The fridge can be operated on propane while driving. However, it does need
to be turned off when refueling. Also, the later fridges that have the
electronic spark igniter need to have that turned off also. While it may
usually be safe to refuel while the propane is lighted, in the event of a
spill or other accident gasoline fumes could get drawn into the combustion
chamber and then ignite. How long does it take to turn off the fridge before
getting fuel? Relight it after pulling away from the pump. You're probably
going for a potty stop after fueling anyway.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
David Beierl
Sent: Tuesday, May 19, 2009 10:12 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Fridge blows out while driving....

At 09:36 PM 5/19/2009, Joy Hecht wrote:
>battery.  You just have to remember, when you park for more than a little
>while, to switch it over to propane, and then to switch it back to battery
>when you drive again.

That's a significant inconvenience.  If there were a good reason,
fine; but I question the reason.

>Why do you want flames burning in your van while you drive anyway?

Where does the idea come from that operating the fridge while
underway is in any way more dangerous than operating it while
standing still?  The entire combustion system is enclosed in
steel.  The flues are high on the van body where they are unlikely to
encounter fumes even at a fueling stop.  If the system should be
violently breached, the tiny flame will surely blow out and the gas
valve will close as designed.

The manufacturers clearly expected it to be run under way, otherwise
it would have been placarded with warnings forbidding such
operation.  The fridge with its flue system is approved for RV
operation by the relevant licensing body.  I'd appreciate some
discussion of this at a more serious level than "it's obvious."

  --
David Beierl - Providence RI USA -- http://pws.prserv.net/synergy/Vanagon/
'89 Po' White Star "Scamp"