Sierra Frequently Asked Questions

The Deluxe trailer jack has a 10 inch travel distance, a 6 inch diameter wheel, and one grease port. It’s smaller than the Deluxe Plus and is better suited for smaller craft, although both models have a 1,500 lbs. load capacity. The Deluxe Plus trailer jack has a 12 inch travel distance, an 8 inch diameter wheel and two grease ports. The Plus model also features a wheel caster that swivels independent from the inner post and an extended sleeved pull pin. Our comfort grip handle on the crank comes with the Deluxe Plus model, while a durable plastic handle comes standard on the Deluxe model.

Both models feature a Zinc plated undercoat with a tough black textured overcoat that helps resist corrosion.

Our trailer jacks are designed to fit tongues up to 3” x 5”.

Yes! Both models ship with the mounting hardware and multi-lingual install instructions. When in doubt, contact your local Sierra dealer for questions.

Our trailer jacks are made to handle up to 1,500 pounds.

When the freezer compartment is installed, it can reach temperatures ranging from 5°F to 23°F. The freezer compartment is intended for previously frozen food, storing ice cream, and making ice cubes. It is not suitable to freeze previously unfrozen food.

Optimum performance is guaranteed at ambient temperatures between 60°F and 110°F and a maximum humidity of 90%.

Yes. The freezer compartment on all models can be removed to increase the capacity of the refrigerator. With the freezer compartment removed on the NRX(C/S) models, the entire interior can be used as a freezer or refrigerator.

The NRX(C/S) can be fully converted to a freezer. With the freezer compartment removed and the unit placed in FREEZER mode, the compartment cut off is -23/21°F

ECO Mode reduces energy consumption and operates within cooling levels 1-3. QUIET Mode lowers the compressor and fan RPM to minimize any noise output and operates within cooling levels 1-4. PERFORMANCE Mode is used to chill the interior rapidly and operates within cooling levels 1-5. FREEZER Mode can be selected when the freezer compartment is removed and cools the entire unit down to 21°F.

The noise range across all modes is 40-45dB(A). In QUIET mode, the unit will be operating at or near the bottom of this range. In any mode, the NRX is quieter than most premium dishwashers.

There are two sets of threaded holes located on the outside of the refrigerator unit, a set towards the front of the refrigerator and a set towards the rear. To install the frame in a flush-door position, install the frame using the rear threaded holes. To install the frame in a door-forward position, install the frame using the forward threaded holes. Please refer to the Installation Manual for more information and an installation diagram.

The frame flange face is 15/16” wide. Frames are sold separately from NRX refrigerators.

The NRX line offers six different size options, ranging from the newly introduced 35L up to 130L, and three model families (NRX-E, NRX-C and NRX-S). Each size and model family offers three convenient mode presets – Eco, Boost/Performance, and Quiet – giving boaters the ability to tailor their refrigerator to meet their needs. NRX-C and NRX-S feature a true 3-in-1 mode, turning the entire unit into a refrigerator, freezer, or combination. Feature-packed as the NRX models are, Dometic has successfully improved performance while reducing power consumption with each NRX using up to 25% less power than comparable models.

• NRX-E models feature a black front panel and does not include freezer functionality.
• NRX-C models feature a dark silver and gray front panel. The C models come with refrigerator and full freezer.
• NRX-S models feature a premium stainless-steel front panel with a refrigerator and full freezer.

We recommend using a 100W or larger solar panel and a minimum 40Ah battery like the Dometic PLB40.  You need a battery with the panel to store the energy coming from the solar panel and then adjust it to the correct voltage for the CFX3.

To determine how long the battery will power a CFX3 for, review the CFX3’s average energy consumption per hour (Ah/h).  This is the amount of energy the cooler will use in 1hr for the given internal and ambient temperature.  Divide your battery’s usable capacity (Ah) by the CFX3’s average energy consumption (Ah/h) to get the number of hours of run time.  

To determine the solar panel’s power input back into the battery, review the solar panel manufacturer’s Amp Output specification to calculate how much input back into the battery you will generate for a given length of time.  This is usually between 4-8A max per hour depending on the panel.  Plan on roughly 6 hours of sun per day to do your calculation.

