Replacement fridge for '80s PT

[mrkane1952]

Greetings All:

The original Dometic RM3801 refrigerator in my coach is failing. I full-time in
my coach, and do not boondock for extended periods. (I have medications which
need refrigeration.)

The overall condition and age of the RM3801 makes replacement of the cooling
unit impractical, IMO. No currently available absorption unit is the same size,
so some reworking of the cabinet will be necessary whichever the type of
replacement. Therefore, due to cost considerations, I have been considering a
household refrigerator replacement. (These are around 1/3 the cost of an
absorption unit, and 1/5--1/8 (!!) the cost of a Danfoss compressor unit.)

In my coach the black-tank vent is near the outside edge of the compartment
behind the fridge, which limits the depth of possible replacements. Similarly,
the width is bounded by the dinette area bench and overhead bins, and the
bathroom. The floor of the compartment above the current unit can be raised
several inches.

I've found three units which are similar in size, but generally a bit taller
than the original. They are Whirlpool ET0MSRXTD (9.7 cu ft,) Frigidaire
FFPT10F0KW (9.9 cu ft,) and a GE GTR10HAXRWW (9.9 cu ft.) Anyone have experience
with these or other recommendations?

The rear of the fridge will be exposed to outside ambient temperatures. What is
needed in near-freezing, or lower, temperatures? High ambient? Some units have
the coils on the back of the box, others under the cabinet. It would seem easier
to install the latter, but are there other concerns?

Any hints about removal and installation?

Thanks--

M.R.Kane
'87 PT40
currently Iron River, MI