FAULT | POSSIBLE CAUSE | REMEDY |
Heater will not start | a) heater cable disconnected | Examine plug and socket contacts and insert plug firmly into socket |
b) fuse blown | Test for earth fault and replace fuse | |
c) saloon thermostat operated (auto types only) | Check saloon temperature and test by shorting out saloon thermostat | |
d) control panel or wiring | Change panel and test on test rig | |
e) motor o/ circuit | Change heater. If within 4 months of installation test on rig wires 8/9 | |
f) excess heat thermostat or micro switch on electronic type o/ circuit | Ensure battery voltage at 20v minimum. Replace heater and test on rig | |
Stops at end of cycle | a) fuel fault | Ensure fuel supply to heater - fuel valve unrestricted. Check battery voltage at 20v minimum (with lights off). Lightly tap solenoid to assist if voltage is low |
b) flame detection thermo or thermistor on electronic type o/ circuit | Replace thermostat, remove heater if fitted with electronic type and test on rig | |
c) glow plug carbonised or o/ circuit | Check battery voltage with lights off. Replace glow plug, check resistance box for heat indicating circuit complete | |
Stops after a few minutes | a) poor combustion | Check battery voltage with lights off. Ensure motor speed correct and not fouled mechanically |
b) fuel restriction | Ensure fuel lines clear and filter satisfactory. Check for water content or dirt | |
c) excess heat thermostat or thermistor on electronic type operating | Check saloon air intake filter for restricted air flow, noted by overheat indication on outer case around output end of heater | |
Will not stop (cold air) | a) flame detaction thermostat or thermistor (electronic type) sticking or o/ circuit | Change thermostat - change heater and test on rig |
b) relay contacts shorted on auto type | Replace auto panel | |
Running slow | a) battery voltage low | Switch lights off and check battery charge |
b) motor commutator or brushes faulty | Tap heater lightly at fan end to check - renew heater | |
Excessive smoke | a) battery volts low | Charge battery |
b) Fuel lines drawing air | Check all fuel line nuts | |
c) Heater flooded with fuel | Clear drain plug | |
Smoke entering compartments | a) Smoke drawn into air intake | Check excessive smoke cause |
b) Fuel pipe washer to pump defective | Replace heater | |
c) Heat exchange holed | Replace heater |