Due to the size of the Basecamp, and the fact its a largish fridge, installation is very poor indeed.
Its not sealed at the back, there is insufficient free depth at the back for airflow, the upper vent is level with the top of the heat exchanger, and worse the gas exhaust outlet exhausts directly into the space at the back and not through a separate grille in the upper vent. The upper vent is in fact a lower vent.
I have done some work on it. It now has two 12v 120mm PC fans fitted to the upper vent exhausting air out. Thought about a thermostatic switch, but decided to go manual, so they are controlled by a RF keyfob relay.
Cost me 7 quid and an hours labour. I am off tomorrow, the fridge is loaded, and its settled in at 5c fridge/-13c Freezer*
My big issue is that the factory fit electric retractable tow ball does not provide +12v at fridge pin in the 13 way socket. Seems to be a common German car omission, one I was aware of at purchase but the tow ball feature was purchased for a bike rack, never had any intention to tow a van.
There are rumours of a split charge loom feature that can be added to provide 12v fridge power. I shall investigate in due course. I may splice a sense relay into the Van/ car interface panel and split the 13.8v charge feed, which does exist, to the fridge as well.
* Went to Waitrose today to fill the fridge, to be met with yawning gaps in produce!
Last edited by: Zero on Sat 24 Jul 21 at 21:32
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