Isotherm Fridge Install - Huge Upgrade! - How to build an Overlander!

[@mgd09050]

I believe the Isotherms use a magnets around the weather stripping for a really good seal. That may be the stiffness you're finding while opening.

[@Everlanders]

Correct! I've since figured this out, we've gotten used to it and it's not such a big deal...

[@ADefenestrator]

I'd say the problem is more the latch design than anything. It looks like you basically have to pinch a slick thin piece of stainless to pull it out, and if they put more of a handle or a loop on it it'd be a lot easier.

[@KylesLMTVtinyhouse]

Thanks for another great video. I appreciate the way you break things down. I feel like so many build channels just assume the viewer is already a master of everything before they explain anything.

[@micahc9509]

Yeah, I completely agree. This is probably the most informative overland channel on youtube.

[@jeffcampsall5435]

You know you’re Canadian when you use “Beauty” as an exclamation! Love it eh 👍

[@RAED8282]

Impressive idea , the location ,how it looks , space inside the fridge all of the idea was genius one. 👍👍👍

[@johnbeckman8916]

WOW! 1. When you first built the rig I hated the unconventional "pedestal" style dinette but man, it is perfect for everything else your rig needs and does. 2. That fridge is brilliant and top quality. Who else puts the compressor on top to dissipate heat away from the fridge? It is where it should be! 3. At certain camera angles Cara's arm reveals its' bionic features. I always knew she was way too perfect to be a 100% pure carbon based life form. 😃

[@Everlanders]

Many thanks John! Can always count on you for top quality comments! 🏆

[@Nic7320]

When you added the second backer board, I wonder how many viewers said "Don't box it in too tight! Some day, you might have to pull it out."

[@Everlanders]

I don't quite understand what you're implying, I've pulled the fridge out a few times without issue.

[@theheepjeep]

Nice install, that'll definitely help for those longer trips off the grid.

[@Everlanders]

284 days and counting!

[@DonegalOverlanding]

Just found your channel last night. We are building a camper build based around a Discovery 1 on a Defender 130 chassis. We have the 130l version of thise fridge. The build is in process right now so we have never even turned the fridge on, but we did not like the latch to open it either. Its too narrow and has a slightly sharp edge to it. Just a small detail of course, but something that should be better given the price. Also we only realised the freezer only goes to about -7c or thereabouts, rather than -18c as most overland freezers. So we may have to keep a hold of our ARB 47litre fridge/freezer for ice creams and for keeping food properly frozen. Great video, thanks for sharing it.

[@n1spirit]

You did a conversion of the measurements for the cutout so I probably would have just measured it with my standard tape measure. Even if the measurements had come out the same it harkens back to the "measure twice, cut once" rule (which encourages double-checking all measurements requiring a cut). Your fix worked fine but - could have been avoided if you'd measured rather than depend on something in a manual or handout. Looks great, btw. Thanks for sharing this buddy. Safe travels!

[@jjohnson1214]

You are a very well though out person...I'm enjoying your content..

[@yamahong56]

😝Every single one of your build is so impressive. So admire!

[@seanallison8850]

Thank you for the video. Starting my van build here in a couple weeks, so this really helped . Keep up the good work brother 👍👌

[@NewAgeDIY]

Nice to see Mr. Robot hand showing up! Great video, will done. 😀

[@lenward474]

Great demo of install! Meticulously done as always! Cool to seen a low tech solution using saw blade on your Leatherman! Everyday carry works!!

[@Jhwright07]

Excellent video. Keep up the great work!

[@jimcanfield5494]

Awesome job! I like those illumined fuse blocks. Wish blue sea would make something like that.

[@drew8642]

It appears you are a master craftsman. Nice rig.

[@koryyyy]

Like all roads take you to Rome, all search's takes me to your channels hahaha But you are way younger on this one :D

[@gregparrott]

Your videos are exceptionally concise. Thanks for posting them!

[@Everlanders]

Glad you like them!

