help ! isotherm fridge repair

[arch007]

I have an isotherm 2554 water cooled fridge.

it has a leak. my options are

1. replace with new isotherm which I have. but boat is in water so cannot replace water thru hull cooler so if leak is there will STILL leak

2. just replace evaporator as old one is corroded. worried as I refill refrigerant will block etc new evaporator

what shall I do ?

also shall I use any sealant on the joints ?

[Deep Blue Water]

Regarding #1, does the through-hull have a sea cock? You should be able to close the sea cock and change the hose or pipe.

Nonetheless I think you need to identify if you have a leak in that area, if the through-hull is leaking then that's the most critical issue.

[model 10]

The Isotherm condenser is a pretty good unit. It's made from Monel I think (?), just replace the evaporator.
Evacuate the system before you re-charge it and you should be good to go.

[pilott]

I had a similar issue. I purchased a leak detector (Amazon +/- $40) and traced the leak to the tubing from the compressor to the evaporator. The tube had "chafed" where it passed through a bulkhead
It wasn't a major project to replace the evaporator.
I used a vacuum pump from Harbor Freight (about $100) to make sure the system was dry before filling.

[Uncle Bob]

Originally Posted by arch007

I have an isotherm 2554 water cooled fridge.

it has a leak. my options are

1. replace with new isotherm which I have. but boat is in water so cannot replace water thru hull cooler so if leak is there will STILL leak

2. just replace evaporator as old one is corroded. worried as I refill refrigerant will block etc new evaporator

what shall I do ?

also shall I use any sealant on the joints ?

Hi, if you have not yet been successful resolving this one I would suggest an email to Pete at OZEFRIDGE, he used to be a member here that was happy to assist anyone with fridge problems. He is I believe semi retired now but still involved in the manufacturing of his range of fridges, I am sure he will be able to help.
Cheers

Would help if I added his email. ozefridge@ozemail.com.au