Post by teachndad on Feb 11, 2022 5:04:31 GMT
Hello,
I am looking for some guidance for an appropriate condenser fan motor for a mid 50’s Marvel mini fridge model MR - 14. I want to install it in a vintage travel trailer I am restoring.
The trailer was missing the fridge when I bought it. I found a Marvel that fits in the opening of the cabinet. I bought this used and it was cooling at the time I bought it. The wiring was falling apart but it was keeping things cool.
It was really no longer safe to use with frayed wiring, so I figured out the maze of wiring for it and then started it up. It cools within minutes, but the condenser fan would not start. I plugged it directly into an outlet and it failed to turn. So, I searched for a replacement condenser fan motor.
The original motor was a 15 watt Morrill CWSE motor. It turns out it’s really hard to find a motor that is that wattage and still small enough to fit in the compressor cabinet. Most motors at that wattage (now 16 watts) are just too long.
Long story short, I bought a motor that I didn’t know was too long. I would eventually be refunded for my purchase. When I tested out this motor with the original 3 blade fan attached to it, the wind noise was so loud, I don’t see how I or anyone could ever fall asleep in my trailer if the condenser fan is so loud. I don’t get it. People I have talked with who have been around these fridges say they are generally quiet.
So, here is my question. Does anyone know what wattage motor will work in this fridge that won’t be so loud. Do I need a motor this powerful or can I use something with less power? Rotation speed is 1550. Do I need to find a fan blade set that is 4 or 5 blades? Maybe the added blades might make the fan quieter? I really think the noise comes from the fan blade whir and not the motor itself.
Thoughts? The clearance for the condenser fan is really tight between the compressor and the condenser. Condenser is in front. Below are some photos of the fridge. The only air source for circulation appears to be the small louvered grate at the very bottom front of the fridge. This hinges down if necessary and there is a large “faceplate” above that can be easily removed to get access underneath.
Personally, I feel the motor is way to strong for the space, but what do I know about these things? This is why I am here.
Thanks,
Rod
Opening for condenser and compressor compartment
Compressor below
Here is the fan motor and blades behind the condenser. That wire across the top makes things difficult when removing or installing the motor.
Back of the original condenser fan
Original Fan blades from condenser fan.
This might be helpful below. It's a video of the start up. Click on the image and it links to the video. This was before I realized the condenser fan was supposed to be running.
I am looking for some guidance for an appropriate condenser fan motor for a mid 50’s Marvel mini fridge model MR - 14. I want to install it in a vintage travel trailer I am restoring.
The trailer was missing the fridge when I bought it. I found a Marvel that fits in the opening of the cabinet. I bought this used and it was cooling at the time I bought it. The wiring was falling apart but it was keeping things cool.
It was really no longer safe to use with frayed wiring, so I figured out the maze of wiring for it and then started it up. It cools within minutes, but the condenser fan would not start. I plugged it directly into an outlet and it failed to turn. So, I searched for a replacement condenser fan motor.
The original motor was a 15 watt Morrill CWSE motor. It turns out it’s really hard to find a motor that is that wattage and still small enough to fit in the compressor cabinet. Most motors at that wattage (now 16 watts) are just too long.
Long story short, I bought a motor that I didn’t know was too long. I would eventually be refunded for my purchase. When I tested out this motor with the original 3 blade fan attached to it, the wind noise was so loud, I don’t see how I or anyone could ever fall asleep in my trailer if the condenser fan is so loud. I don’t get it. People I have talked with who have been around these fridges say they are generally quiet.
So, here is my question. Does anyone know what wattage motor will work in this fridge that won’t be so loud. Do I need a motor this powerful or can I use something with less power? Rotation speed is 1550. Do I need to find a fan blade set that is 4 or 5 blades? Maybe the added blades might make the fan quieter? I really think the noise comes from the fan blade whir and not the motor itself.
Thoughts? The clearance for the condenser fan is really tight between the compressor and the condenser. Condenser is in front. Below are some photos of the fridge. The only air source for circulation appears to be the small louvered grate at the very bottom front of the fridge. This hinges down if necessary and there is a large “faceplate” above that can be easily removed to get access underneath.
Personally, I feel the motor is way to strong for the space, but what do I know about these things? This is why I am here.
Thanks,
Rod
Opening for condenser and compressor compartment
Compressor below
Here is the fan motor and blades behind the condenser. That wire across the top makes things difficult when removing or installing the motor.
Back of the original condenser fan
Original Fan blades from condenser fan.
This might be helpful below. It's a video of the start up. Click on the image and it links to the video. This was before I realized the condenser fan was supposed to be running.
