Not long ago there was a discussion about dash gauges going blank while engine still would start. I shared that I had replaced two ignition solenoids, the last not quite a year ago. Well, darned if it isn't happening again.. A couple days ago I turned the key, nothing came on, but engine turned over. About the time I lifted the dash to bang on the solenoid, I heard a click and the dash came to life. Since then, each time I turn the Cummins on, I can hear the solenoid "stutter" as it attempts to pull the contacts together. One of these times it's not going to work.
Fortunately I carry a backup, but I couldn't find a 200 amp in Nacogdoches, so a 125 amp will have to do. Speaking of the 200 amp Cole-Hersee solenoids, the two I have installed haven't lasted more than three years between them. We only use the coach for about 5 months each year, so it doesn't get nearly the use of full-timers. Does anyone have any ideas as to why these have been so short-lived? I question whether I should make the effort to order a new one if they aren't going to last a year.
Don,
What brand does FT use? How much does Parts want for it?
Don,
After going through the same thing several times over the years on our coach, I spent the extra money and went with this one: http://bluesea.com/category/1/products/9012 (http://bluesea.com/category/1/products/9012)
An electronic switch rated for 1 million cycles. Continuous rating 450 amps, in-rush rating 2,000 amps.
I replaced mine September 2001 and have had no further problems.
West Marine and other marine stores sell them.
Brett Wolfe
Sounds like it could be a poor connection, either on the B+ side or the ground side.
Sure worth a look see and check it out.
Poor grounds can be difficult to trouble shoot unless you keep a clear head.
One of my techs got a first hand test on poor grounds, could not find it, said we needed new wire.
Problem was a simple poor bond to ground. He will not forget that one, I HOPE.
FWIW
Dave
Hi Brett,
Do you know the cost of the solenoid you now use?
Thanks,
http://www.shopping.com/-blue+sea++9012 (http://www.shopping.com/-blue+sea++9012)
Brett Wolfe