Old chesscold fridge

I have one of the 50ltr thats over 30 years old.

12volt - forget it, may and say may just keep temp, drawing huge amps

240 works good

Gas works very good. You would use 9kg bottle in about 7-10 days

About the temp control - on lowest possible will do as fridge. Move off the min and you are talking freezer.

Not sure why its not cooling on 240v when you have heat, but it works on gas. Try shutting down then turn upside, sideways etc for a while in each position

As I recall with mine, years back...gas is the star performer, 240v is adequate...12v is only of use while mobile, with a pre-chilled fridge (and supported by the tug’s alternator...as mentioned, the 12v cycle draws a lot of power). As mentioned above, tipping the fridge right over, to and fro sideways will stir up the fluid and can be useful as a tactic. Also, I think the thermostat only works on the gas cycle...probably, the 12 and 240 are just ‘on’.

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As an aside, long ago I undertook a refrigeration mechanic course during my electrical apprenticeship. We spent most of the year studying compressor systems, then finally we got to domestic absorption fridges which were then powered by a kerosene flame.

We studied the principle of operation then the instructor got to troubleshooting. I can remember his words still today............ "The best advice I can give you is to take it out onto the back lawn and roll it around for a while. Put it back into the kitchen, come back next day, and by the Grace of God it may be working."

In 70 years, nothing's changed.

A computer fan trained on the heat exchanger across the back will improve its 12volt performance.
Mine used to (slowly ) make ice in its teeny ice tray while on 12v.
I had a Gruen many years ago which I think is similar to a Chescold.

Hi Lyndon

Apprently Caravans Plus carry some Chescold parts. Have a look here

Mike

Thanks for all the advice got it going on 240 now seemed to be just because it was a bit out of level can’t believe now level they have to be to work. Sounds like I’ll put the temperature control in the to hard basket just be happy it’s cold. Would it still be a good idea to turn it upside down? Thanks again.