you convinced me not to run out and file a patent application.
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Old 10-30-2012, 01:57 PM   #5
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Default Re: Self-leveling frig

Bs are already pricey. We just don't need anymore added cost.
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