Nelson Spinflo cooker - no longer being made?

[West Coast]

Hi all, replacing the cooker on my new (to me) boat this winter. Had settled on a Nelson Spinflo as had put one in my last boat and was pleased with it.

So, asked local chandlery (who I try to support when I can) to quote latest price for one, only to be told that the Spinflo has ceased production and so is difficult to get. They might be able to find one, but spares could become difficult.

Is this the case - is the Spinflo being withdrawn? Seems a shame!

If so, much to choose between the Neptune 4500 or the Dometic Starlight ? (edit - since found recent thread from Feb this year comparing these 2 cookers which is very helpful)

 

[Concerto]

I was planning to fit a Nelson Spinflo, but thete are definitely no longer made. At the Southampton Boat Show I was looking for the best alternative. The Bainbridge Neptune 4500 is my choice from all those I found at the show.

 

[Quandary]

The Neptune is made in UK it has always been marketed as a boat cooker and its construction, materials and spec. have been improved over the years, originally distributed to the marine market by Plastimo, now by Bainbridge. The Dometic brand is much younger, targeted at the caravan market and while it may be better, somehow I doubt it, though like most on here, just because I know nothing about it does not inhibit me from expressing an opinion. We like toast and the Neptune has an acceptable grill, the Neptune in our boat is 12 years old, it is the fifth one we have owned and still fine, though we would like the newer model's automatic ignition. When we bought our Finngulf new, my wife was tasked with choosing the cooker she chose the Neptune in preference to the more expensive standard French offering.

 

[West Coast]

Thanks all, I think I will have a go at finding a spinflo and maybe take a risk on spares. If unsuccessful, fall back to the Neptune

 

[michael_w]

Dometic cookers are riveted together. Easy to make, but very hard to repair.

 

[Minchsailor]

No great loss, the Spinflo on my boat rusted badly.

 

[LadyInBed]

I went for the Domestic Starlight, mainly because of stainless steel oven and grill and easy lift off top for cleaning

 

[KINGFISHER 9]

Should have saved your question for today …… the 21st …. :encouragement:

 

[sailorman]

we have a SMEV, its been faultless for 19 yrs of mainly normal working folks cruising, w/e & holidays

 

[doug748]

Thanks all, I think I will have a go at finding a spinflo and maybe take a risk on spares. If unsuccessful, fall back to the Neptune

Marine Bazaar in Plymouth had one in stock, when I was in there a short while ago.
I have had one for 15 years and not yet required any spares.

 

[West Coast]

So, checking this morning, no Spinflo Nelsons to be had! Neptune 4500 it is

 

[West Coast]

Update - spoke direct to Thetford, the manufacturers. Seems they have not stopped making the Spinflo Nelson, indeed they have a small stock in the factory. They gave me names of various distributors who are authorised stockists in attempt to find a retailer. However, it seems it is the distributors who are the problem, deciding not to stock (hence retailers advising it is no longer available). Their choice, obviously made for commercial reasons, but I am left in the daft position of not being able to buy one as Thetford cannot deal direct.

Hey ho, time to move on.