[@gregparrott]

@@Everlanders I recently found your channel. I'll have to look for a video describing the utility room (13:15). - Both the electrical grid and the stainless cylinders in back

[@patrickfoster8328]

*ISOTHERM QUESTIONS! PLZ ANSWER! I want to add a 2 story box on a cab chassis. Can you just use wood, or can you use metal to make it custom dimensions. Can you drive 75-85mph safely with a wooden trailer housing 12 people and kids?* I am also trying to do it the cheapest way possible but sturdy. I was thinking shipping container, but i dont know if they do custom dimensions for cheap.

[@Everlanders]

A 85mph wooden Isotherm!¿

[@jesse2990]

Thank you for the video. I just ordered this very same model. It looks fantastic, it will be going into my van build.

[@Ramdodge582]

WTF, why is this the first time youtube is showing me your rig? looks pretty sweet, need to watch build vids.

[@Everlanders]

Thanks so much!

[@Camhin1]

Also that fridge seems like a nice combination of a upright and draw style.

[@Everlanders]

Yes, I think they use the same enclosure for both the Drawer and Door models.

[@sickjohnson]

Congrats on what should be a huge upgrade!

[@Everlanders]

So huge! We love it!

[@darylzampese1855]

That fake hand is just creepy,haha. Great job👍

[@Everlanders]

It gets creepier...

[@thomasarezzo558]

Weird prequel to The Ice Pirates but I can dig it.

[@russsherratt6919]

Hello you two! Been missing your KZbin videos, as much as your humor. Good job on building the correct size dinette seat, Or having isotherm engineer that frig. Will always refer to my solider connections as twisty twisty connects. Y’all have a good Halloween be sure to have your helper hand ready on Thursday. Hope to see you at XPO next year. Russ

[@Randidly1]

Nice fridge

[@brettfoster6786]

Freezer on the counter and a frig with cheez - beer & 🌎 to explore .

[@CITAP1]

Very smooth operation. Now switch the counter unit to freezer mode and you'll never run out of ice cream or ice for gin and tonic when you get to Africa.

[@Everlanders]

Yes, We have the Engle set to freeze now...

[@tstcikhthys]

+1 for efficiency. Speaking of, I'm curious why you couldn't just retrofit the truck with enough insulation (Passivhaus-style) so that you don't have to waste energy on an AC to keep the interior cool, especially since you don't have any windows. Given your expertise and skillset, I'm sure it would be possible and much more energy efficient. Also, 5:42 boo for converting to customary units. Buying a millimetre-only (e.g., Fastcap True32) tape measure seems like a much easier proposition than having to convert to and use the clunky customary units.

[@Everlanders]

Because I don't want to...

[@toadbroz30]

Bwahahah "I'm going to guess a 10 amp fuse and read the manual later" Love it

[@brisonpalmer6730]

Excellent video installation

[@georgedemean2228]

Beautifull install man, I also love the electrical wire way management in the utility bay 👍 Did you work on the space shuttle to ? 😏

[@esautrash]

Just saw you guys in Baja! Hope you guys have fun, and welcome to my state.

[@Everlanders]

Thanks for the warm welcome everyone! Happy to be here!

[@anthonymarino4260]

Nice vid. Got a nova kool same comp as yours draws only 4 amps works great

[@MikeAndTum]

Looks great! Is that a television or monitor mounted on the wall? If it is, do you have the name? I love the super clean look.

[@Everlanders]

It's a 28" AOC monitor, it' looks cleaner than it is, there is a mounting stand/bulge on the back that's buried in the wall.

[@HueNarcisWorld]

I see you connect the negative to the chassis. Are there any disadvantages in doing that ? I know in aluminum boats it is not advisable because it would cause corrosion. Does it interfere with the car battery system in any way ? Could I still ground the chassis (actual stake in the ground )? Thanks

[@Everlanders]

The disadvantage is that it will cost a lot less running a ground cable to every device and solar panel as the ground all goes through the chassis and aluminum frame. It can not affect the chassis battery... It's like filling a glass of water on the table and wondering if it will affect the other glass of water on the same table. You can stake the ground if it makes you feel better, I never have.

