Vintage Kegerator - Crosley

[JillBrew]

Hi

I recently purchased a 1952 Crosley Refrigerator with the intentions of turning it into a kegerator. However, I have never attempted to do anything like this before and need help. I see those who have completely torn their vintage fridge apart and replace all the insulation which is what I would really like to do. It just scares me. I can't find anything that is close to a step by step how to which would make me more comfortable. I am wondering if anyone knows of any more detailed instructions in undertaking the vintage to kegerator process or... anyone who would like to virtually guide me through the process.

 

[MrFoodScientist]

I'd say your best bet is to dig through those old threads and look for similarities to your fridge. Ultimately you'll want to make a decision as to whether you want to risk tearing into it or just drill holes in the door.
Even with those threads and having a similar fridge, I killed my cooling system and had to have it recharged. (Luckily I knew a guy with some R12)

With your freezer being the entire top and not a small portion like the GE's in those threads where the fridges are torn apart, I don't know what to expect. Look for pieces that look like they were meant to be removable and if there aren't any easy ways to remove the sealed system (cooling coils, condenser, and compressor) in one piece, I would think that replacing the insulation may not be an option for you. At that point, you're next best route is to clean it up, paint it and drill some holes in the door.

Great looking fridge though.

 

[Stealthcruiser]

I'm guessing, that it works, yes?

 

[brewbama]

Did they use asbestos back then?

 

[Stealthcruiser]

Did they use asbestos back then?

Usually "rock wool", as my Dad called it, for insulation in keeping the cold in.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mineral_wool

Asbestos was normally selected for high heat applications.

 

[calgary222]

There are lots of threads here that can help you with this including discussions regarding the efficiency of the 1950's (better) than later model (1970's) fridges - these helped me decide to just paint as opposed to totally tearing down.
My experience is here:
https://www.homebrewtalk.com/f252/kegerator-build-loud-compressor-question-513806/
where I started with one fridge and modified it to fit 3 cornys and co2 only to find out my compressor got rather loud after it warmed up; so I went with a 1952 GE and now use the original for fermentation in the garage.
Just looking at your fridge, I suggest you double check that what you want to put in there will fit, on my '52, I had to remove the inside panel of the door (eventually I will remember to plastic over it) -

good luck!