Yes. In our lab testing we found that the items in the cooler (12oz soda cans) warmed up at roughly 1 degree F per hour.  For this test the cooler internal temperature was 38F and the ambient temperature was 70F.  There were 24 cans in a CFX3 55.

In most conditions  (ambient temperature of up to 90F, internal set to 37 - 41F), you will have ice cubes in roughly 2.5 hrs after switching the ice maker on.                                                                                               
The controller is programmed to run the rapid freeze plate in “freeze” mode for enough time to create the ice. During this time, more refrigerant will flow to it and the compressor runs 100% so it freezes as fast as possible.  After “freeze” mode it will switch to “maintain” mode, meaning less refrigerant will flow to the ice maker, and the compressor starts cycling to save energy. 

TIP 1: If you want another batch of ice as soon as possible after harvesting the first batch, switch the ice maker off and back on. This “tricks” the controller into starting from the beginning of the “freeze” mode. 

TIP 2: Switch off the ice maker when not in use to save energy.

Yes.  We have designed the PLB40 to be able to charge and power a CFX at the same time.

The CFX factory setting is with the WiFi signal "off". To switch to "on", at the CFX cooler, press "SET" 5 times (single compartment models), or 6 times (two compartment models), followed by "+" once.

Yes. The CFX3 lids are very rugged. They are made from durable polypropylene plastic and injected with foam insulation. It’s perfectly reasonable to sit or stand on the lid of the cooler. 

The graph shows two things- historical internal temperature (F) and energy consumption (Ah/h).  Temperature scale is on the left, in white.  Energy consumption scale is on the right, in orange.  Note- the energy consumption is only displayed when using DC power.

Please consult dometic.com for CFX energy consumption, then divide the PLB40 battery capacity (40Ah) by the CFX energy consumption (Ah) to get number of hours of run time.  Use good powered cooler practice to conserve energy.

Tips

• Keep the cooler fully packed
• Keep lid closed as much as possible
• Provide proper space around ventilation holes

The factory default name is "CFX_xxxxxxxx".

Yes. Take the handles off by simply removing the screws with a 5mm Allen  Key

Fuse ratings can vary between models. The correct fuse size is indicated on the 12V Plug label.

Please connect to your CFX3 with your app to learn more about the warning. You can also navigate to the product page and find a warning codes table in the operating manual.

CFX3 can be used anywhere in the world and can be powered with 12-24VDC, or 100-240V AC @  50/60Hz.

One of the best things about upgrading to a powered cooler or fridge freezer is how much more interior storage space you have to work with vs an ice chest.  In a normal ice chest, you need to fill it with roughly 50% ice vs “stuff” in order to keep it cold.  This means you can buy a CFX that is half (1/2) the size of your current ice chest or buy the same size and hold twice (2X) as much.

No, the CFX3 models cannot actively keep things warm, but if switched off they will keep food from freezing for some time due to the insulation.

We recommend 5F for freezing and 39F for refrigeration for optimized performance vs energy consumption. Note - even small increases/decreases in internal temperature settings can affect energy consumption.

Check out dometic.com for all your replacement part needs.

Your CFX3 has a 3-stage battery protection system that actively monitors inbound DC voltage and will turn off the cooler if it senses low voltage. This feature is designed primarily to prevent the cooler from draining your vehicle’s starter battery and leaving you stranded while out on the road. It also prevents damage to accessory batteries. The battery protection system has three levels: we recommend High or Medium for applications where the CFX is running from your starter battery, and Low when its running from an accessory or dual battery.If your battery protection is set to a recommended setting and the CFX still won’t turn on, try setting the system to one level lower – eg from High to Med. Do not use splitters, pigtails or extensions.  Each of these can create more line loss (DC voltage decreases along the length of a cable) which will cause lower voltage at the socket.  

NOTE: 

1. When electricity (current) flows from a battery, the voltage of the battery reduces. This is known as Peukert’s Law, and commonly referred to as the voltage when battery is “under load”. This is important to understand when troubleshooting voltage issues because the CFX3 is not using the “no load” battery voltage for the 3-stage battery protection system, but rather the voltage when the compressor is running, and battery is under load.  This means that your vehicle battery may read a full 12.8V at the terminals, but when the CFX3 compressor turns on, your voltage readings will drop, and then return to the original voltage when the compressor shuts off.
2. The voltage drop from the battery to the CFX3 is also an important consideration. Voltage is measured at the internal electronics, then calculated to equate to the voltage at the DC Plug at the end of the DC lead. This value is displayed on the CFX3 display, and in the CFX3 app. 

