Fridge help

[Nelmes]

I just got a 3 way fridge. It was working 4 years ago when the unit it was in was parked. It is a domestic RM36F. I have given it a quick surface clean and plugged it in, but nothing happens.

Any recommendations on what to do?

I have not been able to find the manual for this model online, and tips on where to look?

Any help is greatly appreciated!!

[Roy in TO]

Don't forget it takes a while for these to start working.

Looks like there is a manual for the RM 36 in the document centre:
Fiberglass RV - Document Center - Refrigerators

The diagnostic manuals are helpful in troubleshooting. It does not matter what model.

[David Tilston]

I would check to see if it is drawing current. If not the electric heater element may be burnt out.

[Nelmes]

Thanks Roy, found a document there that has helped!

Dave, I have a volt meter, but am not great with it. How do I test the current draw?

I pulled the heating element out, it is cold. I have gathered the stuff to test 12 volt and propane, but would like to finish trouble shooting the power before moving on.

Thanks both for the help!

[Nelmes]

There is power coming into the fridge (I tested the terminals), but no power at the terminals that lead to the element. I can't find any fuses on the fridge, or in the drawings on in the manual. ??

[Roy in TO]

Originally Posted by Nelmes

There is power coming into the fridge (I tested the terminals), but no power at the terminals that lead to the element. I can't find any fuses on the fridge, or in the drawings on in the manual. ??

Is the switch(es) for 12/120/propane in the right position to have power go to the terminals?

[Nelmes]

Hi Roy.

I got it working on propane.

Plugged in I am still having no luck. I have checked the switches inside the fridge and they all are set to the right thing for 110 operation. Power is coming into the fridge, but there is no power at the terminals to the element.

I can't find a fuse. Not sure what to try next.

[Friz]

The thermostat is in the line, see if you can find the terminals. With the knob all the way cold, the contacts should be closed.

Ideal troubleshooting tool: A 150 watt bulb/socket with wires ending in insulated clip leads. Connect it across the thermostat (open). If it lights up half bright, the element is ok. If it lights full bright, the element is shorted. No light, heating element is open or thermostat is stuck closed.

There are other ways to use the test light to logic this out.

Use hot circuit safety procedures!

[Nelmes]

Thanks Friz! I will need to try this. I did get it working on propane for our trip this last week, but still haven't got electric working. Need to pull it back out and play with it some more.