Replacement 13.5K BTU AC for Thor Chateau Sport  

Question:

Expert Reply:

Hey Chuck,

Welcome back! From what I was able to find, part number 8333A876 cross-references to a Coleman Mach air conditioner. If it's more than a couple of years old, it most likely uses the older R410A refrigerant. You can confirm this by checking the label beneath the air distribution box (ADB) or on the service tag located on the rooftop unit itself. If your unit does use R410A and you're planning to repair it, you'll need to source a compatible R410A Coleman Mach replacement unit or the appropriate repair parts, depending on what's failed.

If you're considering replacing the air conditioner instead, it's unlikely you'll be able to reuse your existing air distribution box. The exception would be if you discover your current unit is already an R32 model and you're replacing it with another compatible Coleman Mach R32 unit, such as # CM97RR. Otherwise, you'll need to purchase a complete A/C system that includes the manufacturer-specific air distribution box and controls.

Regarding the Advent systems you were looking at, the # ADV77QR is essentially the updated version of the # ADV23SR. Both are 13,500 BTU, R32, non-ducted air conditioner systems that use controls built into the air distribution box rather than a wall thermostat.

The primary differences are cosmetic and ergonomic:

The # ADV77QR features a redesigned air distribution box with flat touch-style buttons instead of the rotary knobs used on the older # ADV23SR.
The rooftop shroud has also been updated with a newer design, but the cooling performance and overall functionality are very similar between the two systems.

What was the last trip you took in your Thor Chateau Sport?

expert reply by: Christopher H

0

Chuck B.

7/27/2026

Thanks Christopher. The last trip we took in the RV was for three weeks, a couple of months ago. The RV is parked in out driveway and we are doing repairs and upgrades for the next trip, which is planned for next month. That's why the AC unit has become top priority. We are heading north for about four weeks. I am looking for a drop in unit that I can just remove the older unit and replace it with a newer one. This is the original AC that came with the RV in 2000. It was working fine until a couple of days ago. Then turned it on and nothing but room temperature air. Checked the capacitors and they are all functioning. But the compressor is not coming on. Everything inside the unit is moving but it's all pretty rusted too. I see some negative reviews on the Advents but many are damages in shipping. This is always a concern for me when ordering appliances. I have replace a few of these roof units so I know what will need to be done. I did replace the plenum on the current unit a few months ago. It is Part Number: CM46RR. I would like to reuse it if possible. So that's it. I need a replacement that is within my budget. This is a 26 year old unit, so I'm not looking for the gold standard. Just a reliable unit that can be installed without reinventing the wheel. Just a unit that is reliable and will last a while. Chuck

Christopher H.

7/27/2026

@ChuckB The # CM46RR is the Coleman air distribution box designed for non-ducted R32 air conditioning systems. I'm not certain that's the exact air distribution box you have, but according to Coleman, it is not backward compatible with older R410A rooftop units. In your situation, I think the most cost-effective solution is to replace the entire system with something like the Advent Air RV Air Conditioner System # ADV77QR. Since it includes the rooftop unit and the matching air distribution box, you won't have to worry about compatibility issues between old and new components. For comparison, purchasing a Coleman replacement rooftop unit by itself, such as # CM97RR, actually costs more than the complete Advent system, and you'd still need to ensure all of your existing components are compatible. In my experience, the Advent systems have proven to be every bit as reliable as the other major brands we carry, and they offer excellent value for a complete replacement.

Chuck B.

8/3/2026

Thanks Christopher. That answers all my questions. I do have a concern about all the reports of damaged units while shipped. I have had these experiences in the past with appliances. Will get back to you soon. Chuck

Christopher H.

8/3/2026

@ChuckB No problem at all! Please let us know if you have any other questions.