I have a 2006 Hunter 33 and find the factory installed ice box very small and ineffective. I want to replace it with something deeper and with better cooling capability. Has another done this successfully ???
replace factory installed ice box
- Thread starter wrlong
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Yes I replaced the icebox with a portable Waeco Fridge/Freezer which just fitted in. I forget the model no but it is the only one in their range which comes close to the dimensions.
The mods. required were:
1. Extend the countertop cut out to the rear bulkhead (approx 30mm); cut with a fine hacksaw so it can be neatly replace with a sikaflex joint.
2. Remove the mains socket above the countertop and relocate. This is required as it is in the way when you have to slide the unit in (very tight fit)
3. Fit a couple of right angle brackets on the fore and aft bulkheads to positively locate the unit so it doesn't slide around. Also make sure that the unit is located away from each side of the compartment so as to avoid impeding the airflow inlet and exit.
4. Wire the unit up to the harness at the back of the existing fridge and add a switch in the new compartment. The wiring logic is when the main breaker on the panel is on and the new switch is on both units are capable of running. (The Waeco unit has its own on/off switch) If you want only the original fridge off then you just put the new switch into the off position.
5. Add a couple of ss hinges to the port side of the lid to make opening easier and add a timber lip on the other side so it stays level when down. The corian drills easily but use small bolts not screws to secure.
I use the Waco two ways firstly on short or weekend cruises as a drinks only fridge and secondly on longer trips as a freezer.
My three 80 watt solar panels take care of all the power required.
I've had this set up for two years now without any problems.
If you email me direct, see owners list, I will send some pics.
The mods. required were:
1. Extend the countertop cut out to the rear bulkhead (approx 30mm); cut with a fine hacksaw so it can be neatly replace with a sikaflex joint.
2. Remove the mains socket above the countertop and relocate. This is required as it is in the way when you have to slide the unit in (very tight fit)
3. Fit a couple of right angle brackets on the fore and aft bulkheads to positively locate the unit so it doesn't slide around. Also make sure that the unit is located away from each side of the compartment so as to avoid impeding the airflow inlet and exit.
4. Wire the unit up to the harness at the back of the existing fridge and add a switch in the new compartment. The wiring logic is when the main breaker on the panel is on and the new switch is on both units are capable of running. (The Waeco unit has its own on/off switch) If you want only the original fridge off then you just put the new switch into the off position.
5. Add a couple of ss hinges to the port side of the lid to make opening easier and add a timber lip on the other side so it stays level when down. The corian drills easily but use small bolts not screws to secure.
I use the Waco two ways firstly on short or weekend cruises as a drinks only fridge and secondly on longer trips as a freezer.
My three 80 watt solar panels take care of all the power required.
I've had this set up for two years now without any problems.
If you email me direct, see owners list, I will send some pics.
Thanks Nick...that might be the path i go...will see if i can get a replacement ice box type (non powered) before I introduce the type of unit you did. by the way great fix. Stay tuned...
Just remember that when you start modifying something like this you may end up with a boat that becomes slightly less desireable than one that was left stock.
If you add a refrigeration unit to the existing box, you may not need additional storage space. The evaporator plate or holding plates are very small and can keep you box cold without the need for ice (they can even make ice cubes.
Unfortunately I do not remember this model, so I may be off the mark. If you decide to go to refrigeration, I suggest that you take a look at an Isotherm SP unit.
If you add a refrigeration unit to the existing box, you may not need additional storage space. The evaporator plate or holding plates are very small and can keep you box cold without the need for ice (they can even make ice cubes.
Unfortunately I do not remember this model, so I may be off the mark. If you decide to go to refrigeration, I suggest that you take a look at an Isotherm SP unit.
Are you talking the area in the counter beside the stove where the top load freezer is installed as the upgrade? Do you have the factory installed front load fridge?
You could install a std front load fridge or the factory style freezer, I'm not sure the make. We turn down the freezer and use it as a fridge when the regular fridge gets too full.
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