>closed and only open it to get stuff out.  I imagine it would make ice
>cubes if I ran it long enough, but I think that would drain the battery
>if I wasn't on the road all day...

>I'm thinking about doing the dual battery setup so that I can keep the
>fridge running when I'm camped, but that's more $$$ and would require me
>to get over my fears of frying the electrical system.

I am guilty of having an opinion without owning one of these, but what the
heck....

When I checked on those types of coolers some time back, I recall being
stunned at the power consumption. I do not recall the exact wattage
rating, but it is not a battery operated device. I did, however, think it
might be useful for just what you say; plug it in while driving and help
the ice keep longer. Rather than use a deep cycle battery to run the
thing, it might be better to try one of those xtreme coolers, or just
spend the money on ice, rather than buying a power pig like these coolers
are.

There is no magic in how they work. They use a lot of power, just like a
regular refrigerator, only they are exposed to a lot more heat. Check the
box for the wattage or the amps and I think you will see what I mean.

Just another opinion.....

Regards,

John