Thermo King Magnum units

This may have been discussed before, or most may already know, but for the reefer guys, stay away from the thermo king magnum. The Magnum is a screw type compressor that is designed for deep freeze applications, such as -35 degrees F. These compressors are very expensive. I just had one replaced for a grand total of $5000! The compressor was working fine, but it started leaking freon and oil around the main shaft housing, where it bolts to the engine.

Apparantly, if the unit is ever run with out of freon, it causes the compressor housing to overheat and warp. Since these things are sealed primarily with o-rings, it is impossible to repair without replacement of the compressor. the new compressor has been redesigned due to this problem, so if you were in the market for a used reefer or unit, be wary. If the compressor has been replaced before, you might be alright, but if not, run like hell! I myself had never dealt with the magnum before, just the SB's and Super II. I just thought I would share this. I wouldn't want anyone to find out the hard way like I did.

 

Yeah, I unfortunatly found out the hard way. But the new compressor has a 2 year warranty and has been redesigned, so if I can get another year or so service out of it, I think I'm gonna bite the bullet and replace with a new SB 210 unit. You're right though, these things work great when they're working right.