I find that my fridge doesn't keep things as cold when it is using the
battery, so I always use the propane.  The only problem is that while
driving, it might not stay lit, though this happens rarely, usually only
when its very windy or I'm driving too fast.  I don't know about other
models, but my '87 has a safety valve that shuts off the gas if the burner
goes out.  That's why you have to hold that button in for a few seconds when
you fire it up - it overrides this until the heat from the lit burner opens
the safety.  So anyway, the only risk of using propane is that your beer
might get warm.  Also, think about installing a second deep-cycle battery so
you never drain your starting battery regardless of what your using power
for.

Brian.

----- Original Message -----
From: "Marla Stelk" <mjstelk@HOTMAIL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Wednesday, November 20, 2002 7:00 AM
Subject: Fridge usage

> Hello everyone,
>
> The electrical consumption rag reminded me that I wanted to ask ya'll
about
> using the fridge while driving.  The instructions that I have for it are a
> bit confusing.  If I put it on electrical (it kind of worries me to drive
> with it using propane - is this irrational?) will I pull too much juice
off
> the battery?  I'm guessing its designed to be used while driving, but not
> sure - never used it before - just got my van a year ago.  The propane
tank
> is all rusted so I don't trust it much at all until I can get a gas guy to
> inspect it for me.  If I'm camped out somewhere, how long can I have it on
> before it kills the battery?  Thanks in advance!
>
> Peace,
> Marla
> '87 Westy Van "Morrison"
>
>
>
>
>
>
> >From: Stan Wilder <wilden1@JUNO.COM>
> >Reply-To: Stan Wilder <wilden1@JUNO.COM>
> >To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> >Subject: Re: Electrical Consumption &  Battery Recharge Calculations
> >Date: Tue, 19 Nov 2002 13:24:57 -0600
> >
> >The actual system will also be supplemented by a small 1000kw Honda Gas
> >Generator. But that's a whole other discussion. Comments Requested
> >Hitting the Trail Soon,
> >  Larry Chase
> >-------------------------------
> >I much prefer the dumb ass method devised many years ago by some dumb
> >ass.
> >Keep everything 12v  and run the engine about 15 minutes twice a day. No
> >second battery no new world mathematical calculations before you turn on
> >your dipstick controlled computer.
> >If you run your battery down, just prevail on the assistance of someone
> >for a jump start.
> >In State or Pay-For-A-View Parks plug in your $12.00 trickle charger.
> >Its the tried and true method to meet people and travel light.
> >
> >Stan Wilder
> >
> >
> >
> >
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>
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