Key on to make fridge work?

Electrical issues, both 12 volt and 120 volt
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lwrider20
Weekend Camper
Posts: 17
Joined: Sun Jan 31, 2021 2:27 pm

Key on to make fridge work?

Post by lwrider20 »

Hello all,

I have a 91 b190 and just put a new dometic fridge in it. When I bought the van the old fridge was already broken. So after installing the fridge the only way I can get the fridge to turn on is by turning the ignition on. Once the key is turned on it fires right up on shore power and propane. All the interior lights, furnace will work just fine without the key on. Any ideas?

Thanks in advance
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skater
Site Admin
Posts: 2569
Joined: Thu Mar 08, 2007 1:00 am
B190 Year: 1991
WBCCI: 13270
Location: Annapolis, MD

Re: Key on to make fridge work?

Post by skater »

The 12 volt mode for the original fridge was meant to run it while you were on the road, and the fridge didn't require 12 volt power otherwise. Many newer fridges do require constant 12 volt power for the electronics. There's a relay near the fuse panel somewhere that you have to find and rewire it to the coach 12 volt system so it has constant power.

More info here.
1991 Airstream B190 - bought, 2005; sold, 2011; bought 2017
1995 Airstream Excella 30' trailer

WBCCI #13270, Washington, DC Unit
lwrider20
Weekend Camper
Posts: 17
Joined: Sun Jan 31, 2021 2:27 pm

Re: Key on to make fridge work?

Post by lwrider20 »

Great info. Thank you for the help.
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