Date:         Wed, 16 Jul 2008 09:55:32 -0700
Reply-To:     Michael Diehr <md03@XOCHI.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Michael Diehr <md03@XOCHI.COM>
Subject:      Re: Dometic won't light troubleshooting
In-Reply-To:  <1CB5B457-38E2-4C39-A05A-5E81CD4F5D00@xochi.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed; delsp=yes

Update :  removed the dometic again, and discovered no spark.   Turns
out the spark wire had been wedged between the left size and the van
and was partially cut when I replaced the fridge.   I insulated the
wire, zip tied it so it wouldn't get stuck again, took the burner box
apart, verified the nozzle had a smooth clear stream of water through
it, cleaned and resealed the box & gaskets, got a propane tank to test
with, and it lit right up on first spark :)

Reinstalled it in the van, and it lit right up again. :)

However, left it running over night, and in the AM the temperature was
about 60 (on 120VAC the temperature overnight was 33).  Grr.  :(

Taking a look at the flame, I see that it's blue, but with some red
glowing part as well.   This suggests to me the flame is not adjusted
properly.    I know in the past my regulator was out of adjustment --
could this cause the flame to look that way or is this more likely a
flame jet problem?


On Jul 14, 2008, at 9:23 PM, Michael Diehr wrote:

> Thanks for all the responses! :)
>
> So, I cleaned & refurbished my dometic, but was out of propane so
> reinstalled it w/o checking the function on the bench.   It works very
> nicely on 120VAC.  However, I just got the propane tank filled and now
> can't get it to light at all - no visible flame or spark.  I tried
> sucking on the drain tube with a hose, but can't smell any propane.
>
> Before I remove the unit again (ugh) is there anything stupidly easy
> that I'm missing?   I'm pretty sure I hooked everything back up
> properly and didn't have any parts left over (a good sign).   How long
> does it take to "bleed" the system of air after it's been taken
> apart?  I've tried holding the gas button for about 5 minutes but no
> luck.
>
> Any tips?