[@shlaz196]

Love the vid its really descriptive. i just bought a fridge and am a little confused on the wiring. was it only positive negative wire coming off the back or did you do some other instillation and wiring off screen?

[@Everlanders]

Nope, positive and negative is all you need...

[@thekevorlando]

So the Engle that's built into the counter it is also a freezer correct so if you were going out on a longer say 14 15 days you could keep frozen meat in there

[@Everlanders]

14 days? We've been traveling full time for 5 years...

[@georgesinger370]

Are those circuit breakers at 14:18 the same type that Todea Dacian at Electrodacus uses? If so, where did you buy them from, please. I bought a SBMS40 : ) Also, if you did one. Which video would be the one to watch on the wiring the Utility Room? The "Isotherm Drawer 85" is the one I have been looking at : ) Great Video. Thank you.

[@Everlanders]

h5.aliexpress.com/item/1925523531.html

[@jmsigner]

I am thinking about getting the same fridge, maybe the 130 size. It’s been a year now for you, any issues, complaints? Or are you happy with your switch?

[@Everlanders]

2 years, we didn't switch, we still have both, no problems...

[@jmsigner]

@@Everlanders thank you for your quick response. Looking forward to getting one myself

[@BarryandKaren]

Home Depot sells the Unique 24vDC fridges which are twice the capacity and use half the power, with their Danfoss/Secop compressors.

[@Everlanders]

Half the power? They use the exact same compressors! "Today, with our Isotherm refrigeration solutions, we can offer you very quiet and compact compressors thanks to the sole use of automotive validated Secop / Danfoss products." www.webasto-comfort.com/int/comfort-solutions/recreational-vehicle-comfort/fridges/

[@BarryandKaren]

@@Everlanders based on their written spec. 1100 wh over 24 hrs vs 520wh over 24 hrs.

[@Everlanders]

Neither the Isotherm fridge nor the Engel deep freeze we have use anywhere near their rated specs.

[@wvcollective]

Could you tell me what the technical name is for the containment that you use for your wiring I’ve used it on a few pieces of industrial equipment before but can’t remember the name of it for the life of me it would really help many thanks your videos are great been watching you for awhile now

[@Everlanders]

I use Panduit Cable Raceway

[@wvcollective]

@@Everlanders Thankyou Just been back over a load of your videos as I’ve been collecting parts for my build for about two years now and just brushing up on some of the wise that you have engineered stuff

[@RichardCrabbe403]

Nicey nice!! Very cool fridge upgrade! (pun intended!) Thought you would need to strap it down more securely instead of just relying on those few screws to hold the fridge in. Love the way you designed the interior furniture to be so easy to change/repair /upgrade.

[@michaeldalton7511]

You're a very talented individual. I wish I had the patience to build something with your level of detail!

[@Camhin1]

Love this channel!

[@NigelNaughton]

Cool build. Do you think the way that fridge door is designed that it's going to be a pain getting to your items? The door looks like it will get in the way and you have to reach over it.

[@Everlanders]

If it was up higher, above waist height you'd probably want the swinging door version, but ours is down low, so reaching down into it like a drawer is no problem.

[@gjohn7792]

Kudos to Colorado 4X4

[@acorndrumneptune]

very nice build and fridge! kinda surprised you didnt upgrade the fan as you certainly seem to be one for both longevity and higher performance (or lower noise) lol

[@Everlanders]

The stock fan isn't too bad. If it gets gummed up I'll replace it with a quieter one...

[@acorndrumneptune]

@@Everlanders ah fair enough!

[@helenrimmer-CarryOnRTW]

Now that you've had the fridge for some time, curious if you have any feedback? We were considering the chest fridge but like the idea of this one since it appears to take up less room then a 85L chest model.