The energy consumption specification is the average amount of ampere hours (Ah) that the unit will use on 12V for a given ambient and set internal temperature. To figure out how long the CFX3 will operate on a 12V battery, simply divide the battery’s usable Ah capacity (See Battery Capacity Chemistry Note)  by the CFX3’s average energy consumption (Ah/h) to get approximate number of hours it will run. Battery Chemistry Note: lead-acid batteries have a 50% usable capacity of the stated Ah capacity, lithium NMC’s are roughly 80% and lithium iron phosphates lime the Dometic PLB40 are nearly 100%.The Rated Input Current is the maximum current input that the unit is rated.  Think of this as the maximum current that the unit would ever draw. This spec is applicable for wiring if you are doing a DIY electrical setup.  We recommend using 12 AWG wiring in any DIY setup.Also, check out our upcoming tech page for more power consumption specs at different ambient and internal temperatures to get a feel for how much power your CFX3 will need at different temperatures.

Yes! This is why we don’t call it just an ice maker. To remove the ice maker just lift out the entire component. Experiment with bringing new foods or drinks along or use it to quick-chill warm beer. If something gets stuck on the surface shut the ice maker off and let it thaw.  If you need to clean it off, use warm, soapy water. Let us know what you use it for!

The factory default password is 8 zeros: 00000000

Simply open the lid in a continuous motion through the end point of the hinge.  The lid will pop right off.  Remove the hinge socket dress discs on the other side, use a 4mm Allen Key tool to remove the hinge pins and swap to the other side, then re-fit the dress discs to the original hinge side.  If you have a CFX3 protective cover installed, you do not need to remove it.

VIPs – Vacuum Insulated Panels – the latest electric cooler insulation technology, 
that keeps your cooler cold, light, and efficient. 
 
Just like the insulation in your water bottle – by eliminating gas molecules, VIPs drastically reduce heat transfer. The result? Your CFX5 stays cold with less energy, while remaining compact and lightweight. More efficiency, more cooling, less bulk. 

Benefits of VIP: 

• Effective Thermal Insulation: VIP creates a near-perfect vacuum, drastically reducing heat transfer and preventing convective heat loss. 
• Reliable Cooling: VIP ensures stable temperatures, even in harsh conditions, keeping your items consistently chilled. 
• Energy Efficient: The advanced insulation reduces power consumption, making it ideal for extended off-grid use without sacrificing cooling performance. 
• Lightweight Design: VIP allows for thinner insulation, keeping the cooler both lightweight and easy to carry. 

Yes, cleaning your CFX electric cooler is simple. Just wipe down the interior and exterior surfaces with a mild cleaning solution and a towel. Regular cleaning helps maintain the hygiene and longevity of your cooler.

Lift the flush pedal up to turn on the water valve which allows water to enter the bowl through the bowl rim. 

Typically, the user holds the pedal down until the bowl is fully emptied of tissue and deposits. Once you release the pedal, water will continue to drain into the bowl from the rim until the rim is empty. This water spot will help seal the bowl from the tank.

This will occur if the connection to the water valve is loose. Remove the plastic pedal cover and tighten the hose to the water valve. If it is already tight, check the water valve for leaks due to freeze damage or worn seals. 

Dometic recommends the use of a marine holding tank treatment (like the Dometic MAX Control line) to eliminate odors and help break down solids. An added level of control would be to add a Dometic vent filter to the vent line, although we still recommend the use of a holding tank treatment with this. Check your local and regional laws for chemicals that cannot be used in your area as this changes from time to time. 

Add holding tank treatment when you launch your boat for the season. Follow the instructions on the label for water needs if the tank is dry. Also add a charge of holding tank treatment after every pump-out. No need to add more water since the tank will already have water in it following the pump-out.

There is a spare parts list that was included with your toilet so that you can order the correct item through an authorized Dometic dealer or online at sierraparts.com.

