The complete guide to avoid mistakes and guarantee the performance of your refrigeration unit.
Choosing the right parts for a truck fridge can quickly become a headache. Between system part numbers, brands, motorized versions, refrigeration unit models and year-to-year differences, it's easy to make a mistake and buy an incompatible part. The result: time wasted, money wasted, truck immobilized... in short, everything a carrier wants to avoid.
In this comprehensive guide, we explain how to identify compatible parts for your truck fridge, what information to check, what mistakes to avoid, and how to simplify your research with professional solutions like those offered by Frigo Parts.
1. Know the make and model of your refrigeration unit
This is the first step: knowing exactly make and model of the refrigeration unit installed on your truck. The two brands most commonly used in refrigerated transport are :
● Thermo King
Widely used in fleets, known for its reliable, long-lasting systems.
See available parts : Thermo King parts
● Carrier Transicold
Another giant in the sector, renowned for its high-performance, energy-efficient units.
See compatible parts : Carrier parts
Each brand has dozens of models (SLXi, T-1200R, Supra, Vector, MX, Xarios, etc.), each requiring specific parts.
To avoid confusion, always note the exact part number on the nameplate.
2. Identify the exact part number of the part to be replaced
The same part can exist in several versions depending on :
- the year of groupe frigo
- system version (R404A, R452A...)
- engine type (diesel, electric, hybrid)
- part generation (old or new)
To avoid buying an incompatible component, always identify :
✔ OEM part number (manufacturer reference)
This number is usually printed on the original part.
Example:
- 12-3456 for one Thermo King part
- 50-12345-00 for one Carrier part
✔ Fridge unit serial number
It confirms the exact version of the model.
✔ Room location or function
Some parts are available in right/left, high/low, etc. versions.
On Frigo Parts, each piece is presented with its own compatible OEM part numbers, which makes searching much easier.
See here: Complete refrigerator parts catalog
3. Determine whether you want original or adaptable parts
There are two main families of parts:
Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts
Advantages :
- guaranteed quality
- optimum service life
- full compatibility
- ATP compliance
Disadvantages :
- higher price
Available here:
➡️ Original parts for truck fridges
Aftermarket parts
Advantages :
- attractive price
- wider availability
- quality correct according to manufacturers
Disadvantages :
- variable quality
- sometimes shorter lifespan
On Frigo Parts, only adaptable parts tested and validated are available.
4. Check refrigerant used (R404A, R452A, etc.)
The refrigerant used by your unit affects the compatibility of certain parts:
- regulators
- pressure switches
- filter driers
- seals and valves
The most common types of fluid are :
- R404A (old but still widely used)
- R452A (modern replacement)
- R134A (used on specific models)
Before ordering a part, check the unit's nameplate or vehicle documents.
Need a filter, pressure switch or compatible regulator?
➡️ See refrigeration parts
5. Take into account the year of manufacture of the refrigeration unit
Manufacturers regularly update their models. A part for a SLXi 2013 may not be compatible with a SLXi 2019.
This is particularly true for :
- compressors
- alternators
- electronic control units
- electrical harnesses
- thermostats
On the Frigo Parts, each product sheet indicates the compatible year ranges, which reduces errors.
6. Never rely solely on the photo of the part
Two pieces may look identical but have :
- a slightly different size
- an incompatible thread
- different operating pressure
- special electrical connectors
Always compare references, never just appearance.
You can filter parts by model:
➡️ Search for a part by fridge model
7. Check dimensions and connectors
Some parts must be compatible to the nearest millimetre:
- condensers
- evaporators
- radiators
- hoses
- wiring
- pulleys
- fans
Check the following points:
✔ Diameter
✔ Length
✔ Screw thread
✔ Electrical connector type
✔ Fluid inlet / outlet
If you're not sure, send a photo to your supplier: chez Frigo Parts, an expert can check compatibility with your model.
8. Choose a reliable supplier
A good supplier of truck fridge parts should offer :
✔ A large Thermo King & Carrier-compatible inventory
Example: Frigo Parts - complete catalog
✔ Tested parts
Parts must be inspected before they are offered for sale.
✔ Expert customer service
Very useful for checking a reference or compatibility.
✔ Fast deliveries
An immobilized truck = financial losses.
✔ Detailed product sheets
With OEM references, photos, compatibility, dimensions...
9. Common mistakes when choosing a part
Here are some common mistakes made by carriers and repairers, and how to avoid them:
❌ Based on appearance
✔ Check the exact references.
❌ Buy a part intended for another model
✔ Always check the exact model of the group.
❌ Forgetting to check the refrigerant
✔ R404A ≠ R452A.
❌ Confusing original and adaptable parts
✔ Be sure to check the category.
❌ Order without checking dimensions
✔ Crucial for fans, hoses, radiators.
10. Where can I find compatible parts?
To simplify your search for truck fridge parts, you can use a specialized site such as Frigo Parts, which proposes :
- Thermo King parts
- Carrier parts
- parts for refrigerated trailers
- electrical, mechanical and refrigeration components
- consumables and maintenance kits
Go directly to the catalog:
👉 https://www.frigo-parts.com/
Conclusion
Choosing compatible parts for a truck fridge requires method and care. Between OEM part numbers, refrigerant, unit model and years of manufacture, a mistake can quickly be made. Fortunately, by following the steps in this guide and using a specialized supplier like Frigo Parts, you can :
- avoid unpleasant surprises
- guarantee compatibility
- extend the life of your refrigeration unit
ensure an uninterrupted cold chain
