keeping food in the truck

I use 12v Coleman. It has enough storage room for me. I usually go for two week.

I precook most of the food, then pack it in separate containers ( meal per 1), while it's still hot. It vacuums it out some what, then I refrigerate it. Didn't have a problem yet, food stays good through the whole trip. Lunch meat, salads from deli all going in there.

If you want cooler to last longer, make sure there is not a lot condensate and radiator doesn't freeze over.

 

The Coleman Cooler works well, however, it has a life expectancy of 6 months of continuous use. So far, my experience with them has shown to buy it at Walmart for $88, buy the Extended Warranty for $5, and after the thing goes at six months, "return it for a new one" as the warranty states.

 

Nor cold makes nice portable refrigerator/freezers, not cheap but I trust mine more than thermo electric coolers.

 

I have found the 12volt coolers to be pretty effective. But, they will freeze up, especially if they are over full and can't get good circulation. I just got a simple cooling rack, (from the baking isle at Walmart) and with a little bending it fit in the bottom of the cooler. Now the air circulates. Same principle as the grooved floor of the reefer trailer. Plus if any condensation does occur your food stays dry.

 

Anybody making enough money to be running one of these? If so, how do you like it?

http://www.roadtrucker.com/engel/compact-14-quart-engel-12-volt-dc-fridge-freezer.htm

I don't like the dorm style AC units and prefer a top-load style that sits up front next to passenger seat. Having better temp control and lower power consumption as this one does would be nice to have over the thermo-electric models. Maybe one day somebody will get me one for Christmas?

 

I actually have one a norcold similar unit. We have used it for 6.5 years with no issues other than replacing the cord, because we broke it.

http://www.thetford.com/HOME/Products/NorcoldRefrigeratorsHome/MRFT415/tabid/199/Default.aspx

I paid approx $750 6.5 years ago. We have saved thousands of dollars with it. We used it as a freezer for the first year or so in the truck. I don't like thermo electric units at all. The two we had never kept food cold enough especially if you got in the southwest when it was 110 degrees.

 

Big thing with the coolers is circulation as stated earlier. Also take canned air and blow the fans off. I do this every time I come in from the road. About every three weeks. I got my igloo cooler used and I've used it non stop for the past two years. Only replaced the cord once. I'm not sure how long the guy who gave it to me had it. I know it sat unused for a couple of years in his garage.

If the fan goes out just remove it and take it to radio shak or best buy. Tell them you need one just like it. Itll cost about $5-$15. Hell get one with led lights and be fancy lol