Dometic recommends a fast-dissolving tissue (like Dometic Ultra Dissolving 2-ply toilet tissue). This will help eliminate the possibility of a clog when emptying your tank at a dock side pump or through a discharge pump in areas that allow waste discharge.

When you depress the flush pedal, you can see the content level in the tank. You can also see the support pillars for the toilet. If the waste is close to the top of those pillars, your tank is pretty full and should be pumped out. Remember to add a charge of holding tank treatment to the tank after every pump-out to maintain the odor and waste control. 

Trim tabs are movable metal tabs of various sizes that extend beyond the edge of the hull bottom at the transom.  Adjusting their position up or down can help to level the boat in changing sea conditions and loads and “fine-tune” the ride, resulting in improved control of the vessel for the skipper and a more comfortable experience for everyone onboard.  

A quality trim tab system will also enhance overall boat performance and increase fuel efficiency.  It does this by helping the operator achieve the vessel’s optimum running angle — the specific configuration where ride and engine performance are optimized.  Since it is a dynamic system that can be adjusted “on the fly” for changing conditions — changes in weight load and distribution, wind/wave angle, running up or down swell, etc. — trim tabs can keep a boat performing at peak efficiency in any situation.

Here are some additional key benefits to Trim Tab use:

a) Get out of the hole and onto plane faster.  A boat that gets on plane quickly is more efficient and more effective for water sports, shallow water fishing and other activities.

b) Stop boats from “porpoising.”  The bow of a poorly trimmed boat can rhythmically rise and fall (like a porpoise jumping and falling below the surface).  Trim tabs can be used to eliminate this uncomfortable and inefficient hull behavior.

c) Stay on plane at lower speeds.  A boat’s ability to remain on plane when speed is reduced makes it more efficient, more comfortable, and easier to control. 

d) Reduce listing. This is the side-to-side roll/tilting of the vessel due to propeller torque and/or uneven weight distribution.  Adjusting the trim tabs can eliminate this, even as people move and weight is shifted around the vessel.

Every powerboat with a planing-style hull will receive a ride, performance, and efficiency upgrade with the installation of a quality trim tab system.  A quality trim tab system can transform your entire boating experience, and help ensure ease of control in a variety of conditions.

Most systems will be switch or dial controlled, used to deploy and adjust the tabs to the desired position. In most instances, you will first utilize your tabs on acceleration to get you out of the hole and up onto plane in the shortest time and with a minimum of bow rise. Tab deployment will push the bow down and assist you in adjusting your vessel ride to the optimum running angle, allowing you to see the horizon and what is in front of you. 

When up and running, trim tabs can be adjusted to level the running attitude (bow up or down) and roll (side to side) to find the best position for the given conditions.  This reduces pounding and spray in the cockpit, while optimizing performance and fuel economy.

The Standard Dometic Trim Tab System can be installed by a competent DIY boat owner — but this would depend on the capability of the boat owner, and whether they have the required tools. A new install can actually be much easier to do yourself than replacing a system (older systems can often rust together). For the Dometic Adaptive Trim Tab System, we recommend installation by a trained marine dealer. 

Fuel savings result from reducing the time and engine power it takes for your boat to get on plane, because the vessel spends less time running at an inefficient angle. The use of trim tabs also allows your boat to remain on plane at lower engine speeds. These two factors, combined with reducing hull drag in a wide range of changing running conditions, help result in reducing overall fuel consumption. 

It’s best to talk to a marine dealer about your vessel requirements, but you can apply general trim tab sizing rules to get a general idea.

Not all boats are created equal, especially in the transom area. Some have shallow transoms. Others have multiple outboards or swim platforms that can limit the available transom space for trim tabs. The right tab size for your boat will be determined by a number of factors, including boat length and weight. The larger the tab size, the more lift they create. As a rule of thumb, go with the largest tab size that your transom will accommodate.

As a general guideline, one inch of trim tab span (per side) for every foot of boat length (for example, a pair of 24” wide tabs for a 24-foot LOA vessel).      

NOTE: Many experts will advise on fitting the largest tabs that will fit on the transom.

The intuitive dial controller is what makes the Dometic Adaptive and Standard systems unique. The dial allows for easy and extremely precise adjustment, removing any guesswork from levelling your boat.

