Dometic fridge problem - Event Date: 09 Mar 2019 - 10 Mar 2019

We’ve had quite the runaround with our dealer, Dometic, and Forrest River concerning our Dometic Fridge, model # RM8501 in our Rpod 179. It worked fine on either propane or shore for 4 years, then quit working on propane a few months ago. Our dealer determined it was the computer board, ordered a new one, supposedly tested it out for two days, assured us it was working, and we paid a good amount to bring it home. Within 24 hours it was apparent it wasn’t working. We called them and took it back in. They worked on it a little more, then they talked to a Dometic Technician, who told them this model wasn’t really built to keep things cold on propane. Well, it did for 4 years, and why would Forrest River put a fridge like that into an RV that’s supposed to be perfect for boondocking?? We are at a standstill-they are reluctant to give us any money back and we want a fridge that works on propane. 

Well, I don't like the statement that "they" talked to Dometic.

I'm sorry about the problems you have had with your dometic fridge.  We also have a 2014 179 and I have had the same problems. The fridge worked great for the first three years and then I had the same  problems trying to bring the temp down with gas.  I have worked on this problem for the last year and a half and I have also looked at the idea of replacing the whole unit.  You can only put so much money into a bad product.

Thanks, all. We plan to call Dometic ourselves and we’ll check out the regulator. Where is that, by the tank or in the refrigerator compartment?

Originally posted by Skyward Thanks, all. We plan to call Dometic ourselves and we’ll check out the regulator. Where is that, by the tank or in the refrigerator compartment?

The regulator is attached by the tank in the front. The pigtail runs from the tank to the regulator. A larger, thicker line runs out of the regulator to provide propane to the appliances. If you disconnect anything, please do check after reconnecting with some solution made up of water and dish detergent (essentially, the same thing you can pay a lot of money for in a little bottle labeled as leak test solution). Some bubble recipes call for adding glycerine to make the bubbles last longer, but for testing, it isn't that vital. As long as you can blow bubbles with it (think kids bubble solution and wands), it will work.