[@Everlanders]

It's still working like a champ, no complaints... If you have the layout that would allow for a chest, I would go that route for sure... chest coolers don't lose all their cold every time you open the door, and there's more room for contents because there isn't sliding racks and drawer slides etc... I imagine that our actual food storage volume is probably closer to 70 l after you account for all the internal mechanisms. Unfortunately we just didn't have a good location to permanently mount another chest freezer.

[@helenrimmer-CarryOnRTW]

@@Everlandersthanks for the feedback and insight, that helps. The more we've seen and read about it, I think the chest would work better for us. We are still at the design stage so I think we can find a way to make it work.

[@michaelclayton1821]

I work in yachting and the boat that I work on has those for the exterior....it works great.....but opening it up isn't gonna get any easier....it seals really well....Soo if it starts to open up easy u better check that seal

[@Everlanders]

Thanks for the good info!

[@Mark-gg6iy]

I am looking for the video you did (I think) where you used a small electronic component ~2"in sq x 3?16"in thick that produces cold by its functioning that is not its intended purpose. Help? Name of the component?

[@Everlanders]

The only component which I could think of is called a "Peltier Cooler", or sometimes called "TEC Thermoelectric Cooler". I don't think I've ever shown them in a video.

[@alvarogaitan2529]

thanks good video and super good job

[@Everlanders]

Glad you liked it!

[@java230]

Very nice! Same one I am using. I find it does frost up, and needs to be defrosted reasonably often. Then the freezer drawer starts making awful noises when opening and closing its time.... Does your latch rattle? That is my one complaint with it!

[@Everlanders]

No, problems with our latch rattleing.

[@java230]

@@Everlanders interesting, I wonder if they updates it. Things do look a little bit different on yours

[@TheWoodensong]

Are you planning on keeping the older unit (in counter top) and using it as a Freezer? Just curious… ~ ~ ~ "Scooter' in East Texas

[@Everlanders]

Yes, exactly... But it has changed roles back to fridge a few times too. Good to have that versatility! 👍

[@overland505]

It would be a nice upgrade for the popup unworking fridge.

[@Everlanders]

Unworking is the worst!

[@cmh2111]

Love athe cable management. I would have pulled a ground wire, maybe that's why you're not seeing the correct amp draw.

[@Everlanders]

The amp draw is correct.

[@themcpeters]

Hey just curious if you still have the fridge and how it worked out for you! We are trying to upgrade and are looking at Isotherm fridges.

[@Everlanders]

Still works fine...

[@themcpeters]

@@Everlanders freezer work? Man would it be cool to have ice cubes again 😂

[@Everlanders]

All works fine...

[@cliffmorgan31]

What kind of board are you using on your build? The light grey board you mounted the unit in. Awesome, both your trips and the build!

[@Everlanders]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/np6ToIBjZpp2oKM

[@TheGideonp1]

Looking inside the power Box for the FANUC robot looks ever so similar to your power Junction Box for your overland rig... Do you come from a machine build or automation background? It's such a clean install it looks professional... So much so that another technician could quickly diagnose a problem without needing a manual. You guys rock

[@Everlanders]

I can't speak about my background.

[@G3mech]

@@Everlanders Funny, I was wondering the same thing... we should talk sometime. Perfect use-case for a soldered, Western Union wire splice over butt connectors -- and those flag spade connectors really are a pain without the 'special' crimp tool, aren't they?

[@flywithholyspirit]

Nice Job,

[@blakebowling4481]

Have you yet installed a DS1820 in that fridge yet? I have the "door" version and "need" it :)

[@Everlanders]

No, Ours is working fine...

[@dudeleboski2692]

Will you be adding additional air venting in the back of the unit, venting to the outside?

[@Everlanders]

This area is already vented outside with a temperature controlled fan.

[@dudeleboski2692]

@@Everlanders Interesting. Could you please make a Vlog with more detailed information? ( how to vent these fridges correctly )

[@Everlanders]

No, sorry.

