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Topic: Hot Ignition Solenoid (Read 593 times) previous topic - next topic

Hot Ignition Solenoid

Hello,

We just purchased our 1993 U280 two weeks ago and after getting it home the ignition solenoid failed. Upon replacement with one that can handle 100 continuous amps I noticed that it gets very hot. The one replaced also would get hot. I see that there are many posts about this solenoid and would like to know if others are getting hot and if there is a fix for this.
Ian Minaert
1993 U280 Build #4324
Cummins 8.3, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake, Aquahot
Valley Center, KS

Re: Hot Ignition Solenoid

Reply #1 –

If your ignition solenoid is getting hot, it is probably "undersized" in terms of amperage capacity.  For your application, I highly recommend the unit linked below.  Install it, and you will be good to go with zero problems for life.  Shop around (online) for the best price.

L Solenoid - 12/24V DC 250A - Blue Sea Systems

See this thread for installation tips:

Ignition solenoid replacement

If you don't want to pay the high price for the Blue Sea 9012, then a Cole Hersee 24213 will also do a excellent job as a ignition solenoid:

Amazon.com: Cole Hersee 24213 12V 200A Continuous Solenoid: Automotive

As an Amazon Associate Foretravel Owners' Forum earns from qualifying purchases.
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: Hot Ignition Solenoid

Reply #2 –
Thanks. That makes sense. I'll give it a try.
Ian Minaert
1993 U280 Build #4324
Cummins 8.3, 6-Speed, Exhaust Brake, Aquahot
Valley Center, KS

Re: Hot Ignition Solenoid

Reply #3 –
One thing to look for is continuous duty.  In an older coach (when I was way younger)  I had one go bad and then bought one that looked like it. About 1 hour into first trip after replacing I started smelling something burning.  Pulled over and started searching. I was surprised to see my new solenoid that I had just replaced was about to start a fire.  That was when I learned the difference between a  starter solenoid and a continuous duty one.
2014 ih45  (4th Foretravel owned)
 1997 36' U295 Sold in 2020, owned for 19 years
  U240 36' Sold to insurance company after melting in garage fire
    33' Foretravel on Dodge Chassis  Sold very long time ago