Skip to main content ↑ ↓
Topic: DD won't start (Read 631 times) previous topic - next topic

DD won't start

My 1994 U300 won't start. Although it was fine getting to the dump station, when I went to start the engine to leave... almost nothing. The ignition solenoid (under dash) clicks once but doesn't illuminate the dash lights or gauges. I jumped the power terminals but got the same result. I'm pretty darn sure the transmission is in neutral, but the trans pad won't light up. I have a spare solenoid, but because jumping the terminals didn't work, I doubt that a new solenoid will work. I can't even find the starter, and my engine bay starter switch hasn't worked in a long time. I understand there's a starter solenoid near the isolator - but I can only find the auxiliary and boost solenoids.
 
I'm hoping to get some good advice here, as I have in the past. Thanks, in advance!
 
Larry Butler
Stranded
949.294.5297
Larry Butler
1994 U300 40'

Re: DD won't start

Reply #1 –
Try flipping on the boost switch and see what it does.
91 GV U300 Unihome 40' Build 3811
6V92TA Detroit

Re: DD won't start

Reply #2 –
Thanks, Stump - didn't work. There's voltage to the solenoid, and batteries are fully charged.
Larry Butler
1994 U300 40'

Re: DD won't start

Reply #3 –
Larry,

Did you jump from large lug to the other large lug or from large lug to signal terminal?

That ignition solenoid carries a lot of amps.  Safest way to "jump" it is to mark all the wires on one large lug and move them (add them to) the other large lug.  To "turn it off", you will need to remove the wires and replace them in their original position.

And, absolutely use the boost switch.

And if still no joy, clean and tighten terminals on the batteries.

Them pull out your digital voltmeter and check for 12.2+ VDC at batteries, ignition solenoid, etc.
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: DD won't start

Reply #4 –
Brett, I jumped from large lug to large lug. Last time I had issues with this (3 years ago or so) I actually left a jump wire on the lugs that normally remains disconnected. I cleaned and tightened the battery terminals about 3 weeks ago. Is it a clue that setting the ignition switch to the first click (aux, I guess) only clicks the solenoid but doesn't light up the dash? I have 12.7 volts at the large lugs.
Larry Butler
1994 U300 40'

Re: DD won't start

Reply #5 –
Larry,

The far side (side hot when ignition on) supplies those gangs of individual fuses in the front left of the dash board.

So, if 12+ VDC on both sides of the ignition solenoid, but no gauges, check the fuses (less than 2' from the solenoid under the dash).
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: DD won't start

Reply #6 –
A bit late for this but I no longer then off the engine at fuel isles of dump stations. After my 40+hours stuck on a fuel isle I am "chicken". My issue was the auxiliary start solenoid.

Roland
1993 U280 4341
2010 Jeep Liberty
The Pied Pipers

Re: DD won't start

Reply #7 –
Quote from: Roland Begin –
A bit late for this but I no longer turn off the engine at fuel isles or dump stations.
X2.  After reading your harrowing tale, I adopted the same policy.  Besides, it also keeps the dash air going for the DW...
1993 U280 SE 40' WTBI, Build: 4359
C8.3 300hp, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake
960 watts on the roof (6 x 160)
Sorento (or BOLT) on a Kar Kaddy SS
"Nature abhors a vacuum"

Re: DD won't start

Reply #8 –
First, pull and clean all your battery terminals and posts. Check voltage at the left (outside) ignition solenoid terminal (the large one) under the flip up dash just sitting and also with the key in the start position. Try first jumping from the hot solenoid terminal to the small solenoid terminal (not the ground). That failing, jump the solenoid big terminal to big terminal. Having a digital voltmeter really helps figure out the problem.

Pierce
Pierce and Gaylie Stewart
'93 U300/36 WTBI
Detroit 6V-92TA Jake
1140 watts on the roof
SBFD (ret)

Re: DD won't start

Reply #9 –
Surely you got it started by now what was the problem? 
91 GV U300 Unihome 40' Build 3811
6V92TA Detroit