[@robertsfamilytour917]

Great video. I’ve just discovered your channel so I’m catching up. You automate your truck in the same way I do my home pretty much, well done on a great explanation of everything I’ve seen so far. I have two short questions: how is the freezer part holding up? Does it actually freeze low enough? I’m looking at using this in my new build. Lastly what brand of DC breaker do you use for your solar inputs? I can’t find much here in the UK so open to recommendations. Ok so three questions. Cheers, Dave.

[@Everlanders]

m.aliexpress.com/wholesale/dc-circuit-breaker.html

[@Everlanders]

The isotherm freezer is working great, no problems, however our primary freezer is on the other side in the counter as I'm sure you found by now, this one is used for small things like ice cubes and such.

[@robertsfamilytour917]

@@Everlanders thanks for link and the answers. I think we will also need to use a chest type for the "food" freezer.

[@davidking2490]

I'm about to purchase this fridge and can't find this info anywhere: can you fit a gallon of milk in it?

[@Everlanders]

No

[@nandos1111]

You think of everything. Except to have a dual metric and imperial tape measure

[@pomperfred]

Which wire gauge did you used?

[@Everlanders]

I use 10 gauge because I had it available and it was only 1 meter to the batteries. The wire gauge required will depend on the distance the wire needs to run, this is all provided in the manual.

[@gameofthrottle3750]

Im saving up for one, just a freezer plate tho. U gotta bread machine too?

[@Everlanders]

We don't eat bread, or carbs.

[@anthonyhitchings1051]

That (computer style) cooling fan seems to be uselessly close the the wall of the enclosure - a basic design error.

[@Everlanders]

Nope, it's vented right out the side wall right there...

[@overlandshower4312]

Does anyone know if the freezer section can be removed for more fridge space? Also, the blue led interior lights are horrendous, at night they are blinding and can’t tell what anything is, anyone been able to change the lights?

[@Everlanders]

I'd bet Isotherm knows...

[@Chris-ut6eq]

Did you say 1" square tubing? in the pics, errr video, it almost looks like 1/2 tubing. Guess I should look for a cabinet making video ;-p

[@Everlanders]

1 inch square tubing!

[@Colorado4x4Van]

So that's where that trim-board went...lol...

[@Everlanders]

I hope you're kidding, but I fear your not... 😪

[@Colorado4x4Van]

Jk....lol....my shop is your shop!

[@dennisgermain189]

not worried about centering everything , I mite have elected to offset the unit to one side to increase the storage area on one side, maybe even using your aluminum frame for mounting on one side and raising thee unit mite increase the storage area in the lower front, keeping in mind any requirements for airflow around the unit , but sometimes aesthetics out weigh optimization

[@Everlanders]

To each, his own...

[@dennisgermain189]

@@Everlanders wow, just blew me off, cool dude

[@Everlanders]

Not blowing you off... Just nothing to add, you would have offset it, I wanted it centered with room for other equipment beside it. We agree to disagree.

[@dennisgermain189]

@@Everlanders I don't disagree with your explanation

[@davidc1961utube]

Too bad the gremlins ate your soldering video, because we all know by now how fond you are of soldering, and from the solar controller video how freakishly good you are at it! I was wondering if you will now set the Engel up as a freezer, given the larger volume of fridge space you have now. Also, lots of room in your “water closet”! Be well, and another cool video. (See what I did there?)

[@Everlanders]

Correct! The Engel is our full time freezer now... Doggo is raw fed so that takes up a bunch of space!

[@yobrevol1788]

Can we talk about the robo hand???

[@Everlanders]

Yes

[@keithjohnson7048]

The hand!😂😂

[@JonSnow-bc6ro]

Beauty Eh.

[@VanessaWilliamsnativedoll]

What’s with the robot hand?

[@Everlanders]

I didn't see it...

[@jwtrull6431]

What is the cable box system with the DIN rails called?

