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Rotary Ignition System
The rotary ignitor, located on the right side of the
control box (not installed on some models), produces
an electric charge due to the action of an internal
hammer striking a ceramic element. The electrode
wire carries this charge to the electrode tip and a
spark occurs across the gap to the burner.
A 360° clockwise turn of the rotary ignitor produces
six sparks so, in a normal ignition sequence, at least
three sparks would be produced as the ignitor is turned.
If you are experiencing an ignitor problem, be sure
that there is gas flow to the burners by attempting to
match light your burners (See Normal Operation - Page
20). If match lighting is unsuccessful, refer to Burners
Will Not Ignite — No Gas Flow, Page 32. If match
lighting is successful, the problem lies somewhere
in the ignition system and will need to be traced.
A problem in the ignition system could lie in three
main areas: the rotary ignitor, the electrode wire or
the electrode. The ignitor might not be producing an
electric charge at one or all terminals. The electrode
wire could be crimped or cut, thereby shorting the
electric charge to the casting. The electrode could have
a cracked ceramic or an incorrectly bent tip causing an
improper spark gap.
To determine if the electrode is producing a spark at
the burner, it will be necessary to view the electrode tip.
For rotis burners this is easily done — the electrode is
visible behind the center of the rotis burner. Turn the
rotary ignitor and view the electrode tip for a spark to
the burner. (See Fig. 25) To view the main burner
electrodes, remove your SEAR GRID
®
, briquettes and
LA-VA-GRATE
®
. The electrodes are located in the
collector boxes on the beginning section of each main
burner. (See Fig. 23 and 24) Turn the rotary ignitor and
look for the flash of the spark through the holes in the
collector box. You can also utilize a small mirror
positioned behind the collector box and angled to
view the arc jumping from the electrode tip to the
top surface of the burner. (See Fig. 22 and 23)
We have taken every precaution to assure you
that we have purchased the finest ignition system
available to the industry. Unfortunately, the number
one industry-wide component failure is the ignition
system, since it operates in a hostile environment.
In some cases, it is allowed to remain exposed
to the elements, as with an uncovered grill in a rain
storm. We have no control over these poor consumer
maintenance practices and can only advise you
against them.
Natural Gas Ignition
Due to the many changes in the natural gas
transmission system, gas quality and volatility can
change greatly on an almost day-to-day basis. This has
led to sporadic ignition problems in certain areas. If
you experience ignition problems with your natural
gas grill, please flow these recommendations:
1. Be sure there is gas flow. Match light your grill.
2. Be sure your ignitor is sparking and all electrode
wires are attached (See Rotary Ignition System on
this page and Main Grilling Burners, Page 30).
3. Be sure your electrode settings are correct.
(See Fig. 23)
4. Try lighting your grill by turning the
control knobs to Medium (instead of High)
and igniting.
5. Tilt the collector boxes. (See Fig. 24)
6. If your collector box covers do not have holes
in the top, call your dealer who can supply a
set to you at no charge for replacement on
your grill.
Troubleshooting
YOUR DUCANE
®
GAS GRILL
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