QuestionI HAVE A 1987 27FT SOUTHWIND THAT I BOUGHT FOR A FIX ME UP
WINTER PROJECT. ONE OF MY PROBLEMS IS NO LP GAS INSIDE. I HAVE FOUND A SOLENOID ON THE GAS LINE THAT IF I PUT 12 VOLTS TO
IT FROM A BATTERY IT WORKS. SOUTHWIND SAIDS THAT THE LP DETECTOR IS TRIPED TURNING OFF THE SOLENOLD STOPING GAS FLOW.
I CAN'T FIND A LP DETECTOR NO WHERE.IT'S JUST NOT THERE. IS
THERE SOMETHING ELSE THAT APPLIES POWER TO THAT SOLENOLD?
I WOULD SURE APPRECATE YOUR HELP.
THANKS
CAPT DAN
AnswerThe LP detector is a small box, probably has a plastic housing. It will be located close to the floor, probably around the kitchen area.
Once you find the unit, check to see if there are any indicator lights. If there is and they are not lit, there are several potential problems here.
First, check your coach's fuse panel. There should be a fuse marked for the LP Detector. If you don't see one in the panel, find the LP detector in the coach. There is a slight possibility it may have an inline fuse at the wiring going into the unit (at the back). If the fuse is verified as good, you will need to diagnose whether or not the unit is the problem. If you don't have a 12volt tester, remove the wires at the back of the unit and tie them together. If the valve now opens, you will need to replace the LP detector. If it does not, there is a problem in the wiring. You will need a tester to find out where the problem is. If it is before the LP Detector, you may be well off to run a new 12v lead to the unit.
It is also becoming commonplace (as parts are becoming extinct) to eliminate the solenoid valve and install a new "smoke detector" style LP Detector that will activate a siren if LP is detected.
*I recommend that anytime LP Gas is involved that the work be done by a qualified service center due to the risks and potential for hazard.
*The system will need to be leak tested properly which requires special tools not commonly available to the public.
