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Topic: U280 refrigerator  (Read 424 times) previous topic - next topic

U280 refrigerator

I'm puzzled :headwall:

My fridge started acting up when my battery started it's decline...

Now it holds steady at 12.6v

So I replaced the battery... put it on gas... now the check light comes on... put it on 110v.. fine...
I have thoes 2 settings .. then automatic, shouldn't that also be 12v?

I hear the click in the gas mode... electronic ignition?

Is there a breaker?  What am I missing? Could it be a bad board?
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My advice and experiences are Free, you decide if they are worth anything .

John - driving Old Faithful
1994 U280 GV
C8.3, Banks, Pacbrake, 900 watts, Resonator, XLHD tow dolly
Retired Army Warrant Officer

Life is what you make of it - if it is lemons, make lemonade!
Former Coaches:
1988 GV 40' ORED 300HP CAT - 9 years
1990 Winnebago LeSharo - 3 years
2000 Newmar London Aire - 3 years (#18 of 23 produced)

Re: U280 refrigerator

Reply #1
Yes, the refrigerator PC board, that controls operation on either 120 VAC or propane needs 12+ VDC.

But, if you hear the clicking of the ignitor, it is trying to run on propane.

So, first suspect is that you need to do the ANNUAL burner area tune-up.  No parts needed and no special tools. 

Could be something as simple as a flake of rust shorting the ignitor, accumulated dust in the burner tube, etc that is preventing the PC board from receiving the "yup, flame is burning just fine-- keep the propane on.

Only after the routine service should you begin to troubleshoot, or you might just end up throwing $$ at it.

If you need diagnostic help after doing the tune-up, let us know.
Brett Wolfe
EX: 1993 U240
Moderator, ForeForum 2001-
Moderator Diesel RV Club 2002-
Moderator, FMCA Forum 2009-2020
Chairman FMCA Technical Advisory Committee 2011-2020

Re: U280 refrigerator

Reply #2
Brett is on target. The ignitor is trying to light pilot. But probably no flame. Open side door to fridge drivers side, take off metal shield around ignitor clean out rust and try to light again. 
1995 U320 40', 2013 chevy sonic toad, my real love are corvettes have owned 30

 

Re: U280 refrigerator

Reply #3
I'm puzzled :headwall:

My fridge started acting up when my battery started it's decline...

Now it holds steady at 12.6v

So I replaced the battery... put it on gas... now the check light comes on... put it on 110v.. fine...
I have thoes 2 settings .. then automatic, shouldn't that also be 12v?

I hear the click in the gas mode... electronic ignition?

Is there a breaker?  What am I missing? Could it be a bad board?

Just had similar problem...Turned out to be the thermo coupler BUT...I had to disconnect the J3 and J11 on the Dinosaur board to do a reset. Ordered the coupler and Voila fridge works like a charm.

Live is good  8)
Hans & Marjet
1995 U300 "Ben" (#4719)
3176B Cat,4060HD,Jake
SKP#139131
Motorcade#17579
2006 Honda Element (towed)