Waeco (Danfoss BD35F) fridge. Can I re-use the evaporator??

[jfkal]

My Waeco compressor has packed up. It kicks in and cuts out (not a voltage problem).
After getting a new compressor can I keep the evaporator plate? I heard they are pre-charged and some say the coupling can only be used once. Has anyone done that? I dont want to spend 400 USD on a 20 bucks worth piece of sheet metal if I dont have to.
Many thanks in advance for your advise.

 

[tillergirl]

When I fitted my Waeco, the gas was pre-sealed in the evaporator. Joining it up to the compressor released the gas into the system. If you break the coupling, the gas will escape. You would think it ought to be possible to recharge the system but the manual is silent on the matter!.

 

[owen-cox]

This is a mixed answer but the answer is yes you can re-use the plate unfortunately you are correct in saying that Waeco connectors are useable only once. However this is only that the fittings have a foil membrane that is punctured when the connection is first made. This means that if you disconnect and connect a new compressor you will lose the gas in the system and air(and moisture) will enter the system. If you were to connect the new compressor you will need to then fully evacuate the system with a vacuum pump and then recharge with fresh R134a refrigerant. I guess it comes down to a balance of how much a local refrigeration engineer is, if he is competent and how much time, effort and cost it is to remove and replace the evaporator. I would recommend if you did get an engineer to re charge the unit that they also remove the quick connectors removing a very likely leak spot from the system and braze the pipes together instead. see the refrigeration section of http://www.coxengineering.co.uk for info on recharging.

 

[steve28]

mine uses couplings that seal them selfs indiviually before they finaly disconnect. when fitting i had to remove the plate a few times and never had any problems. this advice was
given by penguin marine.


steve

 

[owen-cox]

mine uses couplings that seal them selfs indiviually before they finaly disconnect. when fitting i had to remove the plate a few times and never had any problems. this advice was
given by penguin marine.


steve

This only applies to Frigoboat systems as they have self sealing couplings Waeco DO NOT!!

 

[rafiki_]

Waeco fridges are imported by Dometic. They have a phone number bet never answer it. However, you can ask technical questions by e-mail, and these do get answered. Google Dometic and you will find Contact Us.

I had a problem with my Waeco, and eventually sorted it last week. painfully slow progress, and would have been quicker if I could talk to them.

 

[jfkal]

Thanks

Thanks for all the good advice. I guess I go for a new system.