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Imustwander · 06-15-2020, 01:29 PM

Has anyone replaced their Dometic RM8505 3-way fridge? Dometic no longer makes the RM8505. Has anyone found a replacement that fits in the same space?

Airstream is NO HELP. Local dealer unable to come up with an alternative. Any ideas would be really helpful!

Thanks!

dlkershaw · 06-15-2020, 01:55 PM

I replaced the RM8505 3 way fridge May 2019.... Finding the fridge was difficult... but our local Camping World Service manager located one in Michigan...(New in a warehouse) cost was $1500 + Fit perfectly and works better than my original.. Best of luck in your search.... I searched for weeks and could not find a replacement to fit the original space.
I contacted DOMETIC a number of times, with NO help in my search...They just didn't care about one sale....The Camping World Rep got a quick response from Dometic. ( I suspect the purchase volume of Camping World made the difference),
Hopefully you have a relationship with Camping World. Although not Airstream, they are helpful when using aftermarket items ( i.e. Dometic).

PB_NB · 06-15-2020, 02:14 PM

If you are okay giving up the propane, how about the new Nova fridge used in the 2020 models? I am sure that the fit is close and could be shimmed as needed to fit.

The good part is that you could close up and seal the 2 big covers on the outside wall. But would need to make an internal vent (the new models have one on the side of the fridge cabinet next to the stove top).

It can still run on the 12V DC so you are not completely chained to shore power.

waninae39 · 06-15-2020, 04:54 PM

here is link
http://www.novakool.com/products/sin...rigerators.htm

which model and size is in the new 2021 AS?

waninae39 · 06-15-2020, 05:14 PM

either the R3800 or R4500 would fit

Opening is 32.5" H and 20.75" W

BUT

the 22fb opening is only 16.5" deep,
R3800 is 18" D
R4500 is 21" D

PB_NB · 06-15-2020, 05:22 PM

From the 2020 Bambi Parts Book: 690736 Refer-Nova Cool, 4.3 CU. FT

http://www.novakool.com/documents/Sp...cLTCurrent.pdf

Look at the 4.3 CU.FT on this sheet. This one looks close but I can't confirm the numbers as Airstream use different part numbers in their book.

Model R4500 Nova Cool
Cut Out - 28 3/8" x 20 1/4x21"
Flange Dimension - 29 1/4" x 21 1/8"
Panel Single Door - 28" x 19 5/8"

I would confirm this as being the one with the support people at Nova Cool.

PB_NB · 06-15-2020, 05:39 PM

It looks like used all the space that is reserved for pre-2020 22FB for exterior venting from the propane system. Maybe they were able to use a deeper model due to the wider trailer and deeper cabinet.

It may be possible to install a similar Nova Cool model in the narrower Sport with some sort of a mod to the vent area as well as a face plate of some sort.

I know that if it were me, I would be happy to close up the outside vents and use that space for a 12V DC fridge. I see these vents as a potential leak source.

Piggy Bank · 06-15-2020, 07:53 PM

Maybe check over in the boating community and see if there is an option there.

Imustwander · 06-16-2020, 10:10 AM

@dkershaw Thanks for sharing your experience. This fridge has been a problem from day one. It's also really loud! I will check with Camping World to see if there's something they can do...

Love my little trailer, but little tweaks make all the difference!

Imustwander · 06-16-2020, 10:13 AM

@PB_NB Thanks for the reply. I definitely want to keep the 3-way option if possible. We boondocks on occasion and I like to use the 12v option when towing to conserve propane. But you never know. I may need to do something different if this one dies.

ChrisnPatty · 06-16-2020, 11:30 PM

Have you tried Ebay? Looks like you can pick one up for under $1000 plus $200 shipping.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/DOMETIC-850...0AAOSw9rJepKAv

guskmg · 06-17-2020, 12:38 AM

I used the following <rvcool.com>, 1-800-515-6823, to rebuild my Dometic. The owner is named Wick and it is a family operation. He R&R&R'ed my Dometic five years ago and it is still working great. He will also receive, repair and ship your cooling unit. I asked him how long he has been rebuilding the Dometics and at the time he said 19 years. I then asked him how many comebacks, and he said none. I see he has now been at it 24 years and I would bet still no returns. He completely re-plumbs the cooling unit with a heavy duty swirl tubing to improve the original Dometic flow. Everything will be all new with no patch work. I think my job at his place took four hours and about $650. A lady next door let me spend the night in her Day Care parking lot. That is a good solution to needing a new refer that is almost non-existent.
guskmg

Imustwander · 06-22-2020, 06:07 AM

@gskmg thanks very much for giving me the info for the repair man. That is a good find. I will get in touch. Unfortunately, the only thing wrong with my fridge is the eyebrow control board. I am certain if I could get my hands on a replacement, the unit would be just fine. But I will give him a call to see if perhaps he can track one down.

Thanks again for the share!

Imustwander · 10-21-2020, 03:38 PM

@DKershaw I camped with my fridge not having an on/off button all summer and it was mostly ok, but definitely not ideal when I was finished and wanted to put the trailer away (not on shore power). I just had to use the battery disconnect to turn it off.

I was close to ordering a new refrigerator when I gave Ebay one more look. I was so lucky to find the exact eyebrow board available for a seller in the U.K. It was $321.00 and worth every penny. So glad to finally get this off my list especially since I'm selling my Sport 22 after picking up a "new to me" 2020 23' Globetrotter FBT last weekend. Sad to see her go, but looking forward to having a little more room and dual axels.

Hope all is well!