[@Everlanders]

Googling: wire track, cable track, cable trunk yeilds lots of results!

[@jwtrull6431]

@@Everlanders I'll need to make friends with an electrical engineer. Your set up is great!

[@erikvaliquette9773]

Poor you having beer at arms length when sitting at the table

[@jimjones7821]

i came here to watch the soldering ....and...the clip was MISSING !

[@joyceyoungblood7927]

Can you turn your other one into a freezer ?

[@Everlanders]

Exactly right... The chest style Engel can be either fridge or freezer, but not both... Currently we use it as a deep freeze.

[@candykanefpv]

I’m surprised nobody’s said anything about th robotic prosthetic arm.

[@Everlanders]

Me too!

[@williamlivingstone4326]

#TeamTrees ? I think so!

[@jedics1]

I don't get the design of your fridge, it doesn't have a swinging door for ease of access but a pull out door where the front actually hinders it and it doesn't prevent the cold air from falling out of it like a chest would....With the amount of lithium you have you could run a normal and affordable fridge for a month without solar.

[@Everlanders]

I agree, I wish there was a nice, large, chest fridge that fit under that seat nicely, but they just don't exist or don't fit through our door...

[@murraymadness4674]

​@@Everlanders I built a custom fridge..and put the compressor UNDER the bus, you don't need the heat inside during the summer when cooling is important. Just like a minisplit a/c does. In fact, spilling cold into the bus is OK, not a bad thing in the summer heat. Could build you a custom one however you need it.

[@Everlanders]

Exactly, that would have been perfect. But as we are heading south through Guatemala now, it might be a little too late to make these changes. I investigated having refrigeration shops relocate my compressors outside, but I couldn't get anyone to do it. there are refrigeration shops down here too of course, and they seem more willing to help get whatever you need done, done.

[@chipper7711]

If the handle is the plastic version (not metal), I’m sorry to report it will crack and fail completely, eventually. I am on my third handle. Isotherm refuses to upgrade the quality of plastic they use. Instead, they advise being ever more gentle with it, even going so far as to advise I open my fridge delicately, with two hands. Huge bummer when it breaks in Baja, and they refuse to ship a replacement internationally. I will eventually 3D-Print a better quality unit with my own $.

[@Everlanders]

Ours is all metal!

[@LFOD7491]

One of the best values of having a drawer (horizontal) refrigerator as opposed to a vertical door refrigerator is that the later DOES allow the cold air to fall on the floor as soon as you open it. That advantage is lost when the drawer is merely a basket. Clearly, the maker WANTS the fridge to work harder so it will break down sooner. It's called the moral deprivation of planned obsolescence.

[@williamperez1083]

Hola no tienen página de Facebook ?

[@Everlanders]

No señor, demasiadas cuentas sociales para mantener. Instagram y KZbin principalmente. ¿Nos viste rodar a Baja? ¿En la boda?

[@williamperez1083]

Los vi en el cruce fronterizo

[@laurieberg2880]

Like!

[@Everlanders]

And Subscribe!

[@Dmhlcmb]

Rather than thusly, do you ever as so?

[@Everlanders]

I should...

[@paolopetrozzi2213]

5'40'' Still doing math? Why don't you just buy a meter tape? Easier and faster work and no risk of errors. The USA is the only Country in the world (Except for Burma and another one) still using miles, yard, feet, inches, fingernails... rather than the meter. Just the meter, with no need of any conversion feet-inches and so on. NASA switched to the SI, but the people not yet. By the way, I like your videos! So easy and nice to watch. Thank you!

[@Everlanders]

Because I was in America, borrowing a measure tape from an American, buying a second tape measure cost money, math is free. Thanks for all your kind comments.

[@paolopetrozzi2213]

@@Everlanders Ah... ok then, sorry. :) Have a nice day, both of you, wherever you are!

[@markshielsdotcom]

I really like the design of the overcab, but why no windows ?

[@Everlanders]

Because I don't want them.