The controller allows you to easily adjust the pitch and roll to get your boat on plane quickly and efficiently. The controller works by simply turning the dial in the direction you want to level the boat.  When you do, the actuators respond quickly and precisely to adjust the ride.

There are also single-press Bow Up and Bow Down buttons for manual adjustment of running attitude, and a Favorite Button that lets boaters easily save the desired tab position. This makes it easy to return to a boat’s “sweet spot” ride position with the touch of a finger. The system’s Home Button quickly moves tabs to the home position.

SIERRA's digital gift cards are valid for one year from the date of purchase.Any balance left on the card after expiration will no longer be available to use on SierraParts.com.

Congratulations on your SIERRA digital gift card! It's easy to use.

There is a code listed on the gift card you received in your email. You can copy and paste that code at checkout in the "Discount code or gift card" field. Click the "Apply" button. The balance on your gift card amount will automatically be applied to your purchase.

You can use your digital gift card for any product purchases on SierraParts.com. However, you can not use a gift card for shipping and return fees or backorders.

No. At this time, if you choose to apply a gift card for your purchase, the avaialble balance will be used to cover your order. For example, if your order total is $50 and you have a gift card that's worth $100, our website will use $50 from your gift card to cover your purchase, leaving a balance of $50 on your gift card. In this scenario you would not be able to use just $25 of your gift card.

If your order is less than the value of the gift card, you can place another order, or add more items to your cart and use the remaining balance. 

Find the email confirmation for your gift card. Then click the "View gift card balance" link. Remember that SierraParts.com digital gift cards are valid for one year from the purchase date. 

Please contact customer service if you're unable to find your gift card. 

Use aerosol when can temperature is between 15ºC and 30ºC (60ºF and 86ºF). Ambient temperature should be between 21ºC and 27ºC (70ºF and 80ºF). Ideal humidity should be >50%.

A primer may be required before painting. Check label directions to see if a primer is recommended and , if so, for what applications.

It is better to apply several light coats than one heavy coat. See label directions for recommended recoating time.

Use a 108-320 wet or dry sandpaper to remove rust, scratches, or bad surface damage. Then use 600 grit wet or dry sandpaper to remove 320 grit scratches. Wet sand the entire area to be spray painted with 1500 grit wet sandpaper for adhesion purposes. Entire area to be painted should be dull and smooth. Thoroughly clean the area to be repaired with dish soap (Joy, Dawn, etc) and water. Completely dry the area. Use prep solvent and a clean lint free towel to assure the surface is free of wax, oil, and other surface contaminates. For better results, do not apply paint in direct sunlight, high humidity, or where silicone waxes and tire dressings are present. Mask off adjacent panels to prevent overspray.

Shake primer well. Apply aerosol primer spray paint over clean scuffed metal or plastic. Primer will fill 320 grit wet sandpaper scratches. Apply 3 or more coats waiting until dry in between coats. When dry, primer can be rough sanded with 400 grit sandpaper. The final sanding should be done with a 600 grit wet sandpaper. Before using the basecoat color, clean with water and/or prep solvent. Dry the area thoroughly. Use a tack rag to clean the area from light dust. The area needs to be clean and completely dust free.

Mask off adjacent panels to prevent overspray. Thoroughly shake the base coat color before applying. Apply as many medium coats needed to cover the area. Each coat should appear uniform and dry before applying the next coat.

Shake clear coat well. Allow 30 minutes of drying after the base coat color has been applied. Apply 3-4 coats waiting 5-10 minutes in between coats. Each coat should look wet and glossy but not dripping. Wait one day to sand and polish. Clearcoat can be lightly wet sanded with 1500 grit sandpaper to correct texture or to remove dirt from the finish. Rubbing compound will remove 1500 grit sandpaper scratches from paint and will also bring the clearcoat to a high gloss. Do not wax for one month.

Ballast pumps are a necessity for boaters utilizing ballasts on board their vessels. Ballast pumps are DC motor-driven water pumps that transfer external water into a ballast tank or bag, changing the mass of the boat and displacing the hull deeper in the water. This causes a dynamic change in both the wake size and shape.   
 
Bigger and better waves are the goal for wakeboarders and wake surfers. Wake boats with a ballast system can create the ideal wake for longer rides and more complex stunts.   

