Conversion 115v AC to 240v USA/Europe

[biggles39]

Given the large numbers of Westfalias imported from the USA which would have been set up to use 115vAC and would then require
conversion to 240vAC I was surprised not to find any reference to the situation on a search or in any of the Forums.
I appreciate that a transformer would do the job, but which one. Or is it simply that the fridge has a changeover switch somewhere at the back.
The reason I ask is because I have just purchased a Canadian registered 84 T25 with the North American set up. If the answer is only to use gas or 12v for the fridge so be it. If any Westy boffins have a solution i would very much appreciate their input.
Thanks

[R0B]

I thought most were imported from Germany.Not sure that many are imported from the States.I think that's why you can't find a lot of info.

[jacobh]

Instead of a transformer you could exchange the 110 v heating element in the fridge for a 220v version .

For the other connections for e.g the wall hookup you could use an USA extension cord with
a euro connector on the other side. That is how I did it. Inside the van I use an 3 way extension
cord with an USA plug.

Please note that the plugs etc are intended for 110 volt use. I checked the connection and considered
it to safe to use them for 220v. I don't know how your regulations are in the UK. as I'm dutch.

My USA Vanagon only the Fridge was a 110v application no other 110v power appliances.

Jacob

[marlinowner]

If it has built in battery charger that would be 110v as well, in which case I would think a site transformer would be the easiest solution, eg
https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/aw/d/B005OU ... ref=plSrch" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

But then if you wanted to run 240v only appliances from internal sockets you would need a step up tranformer, although most electronics work on either 110 or 240.

[biggles39]

Thanks to Jacobh and Marlinowner and ROB.
Obviously there are a number of options.
The Westy was previously used by a Canadian gentleman to tour Europe. After going back to CAN he never returned,
the T25 was in storage for 15 years in Spain. It is still on CAN plates and is yet to be registered in Spain. What Fun !!!
As he is now in his 80s I don't think there is much chance of picking his probably pickled brain.
I like Jacobh's idea of changing the Fridge heating element to 240v, does anyone know a source for one,
perhaps I should start looking for a second hand fridge. The rest of the rewiring to 240 should be
straightforward. The fridge will have to be taken out and turned upside down anyway after 15 years standing.
The Westy is absolutely rust free so well worth sorting out a few problems.

[jacobh]

Campervanculture has 2 : http://campervanculture.com/shop/vw-t25 ... rigerator/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

And Gunzl in Germany sells them to for 49.50

Partnumber is 255070508D

I didn't rewire the van. I checked wire gauges or mm2 and the are more than adequate to handle the current (less current at 220) and the isolation.

So I use the van on 220/240v using the original USA sockets. The only 110v appliance in my van was the fridge.

Jacob

[nicq]

I would be carefully as the insulation on US wireing is usually poor. You are pushing it if you use it at 240 volt especially with condensation in a metal van.