Waeco <span class="highlight">power</span> <span class="highlight">packs</span>

Personally I think they are *grossly* overpriced for what they are.
Why not invest in a solar panel that will last 20 years + and a cheaper deep cycle battery - around $100 max.
A 60w panel like a BP SX60 should go very close to giving you ample power for your fridge and a couple of fluoro and not have to need to run your generator at all. This URL below is the cheapest I have seen the BP SX60 panels. $576 incl GST and delivery. If you find a cheaper website, please post back as I need to buy a new one myself.
http://www.coiltek.com.au/Products/solar_panels.htm

You can find details of the BP SX60 here:
http://www.bpsolar.com/ContentDetails.cfm?page=40

I realise the price of an SX60 and a cheaper deep cycle battery is more expensive than what you are looking at purchasing. However look at the investment you are getting for 20+ years, and the saving of running your generator - not just the fuel, but the normal wear and tear and maintainence.
What you also need to check, is how long that Thumper has been at the dealers and the date of manufacture. Anything longer than six months, don't touch it. If you do intend to buy one, demand a fresh manufacture unit.

Damn fine generator those Honda EU.

Chris
I am also looking at a portable power pack for my stainless steel 80L engel. The thumper is at the top of my list also but at around $650 is quite pricey. Does any body know what is the life expectancy of the battery would be and the approximate cost of a replacement. I know a dual battery system would be the easiest answer but my fridge is shared between vehicles
Thanks

Chris.
When you buy a thumper all you get is a battery in a fancy box and a charger. You can buy a better battery and a better charger for a lot less seperately. The best price for me was from an electric wheel chair agent.
Eric.

Hi Chris,
I have a Waeco Urban battery pack and it seems to be ok for what I want.
I use it to run a Waeco CF50 fridge overnight at camp and then recharge
it as required. It is also running bushman fluro lights at night and seems to last alright, about 20 hours run time all up.

It will depend on your needs which one would do what you want.

I recommend going for the Waeco outback, it will give you a tad more running time.

Regards,
David

Chris.
You have answered your own question, the battery cost $45 therefore the plastic box costs $300+, Why buy the box?
Eric.

If anyone is interested in these waeco power packs they can be bought as factory seconds at www.fridgeshop.com. The thumper is about $130.00 off the normal prices. They have some great deals on factory seconds fridges as well.