1. Remove the screws from the cover plate on the pump to access the impeller location.

2. When the plate is off, use a pick tool to reach under the old impeller and remove it.

3. Inspect the housing when the old impeller is out of the pump. Clean any debris or foreign material which may cause extra wear on the new impeller.

4. Align the keyway on the pump shaft matching the D-shaped pattern on new impeller’s hub. Slide the impeller on the shaft back into the housing.

5. All the impeller’s blades should face a clockwise direction after installation.

6. Replace the pump housing’s O-ring. No silicone is needed for this step. New O-rings are included in Sierra ballast impellers.

7. Attach the cover plate back to the pump housing using the screws that were removed in step #1. Tighten screws to seal the housing.

8. Verify that the impeller is working properly and check for leaks.

Over time, ballast pump components like the impeller wear down and require periodic maintenance. If your ballast pump is leaking water or is not transferring water as fast as it used to, it may be time to service your ballast pump. Sierra recommends servicing ballast impellers at least annually.  
 
Sierra offers impeller repair kits for many Johnson and Jabsco ballast pumps. Buy Sierra for high-quality replacement parts at an affordable price. 

If you're not satisfied with your purchase, you can return it for any reason within 30 days of your purchase, provided it has not been customized, is unused, and is still in its original packaging. Start your return by filling out the Customer Return Form.

Orders placed on Sierraparts.com ship out on the same day if the order is placed before 2 pm CST. If your order is placed after 2 pm CST, it will be dispatched the following day.

Products are delivered throughout the United States using Fedex Ground. We offered a standard flat rate of $9.99 on all orders, with FREE shipping on orders over $149. Shipping costs are calculated in the shopping cart and will be added to the order total before checkout.

Once your order is picked up, scanned and shipped, we will send you a shipment confirmation email that includes your tracking details. Users who create an account through SierraParts.com can also view and track their orders in the account section.

To cancel your order, please contact our customer service team. You can use the form below or call a customer service representative during business hours. Please note that orders cannot be cancelled or modified once we have started preparing your products for shipment.

Return requests can be submitted here or requested through your customer account.

You can search for your product's Warranty Statement here.

You can fill out your warranty form for your claim by visiting the Warranty Form for your claim here.

Registering your product verifies your ownership of that product. Once you register your product, we will be able to diagnose and service any issues faster and more accurately, keep you up to date on all system, safety and any recall notifications and also help you manage your warranty status and warranty extensions more conveniently. You can register your product here. 

You can register your product by filling out our Product Registration Form. 

There are several ways to contact our support team. Visit our support page for more information. For specific issues related to our area of application, please fill out our Product Support Form.

Please reach out to our customer service team by submitting an enquiry through the support form. For further customer service support, please contact us at support@sierraparts.com where you'll be able to submit your question.  If you would prefer to speak to a representative on the phone, please dial 1-800-648-3976.

If you need assistance determining the correct part number, start by using our Parts Finder tool.

Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery chemistry is rated to provide 2,000 charge cycles compared to lead acid at 500 cycles.

Yes. The PLB40 is integrated with an 8A smart DCDC charger, this will allow charging via a 12V DC socket in the vehicle unlike other leading lithium batteries.

Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries have very low self-discharge rate and stable output voltage at 12V. LiFePo4 batteries can deliver much higher energy density in comparison to other chemistries.  They are safe batteries and suitable to work in harsh ambient temperature. With the built-in BMS they are self-protected against overcharge, deep discharge and over/under temperature situation. Allows up to 2000 discharge cycle at 80% depth of discharge. In terms of weight they are lighter than other chemistries make them more suitable for portable applications.

You can charge the PLB40 from your vehicle’s 12V socket while powering a CFX or powered cooler.  Plus, you can remove your PLB40 from your vehicle to power your cooler wherever you go- a campsite, the beach, or BBQ.

Yes.  We have designed the PLB40 to be able to charge and power a CFX at the same time.

150W inverter.

Lithium iron phosphate batteries are able to operate in a wide temperature range. The recommended range to charge the PLB40 is from 0C to +45C (32F to 113F) and to discharge is from  -10C to +55C (14F to 131F).  You may use the product outside of these ranges but could experience loss of performance.

