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Aage · 04-22-2011, 09:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jmpratt

The fourth pic shows the modified cover. I had to extend the back to fit the new compressor.

I wonder if there is a shroud out there somewhere that would fit over the new assembly? I'm thinking that there could be a risk that a stone popped up from a passing truck or car could damage the cooling fins.

Plus, there's a definite possibility of streamlining it a bit, no?

Inland RV Center, In · 04-22-2011, 10:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Aage

I wonder if there is a shroud out there somewhere that would fit over the new assembly? I'm thinking that there could be a risk that a stone popped up from a passing truck or car could damage the cooling fins.

Plus, there's a definite possibility of streamlining it a bit, no?

The original shroud could be used, if a little of the top was removed to accomodate the "Penthouse".

Easy to do since it's made with fiberglass.

Andy

jmpratt · 04-22-2011, 04:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Aage

I wonder if there is a shroud out there somewhere that would fit over the new assembly? I'm thinking that there could be a risk that a stone popped up from a passing truck or car could damage the cooling fins.

Plus, there's a definite possibility of streamlining it a bit, no?

I have a custom made aluminum shroud for it. I just don't have it on in the picture.

68 TWind · 04-23-2011, 06:34 AM

Thanks so much. I printing this to add to my "Airstream" folder.

lpgasguy · 05-28-2011, 07:58 AM

How is the noise with the new compressor and fan motor? My Armstrong is very loud and I am considering replacing it. However I have a friend that is a HVAC tech who could change the compressor for me. Thanks for the great post

Air2Go2 · 05-28-2011, 08:56 AM

Very informative write-up. Always great to see something brought back to life, rather than just thrown away.

A sort-of related question, if anyone knows the answer:

On the various product descriptions for the Penguin Duo-Therm AC, reference is made to the "shroud/solar panel mount" without any further explanation.

I'm interested in both an AC and future solar panel placement.

Is the Penguin shroud somehow configured to accomodate solar panels?

jmpratt · 05-30-2011, 07:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lpgasguy

How is the noise with the new compressor and fan motor? My Armstrong is very loud and I am considering replacing it. However I have a friend that is a HVAC tech who could change the compressor for me. Thanks for the great post

My guess is it sounds like it did when new. There's a bit of air noise, but it's not from the motor, it's from all the air it pushes. You can hear the compressor when it's running, but it's not nearly as loud as the old one (which was dying).

rideair · 05-30-2011, 09:25 AM

Jason,

Looking at the pictures, it does not look like the newer style compressor is all that much taller than the old one, if any?

Was it the connections that created the extra height?

Aage · 05-30-2011, 10:57 AM

Here's the key information from his first post:

"I bought a new rotary compressor that had a bit more capacity (13k vice 11k BTUs) but pulled less current than the old compressor. I also bought a new fan motor. I also decided to make the unit a heat pump instead of just an a/c. So I bought a reversing valve and new bi-directional filter/drier. Since these old units have capillary tubes instead of TXVs (thermal expansion valves), the refrigerant can flow either direction. "

He completely re-built it with more power, less current draw, and also made it into a heat pump!

I am still astounded.

slowmover · 05-30-2011, 06:23 PM

Very fine work, and thread! Bookmarked. I may never run into one these again. Could have had one for the asking last year, but no trailer and place to store, plus the parts chase dilemma . . . well, I believe I could find a place for it what with all this information.

Plus, a cool custom shroud would sure be a great look on any vintage of aluminum trailer. I like to think that this level of re-building can be extended to the other parts as needed.

Thanks, jmpratt!

.

jmpratt · 05-31-2011, 10:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rideair

Jason,

Looking at the pictures, it does not look like the newer style compressor is all that much taller than the old one, if any?

Was it the connections that created the extra height?

The new compressor and tubing is about 6" taller than the old one. If you use a reciprocating compressor vice a rotary, you won't have to modify the cover.

rideair · 05-31-2011, 10:33 AM

I've seen on the new ac/heat systems they seem to have the same type as yours but in a hoz. mount compressor. Any thoughts?

jmpratt · 06-01-2011, 11:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rideair

I've seen on the new ac/heat systems they seem to have the same type as yours but in a hoz. mount compressor. Any thoughts?

Rotary compressors are made in both horizontal and vertical orientations. I used the one I did because it was available and cheap. A horizontal one will work as well, assuming it would fit.

rideair · 06-01-2011, 12:45 PM

I was thinking if you could use a hoz model thus it might take away the need to changed the cover and still look original?

jmpratt · 06-02-2011, 07:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rideair

I was thinking if you could use a hoz model thus it might take away the need to changed the cover and still look original?

Yes, but you'd have to make sure it fits.

JO (canda) · 04-24-2012, 10:53 PM

Thank you too Jason! Now could you drop by my place and do mine? <G>
I have an original Armstrong too, and it still works, kinda. I wouldn't get much out of it in Phoenix, but in Flagstaff it's more than adequate. But would LOVE a rebuild/refurbish job. Just too old and not savvy enough to do it. Oh well. Will keep this handy just in case.

perryg114 · 04-25-2012, 06:10 AM

You must have some refrigeration experience to do all this, good job on the rebuild. I put a new Dometic on my trailer and still have the old Coleman that needs a fan motor and lots of TLC. A fan motor for mine was $150. I am sure it need the three capacitors replaced as well. I may try to get used parts and fix mine up.

Perry

jmpratt · 04-25-2012, 09:28 AM

My refer experience is just from my tinkering. I'm an engineer, so these things make sense to me. BTW, the unit made it through the whole winter just fine! Toasty warm!

perryg114 · 04-25-2012, 05:56 PM

I thought I smelled another engineer.

Perry

perryg114 · 04-26-2012, 08:11 AM

Since you have gone this far, you could take the parts and make a split system and get rid of the roof box alltogether. There many folks on here that would like such a system the preserves the line of their older trailers. I expect the majority of the stuff could go under a couch or bed. Personally, I don't mind the roof top AC.

Perry