From all manner of sources, an important aspect of any top loading fridge / freezer is a double sealed top. In my case I created the profile by using three different thicknesses of foam which I will glass and vacuum bag to create a wrap around top that I will bond to the flush top of the cabinet. The next few steps will be to build the butterfly opening top with double seals, bond a Formica laminate to the top surface of the cabinet box and top, apply a two ply bamboo veneer to the outside of the box for cosmetics then finish the box with an aluminum strip of edging to give it a nice professional look.
From top to bottom, here's my plan:
- icebox top surface smoothed to accept chamfered opening ( steps 2, 3 and 4)
- nest layer of 3/4 in dyvinicell foam, 1 1/4 inch beveled layer of foam
- 1/4 inch spacer which will be covered with 6 ply cabinit grade plywood
- final surface laminate to top
- veneer exterior cabinet
- install edging
- apply internal glazing ( a simple rolled on mixture of epoxy, titanium dioxide and cabosil to prevent "running" This I have found produces a thick, rock hard glossy surface that is easy to clean and avoids all the labor of having to spray expensive automotive coatings such as deadly polyurethane imron or synthetic enamels.
- Install the guts ( a modular Fridgoboat system http://frigoboat.com/)
- Install evaporator
- Components: (The guts)
200F Evaporator - 40.25"w x 10.5"h, Flat Plate
K50-AEO with AEO control
(This unit has an electronic "smart" speed control that automaticly adjusts the compressor RPM to provide the precise amount of refrigeration necessary for the job at hand so that the unit runs at a lower rate for a longer time thereby creating higher efficiencies than if it were to rune wide open for shorter times.)
- install keel cooled condenser to prevent cabin heat buildup in the tropics
Keel Cooler thread-mounted condenser Thermostat, Coastal Digital Fahrenheit and Celsius 12v - Install spill over unit
![]() | Spillover fan/thermostat kit, mechanical |
I plan on trailing a fishing line off the transom and packing this freezer with fish for my family. Not to mention "ice for the blender that will soon render that tropical concoction that helps one hang on"