We have tested Goalzero, Renogy, Overland Solar, and Flexopower.  We recommend using a solar panel with output between 8-25V DC and no greater than 180W.  Do not use a solar panel with a charge controller as the PLB40 is integrated with a DC-DC charger and may cause your panel not to product power.  The 12V input to the PLB40 battery is a gray SB50 Anderson connector.  We recommend checking with your solar panel manufacturer to ensure compatibility.

We recommend setting your battery protection level to “Low” when using your Dometic powered cooler with the PLB40.

Stored fully charged and be sure to recharge every 6 months.  Discharge rate is approximately 3-5% per month.

20A 3AG glass slow-blow fuse.

No, the PLB40 is not recommended for use as a jump starting device.  It can provide output to a battery source via the 12V output though with a max current of 15 amps.

The battery pack is already integrated with a smart DCDC charger, therefore the PLB40 can be connected directly to a solar panel without NEED of regulator, considering the fact that the voltage from solar panel should be 8-25V DC and also the current should be limited up to 8A DC.

The PLB40 has a PWM DC-DC controller.

Yes, cleaning your CFX electric cooler is simple. Just wipe down the interior and exterior surfaces with a mild cleaning solution and a towel. Regular cleaning helps maintain the hygiene and longevity of your cooler.

VIPs – Vacuum Insulated Panels – the latest electric cooler insulation technology, 
that keeps your cooler cold, light, and efficient. 
 
Just like the insulation in your water bottle – by eliminating gas molecules, VIPs drastically reduce heat transfer. The result? Your CFX5 stays cold with less energy, while remaining compact and lightweight. More efficiency, more cooling, less bulk. 
 
Benefits of VIP: 

• Effective Thermal Insulation: VIP creates a near-perfect vacuum, drastically reducing heat transfer and preventing convective heat loss. 
• Reliable Cooling: VIP ensures stable temperatures, even in harsh conditions, keeping your items consistently chilled. 
• Energy Efficient: The advanced insulation reduces power consumption, making it ideal for extended off-grid use without sacrificing cooling performance. 
• Lightweight Design: VIP allows for thinner insulation, keeping the cooler both lightweight and easy to carry. 

If your CFX5 isn’t turning on, it may need a reset. follows these steps:

·       Hold the button for 5 seconds

·       Click once (hold for 1 second)

·       Unplug from the wall completely. DO NOT power down first, or the reset information won’t take effect.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mrujyuyw2E 

Dometic does not offer repair parts for any steering helms or cables. All helms and cables must be replaced as units. If the helm in question is within our 2-year warranty period, we will authorize a free replacement helm (not including labor). Attempting to repair a helm will void the warranty and can lead to steering failure, which may result in personal injury and property damage.

The standard bezel (mount) kit included with the stering system allows the helm to be installed at 90 degrees (perpendicular) to the surface of the dash. Optional bezel kits for rotary steering systems provide the ability to mount the helm at 20 degrees from perpendicular. The rack and pinion system uses "wedge kits" that provide 10 and 20 degree angles.

For rotary steering (Safe-T QC, NFB Safe-T II, 4.2, or Xtreme), order 20 degree bezel kit part number SB27483P. For rack and pinion steering (NFB, Non-NFB, and Pro Rack), order 10 degree wedge kit part number SB27448P or 20 degree wedge kit part number SB27449P.

There are several methods, depending on the type and model of steering. 

For mechanical rack and pinion steering, attach the cable to the engine, then center the engine and center your steering wheel. Then bolt the rack to the helm. (You may have to wiggle the steering wheel to get the gears to mesh.)

For mechanical rotary steering helms, the starting steering wheel positin when you first feed the cable into the helm determines where it will be when the steering cable is centered. To center the steering wheel properly, we suggest orienting the wheel (depending on the rotary helm installed) in the positions depicted below. These starting positions assume the helm is mounted for an ordinary starboard cable exit.

You won't have to worry about centering a steering wheel when installing hydraulic steering. Due to a small amount of "slip" or "drift" inherent in any hydraulic system, the steering wheel will not remain centered. The use of a wheel with equidistant spokes is the best solution for hydraulic steering since that type of wheel has no natural "up", "down", or "sideways" position. 

First determine the brand of steering in your boat, then whether it is mechanical or hydraulic.

