Yes, it works better on 110V or propane than 12V.
Try running it on 110V  for a few hours before trying the propane.
Lighting it with a match? That's the first time I have heard that. The hole inside is
actually where a short piece of clear Plexiglas rod belongs which enables you to see
the flame, but it is much easier to watch the LED on the control panel to see when it
lights.
----- Original Message -----
From: "Chris" <superluckyninja@YAHOO.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Sunday, May 18, 2003 11:58 PM
Subject: [Q] was: 12V substitutes for OEM Dometic refrigerator / fridge?

> on the topic of fridges......
>
> is running it off of propane more powerful? I assume
> it will run much longer than off my second battery.
>
> I have a westy that i got recently. I have figured out
> how to opperate most everything except running the
> fridge off of propane. I have a manual for the camper
> conversion, but it is for the wrong year. I can tell
> slight differences in the pictures of the fridges.
>
> Does anyone know if there is a trick as I have
> followed the instructions in the manual and on the
> inside of the fridge. The previous owner mentioned
> having to light the pilot light with a match through a
> hole on the inside of the fridge..... i think. does
> this sound right? Could my pilot starter [ the button
> inside the fridge ] be broken?
>
> battery power is nice while driving, but i go places
> where there is no AC and my secondary battery dies in
> a day of fridge use.
>
> thanks in advance.=]
>
> -chris
> 90' westy