[C320-list] Refrigerator Replacement - 1995 Hull 268

[Cliff Lee]

It is time to replace the fridge after 25 years.  While I think the
evaporator may be the problem, better to replace in whole and get the
efficiency improvement.  I've read a lot of the threads on the C320 site,
but I would appreciate your thoughts on:
1.  There is a long, thin wood veneer running along the port side of our
aft berth, about 2 feet above the mattress.  We have routinely had moisture
at the forward point of the veneer over the years.  I suspect it may be
condensation around the refrigerant tubing leaving the fridge, but don't
really know.  I can't find any other leaks in that area.  I am thinking I
may need to remove that veneer anyway to gain access to run the new
refrigerant tubing from the fridge to the port aft locker where our
compressor/condenser is/will be.  Does this sound right and how difficult
is it to remove that veneer?
2.  Suggestions for make/model of fridge?  We currently have an older
Adler-Barbour evaporator mounted vertically on the left side (looking in)
of the fridge compartment, with the compressor and condenser on a shelf in
the aft port locker - that seems like a good spot for us, since there is a
lot of room for cooling air circulation.
3.  How difficult is this project really?  I'm not looking forward to
contorting myself but have been told it is not bad and costs for
professional installation can be pretty high.

Thanks,
Cliff Lee - Comfort Zone 1995 - Hull 268