Replacement for Dometic Duo-Therm Brisk Air in 2002 Newmar Kountry Aire  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Hey Rod!

To replace the Dometic Duo-Therm 59516.331 in your 2002 Newmar Kountry Aire, unfortunately you're going to need a whole new system. Your existing Duo-Therm system uses an older control platform that isn't compatible with current-generation air conditioners. Modern rooftop units also use different refrigerant and control components, so the rooftop units, air distribution boxes, and thermostat all need to be updated together.

Because of that, Furrion Chill HE RV AC System w/ Thermostat # FR73TD is the perfect way to start because it's a kit that contains an AC unit, air distribution box, and a thermostat. The Furrion multi-zone thermostat included in the kit is compatible with RV propane furnaces, so you'll still be able to control both air conditioners and both furnaces from a single thermostat once the new control system is installed.

To replace that second unit, you'll need Furrion Chill HE RV Air Conditioner # FR86TD and Replacement Air Distribution Box for Furrion Chill RV Air Conditioners # FR68TD and that will complete your setup to use and control both air conditioners and heaters from your single thermostat.In most cases, the existing thermostat and furnace wiring can be reused, so you typically won't need to open up the walls. You'll simply replace the control components that come with the new system.

Are your current air conditioners ducted with ceiling vents, or do they blow directly into the room through a ceiling assembly? That will let me make sure I'm recommending the correct parts for your setup.

expert reply by: Jerry B

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Rod O.

7/24/2026

Hi Jerry, thanks for your thoughtful reply. Yes, our a/c's are ducted through roof vents. I don't know if this makes a difference, but our trailer is static so I'm planning on doing this upgrade myself. Thanks, Rod Olson

Jerry B.

7/24/2026

@RodO Perfect, all of these parts will work together and have no issues installing in your coach! It is also possible to do the install yourself, but you'll want help. I especially recommend help for getting that AC unit to the roof. We have lots of videos to help with install and for the worst case scenario, we also have an installer locator for you.

Rod O.

7/24/2026

@JerryB Jerry, I have one more question. The unit that you're recommending has a interior component as a air return. My current system has no such component both the air delivery and return is ducted and no part of the roof unit protrudes into the cabin. To accommodate the interior portion I would need to cut a hole in the interior ceiling and, it appears that I would be cutting through the duct system to do that. Is a system available that has no interior component?

Jerry B.

7/24/2026

@RodO Those units do exist, but we do not carry them at this time. All of our units require an air distribution box which would be attached through a hole in your ceiling.

Dennis J.

7/30/2026

Rod, I have an American Heritage motor home w/three roof top units, on one T-stat. I installed the same unit your looking at and used my 2005 existing T-stat and controllers. The Furrion unit has same simple wire inputs as Colman and others. A input for compressor, fan high-med-low, netrual and ground. That’s it. Suggest you lower your intake grill to expose underside of unit. Get familiar with the controller inputs and outputs. On front or back of control cover is usually schematic. 99% sure you can install this yourself if willing.

Jerry B.

7/31/2026

@DennisJ It's always possible, but we've found that the best way is to use like-parts with like-parts. The new units (R32) since the refrigerant switch in 2025 basically speak a different language than the previous ones (R410a) and when people are able to make them work, they don't normally get full functionality. That being said, I'm sure it's possible but as far as I and my colleagues around the office have seen, it's not reliable or consistent. Have you been able to successfully keep everything working with your OEM thermostat and Furrion unit, or have there been any issues?