Camper Van Fridge Installation

 Camper Van Fridge Installation. We installed a new Alpicool CX50 12v Compressor RV fridge in our conversion campervan.  

This new 12v fridge is larger and more efficient than our previous fridge allowing us to store more food and drink for longer weekend adventures. 

Keep Reading To See How We Install A New Alpicool CX50 12v RV Fridge In Our Weekender Van Life Ram ProMaster Conversion Van

Installing A New 12V Fridge In Our Conversion Campervan

Scroll Down For The Video👇

We owned and used a Dometic CF-25 12v fridge for the longest time. Being used in two of our previous vehicles, it went on many adventures and served many cold drinks in that time. We hesitated for a while before weighing up the benefits of upgrading.

Benefits Of Upgrading Our 12v Van Fridge Installation

• More Food Storage 

25 liters of fridge storage is not enough space for extended time adventures. Previously we would supplement fridge space with our imitation Yeti Roadie 20. Now we will have 50 liters of food storage space, which is more than enough for our weekend and day trip adventures. 

• Less Chance Of Untimely Failure 

Given the age of our previous fridge, we figured it would fail soon. You have to think a new fridge is going to be more reliable? We will see. 

• More Efficient 

Modern compressor technology makes for more efficient fridge operation. 

• Low Cost Upgrade 

We found this new fridge on sale at Princess Auto. It is less than half the price of the big-name brand before going on sale. Factor in the discount and resale value of our old fridge and we have a new larger fridge at an affordable price. 

Where To Buy

Alpicool Store On Amazon

Modifying Our Existing Van Fridge/Sink Unit To Fit The New 12V Compressor Fridge

Design Thinking

A breakdown of different design elements.

• Modifying The Existing Frame

Our existing fridge frame incorporates a sink and water faucet into the design. Rather than scrap this completely, we will reuse the sink portion and make it work with the new fridge. 

• Ratchet Strap

Previously the fridge was held in place by a wooden frame. The new fridge will be tied down to the wall frame using a Ratchet Strap.  

• Electrical Connection 

We will power our 12v campervan fridge from the van’s electrical system. There is a 12v cigarette lighter socket ready to accept the plug in power supply cable included with the fridge. 

The Video

The Tools and Materials 

• Ryobi Sliding Mitre Saw
• Milwaukee 12v Drill Driver
• Drill Bit Set
• Jigsaw
• Quick Grip Bar Clamps 
• Socket and Wrench Set
• ¼-20 Threaded Wood Inserts
• One Step Stain and Polyurethane
• Paint Brushes 
• Wood Glue 
• Assorted Hardware 

The How – How We Install A New 12v Fridge In Our ProMaster Conversion Van

Disclaimer! This is how we completed this project. DO NOT take this information as professional advice. Do your research and make your own decisions accordingly. 

Step-1 Disassemble and Remove the Old Fridge Sink Unit

Removing the old Fridge Sink Unit was quick, first, we removed the sink bowl and faucet before lifting off the counter. Once the counter was gone the fridge could be lifted out of its enclosure and frame unbolted and removed. 

Step-2 Lift and Strap the New Fridge in Place

Securing the new fridge into place is as easy as lifting and ratchet strapping tight. The ratchet straps are hooked to factory tie-down points repurposed bolted to our Unistrut track system. 

Step-3 Re-Mount Converter Charger

Our 12v Converter Charger was installed on the side of the old frame and had to be removed. We built a stand-off to allow it to be reinstalled above our DC-DC charger. 

Step-4 Modify the Sink Counter and Water Tank Cover

Using a jigsaw, we modified the old sink countertop, reusing pieces to create a small “side-splash” lip to neaten the transition. 

Our 12v Van Fridge Installation Is ✅ 

All done and installed, our new Alpicool CX50 12v fridge is ready to use in our Ram Promaster Conversion. It is efficient, has a large capacity, and doesn’t take up any more space in the garage. We are excited to use it on our future adventures.

Share Your Thoughts 

Have you installed or are you planning to install a rooftop tent in your van? Have some knowledge to share? Drop a comment in the box 👇👇

More From Weekender Van Life

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• Van Electrical System

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• Installing a Roofnest Falcon XL Rooftop Tent on Our Ram ProMaster Van
• Roofnest Falcon Keder Cord Adjustment

Our Most Popular Van Electrical Projects 

• 12v LED Dimmer Switch
• DC Charger Install 
• Installing USB Chargers and 12V Sockets
• Renogy 500A 12V Battery Monitor Install

As always, thank you for taking the time to visit Weekender Van Life. And remember, always take the road less traveled!

Weekender Van Life – Van Life Blog – weekendervanlife.