If you do not have Dometic steering, either:

a) Replace the helm and cable (or hoses and cylinder) with a Dometic system or
b) Contact the steering maker for options. Tilt steering is not available for all systems.

If you have a Dometic rotary steering system that was made after 1991 or rack steering made after 1996, you probably only need to purchase a tilt helm and tilt mechanism.

Tilt helms are offered for these Dometic systems:

Safe-T QC (1991-present)
"The Rack" Rack & Pinion NFB rack (1996-present)
NFB Rotary (1991-present)
HPS (2000-present)
SeaStar & SeaStar Pro (1991-present)
BayStar (2001-present)

NOTE: Some pre-1991 hydraulic, pre-1991 rotary, and pre-1996 rack systems may require purchase of additional items and/or modification of the dash. Please contact Tech Support for assistance.

Tilt helms have a special shaft to engage the tilt mechanism; a non-tilt helm cannot be used.

Without the steering wheel on the shaft, NFB helms are very difficult to turn by hand. The reason is that the no-feedback clutch is always on standby to grip the helm shaft and hold it steady against torque feedback from the engine (which can make the steering wheel turn on non-NFB systems). Once the helm is mounted in the dash and the steering wheel is properly attached, you will be able to turn the shaft with a little pressure on the wheel. Follow the installation instructions completely.

Generally, replace rotary with rotary, rack & pinion with rack & pinion, and hydraulic with hydraulic. Rotary gearboxes are round in shape. Rack & pinion helms are tubular and connect to a long, thin metal rack housing. The following is a brief cross reference for the most popular non-Dometic systems:

Rotary: Use Dometic HPS or Safe-T QC for power-assisted or NFB 4.2 Rotary for non-power-assisted.

Morse Command 200 Rack: Use Dometic Back Mount Rack for power-assisted or NFB Rack for non-power-assisted, and The Pro Rack for dual cable boats.

Dometic does not make adapters or interface parts to connect an autopilot to mechanical cable steering. This is left to the autopilot manufacturers. We do, however, strongly recommend that if you are installing an autopilot, upgrade your mechanical steering to a Dometic hydraulic system, which is designed to interface with most autopilots and will give you superior all-around performance. 

NOTE: Autopilots cannot be used with any type of mechanical NFB (no-feedback) steering. In that case, you MUST upgrade to Dometic. 

If you have an outboard or sterndrive with non-power-assisted steering, we recommend you use either a no-feedback (NFB) mechanical or hydraulic system. For boats with power-assisted steering, use HPS (mechanical) or Dometic. If you have or plan to install an autopilot, use Dometic hydraulic steering. 

Be sure you have the correct cable for the helm on the boat (or vice versa). There are several kinds of cables and helms that are not interchangeable; this is true whether the system is rotary or rack & pinion. 

Be sure you have measured properly and ordered the correct length of cable. (The #1 reason for cable returns is "wrong length ordered".)

Follow the installation instructions for steering products completely. This will ensure the maximum performance and reliability of the product. If the instructions are missing, contact the manufacturer.

Handle the products with care and do not expose them to impact or external stress.

Allow for generous (large) cable bends, notably where the cable exits from the helm (or rack housing) and where the cable makes the bend to connect to the engine/drive/rudder. The tighter the bends, the stiffer the cable will tend to be in operation. Also, tight bends reduce cable life. NOTE: 8" is the minimum bend radius generally recommended for Dometic steering cables. 

When using tie wraps to affix the cable along the gunwale areas, allow some slack (do not cinch tight). Slack in the tie wraps allows for cable flex as it is actuated. This leads to smoother operation and longer life. 

Replace all worn steering connection/mounting components with correct replacement parts that are designed for the application. Do not substitute parts. If you think parts are missing from a kit, contact your distributor or the kit manufacturer for replacements.

When installing the cable at the engine end, be sure to lubricate the telescopic ram (output end that slides in and out) with liberal amounts of good, water-resistant marine grease. This is especially critical if the steering cable is connected through the engine tilt tube as this area tends to get very rusty.

Avoid the use of add-on grease-fitting products designed to lubricate cables. These units can in fact force old grease, dirt, and rust onto the moving internal parts of a steering cable, shortening its life. 

There is no substitute for proper maintenance procedures.