Rarely will the element short out, when it fails, it fails open. The current
draw of the fridge, any other accessories and charging the battery is
probably too much for that fuse or wiring. The battery alone can draw over
20 amps while charging. Add 8 for the fridge and that 30 amp circuit is
done.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Gilles Turmel
Sent: Sunday, July 30, 2006 10:24 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Problem with fridge on 12V

Hi,
When I use my fridge on 12V from my aux battery while that battery is
being charge by my alternator the fuse on the relay under the driver's
seat blows.  I use the kit from Bus Depot.  I've ordered a Surepower
1315.  In the meantime I've installed a manual switch to separate the
two batteries at startup.  Has anybody replace the 12V element of the
fridge?  If yes what part did you use?
Best regards

Gilles Turmel