Thermoelectric 12v coolers

I'm not 100% certain but I think all of the thermo-electric coolers will pull [about] the same draw, regardless. Sounds like your truck has only 3 batteries but if they're all "good" you should be able to start after 12 hour break unless it's real cold outside.

Hurry up and do your time and move on to a better carrier with better spec'd trucks, APU's and fridges and/or sensible idle (comfort) policies.

 

Hi there t_v- STexan is right on-28-32-40 qt-dont matter-they will draw down your batteries.Since you cant sneak in a inverter/charger-i was going to suggest a ice cooler,but your on that.
Any way you can idle for an hour here n there?

 

My cooler stays plugged in at all time unless Im leaving the truck for more then 12 hours then I take it home with me. Last night ran my cooler, 12v, fan and cpap machine for 11 hours and truck started just fine.

 

That voltage drop was probably not all attributable to the cooler. Parasitic draw and a potentially flawed pre or post voltage reading, or a simple anomaly might be playing a part in the supposed 2 volt drop.

Next time you're in a situation where you can easily jump off if needed, leave the cooler running for 12 hours or more then take note of the start and how strong it does or does not start. If you pull reefer, chances are there are battery posts on the frame somewhere between the cab and the trailer [to assist jumping dead reefers]. This option could be utilized to work the other way if you needed to jump start your truck.

But do not leave anything else running that you do not need when sleeping or away, like phone chargers, GPS, or inverters. Most inverters, big or small, will draw voltage even if nothing is plugged into them.

Many years ago, I ran a similar thermo-electric cooler in "cheap truck" where they only ran 3 cheap batteries, and don't recall having any starting issues after leaving it running for 14+ hours.

 

It might not be the motor. Replace the plug with one of the universal replacements for about $5. The original has a super fine wire spring to hold the fuse in contact and they tend to easily melt. Also, if you get it working, place it where you can aim an AC vent at the motor. It will get cold enough that it won't run constantly to keep cold and will help preserve your battery charge.

Frank

 

Save yourself the headache of those junk coolers you buy in the truckstops that constantly run.
pick up one of these and you won't regret it. I've had mine for over 8 years and still works great!
Dometic Portable Freezer/Refrigerator Box CF-018DC