A/C Removal on Mariner 3297

[gotjeepzj]

I was told when I purchased this boat that the system had a slight free leak. After purchasing Freon the compressor tried to kick on and immediately tripped the breaker. A/C guy said the compressor is most likely locked up. So I’m going to install another A/C. My question is how do you get to the old A/C to remove it? It looks like I need to remove the entire dining site.

[mjk1040]

I'm thinking your on the right track in gaining access to the unit, your going to need lot of room to work.

[gotjeepzj]

I’ll need to pull the carpet on the walls to access the screws and I’m not sure it will ever look ‘normal’ again. I tried on a corner and it stretched the fabric. I was thinking if just mounting it in the space in the dinette set since it’s right next to it. Cut a hole for the new return in the side and hole saw through the back for power, duct, and hoses.

[mjk1040]

Can you access it from the galley cabinets? I owned this model and can't seem to remember exactly how it was laid out AC unit. Can you cut the seating and make replaceable panels? Sorry not much help, hopefully someone here has solved this. Was compressor replacement not an option? If the walling fabric is going to be unusable, maybe remove it all and replace it.

[gotjeepzj]

It is mounted deep under the cabinets. If I remove all the sink plumbing and possible even the sink itself...and cut out a couple of panels from the cabinets....I can probably access it. Not sure how much room I’ll have. I’m 6’ 210 and work out so I’m kinda wide....lol

[km1125]

I'm not familiar with the model or what the dinette is like. Some pictures might help. It could be similar to other installations and other folks might be able to give you some ideas. I think it might be a lot simpler than you are thinking it is.

[gotjeepzj]

Please see the attached

[waybomb]

I found that on my 3697, the salon ac does not look removable, but in fact it is. The cabinet around it is screwed together with aluminum angle-irons and screws. The whole thing comes apart, no cutting needed. Had to remove the ice maker, take the wall apart, and slide the ac out.
Maybe something similar for your model

[km1125]

Have you removed the return air grill? Is that too small of a hole to get the unit out?

The dinette looks like a nice one-piece unit... is it possible that whole thing is removable and then the panel on the backside of the galley comes off? (looks like I can see screws in the upper right corner of that panel in the pic)

carver_hvac_edit1.jpg

[tomschauer]

OK, I know nothing about your boat, but from the pic above there has to be a way to remove the unit.
Look closely from the inside. The panel with the return grill and control may be able to be removed with screws from the back side. Worst case, maybe remove the oven and slide it around to there. Carver uses all available space, but I have yet to come across a wear item that cant be removed without cutting up the boat.