Engel Fridges - MT-45 vs MR040

[spikemd]

So I am looking at purchasing a freezer/fridge in the next month. I have read a bunch of posts here ARB vs Engel vs Waeco vs Edgestar/ATC. The ATC is now $500 so I will probably pay the $150 premium. And I like the idea of established, trail-tested brands, lower draw and supporting ExPo sponsors, so I may just suck it up. Its just tough on a tight budget... I will be needing a 40+Q capacity for my wife and 2 small kids.

I have a question about the Engel fridges, namely the MT45F and MRU40F:

Based on the specs, they have the same internal dimensions and compressor. The MR040 looks to be geared for marine applications minimizing rust with the judicious use of plastic. The MT45 has the chance to expand with the two drawer system, but I think i like the look of the MR040. Any thoughts?

Which one do most people have/prefer? MT45 or MR040?

Is there a sponsor that sells the Waeco?

(We will be doing a 2-week trip across Arizona and visiting family in New Mexico via a few trails and excursions.)

Thanks.

 

[cruisertoy]

I've only had my MT45 for a month or so, but man it's nice. I would bet no matter what you buy your going to be like a puppy with two tails.(excited). I picked mine because of a one time deal I got on it. I could have bought the MR040 at the same time but wasn't thrilled with the plastic, specifically the latch. The latch looked weak to me. I haven't heard of anyone having problems with it, but maybe someone can post in about it. I will tell you that I checked out the new ARB fridge last night at our Wasatch Cruisers 10th anniversary party. Kurt from Cruiser Outfitters had one there. It also has a lot of plastic on it but I wouldn't be at all worried about the latch on it. It was much more beefy and looked like a well built unit. I believe it even has the temp senser and readout built in. I went to Harbor Freight and bought a readout for my MT45 so I could tell what temp it is. Give Kurt a call and pick his brain a little.

 

[roscoFJ73]

Which one do most people have/prefer?


Thanks.

There is not a lot of difference among the the top brands. The ARB,Waeco and both the Engels use much the same amount of power to do the same job.
The Waeco 50 and the ARB 47 are both using the Danfoss BD35 compressor.

I,personally have a liking to plastic cases.
I think the ARBs drain plug is a good idea also.
The Waeco ,ARB and the plastic Engel will run off mains power.

 

[shake'n'bake]

I have had my MR040 for almost 6 months and love it. Haven't had any problems with the latches. I went with the 40 because I preferred the look and durability of the plastic, and I don't need the extra room. Plus it has the ability to reverse which way you open the lid.
I purchased mine through expedition exchange.

 

[CarlsbadRover]

I was dissuaded from the MR040 when a vendor on this forum mentioned problems with the hinges and latch breaking. Right around when I was making this purchase the new ARB came out, which I ended up buying over the MT-45 due to what I felt was a more efficient layout (more usable space with practically the same exterior dimensions)

The MR040 also does not have a transit bag (additional insulation) and accessories for the other Engel fridges do not fit it (slide lock, roller slide), it may fit on the new ARB roller slide. If these don't matter to you then no biggie.

Good luck - no matter which one you choose you'll love trips without the need for ice :wings: