Part 2 - Troubleshooting and Repair
The Norcold Operator's and Installation Manuals recommend that any of the following service
procedures on the refrigerator should be performed by a qualified RV dealer or a Norcold
authorized service center.
I must also state that if your problem includes the smell of leaking propane or ammonia gas, that
you immediately shut off the propane tank and seek out qualified help in determining the cause
of the leak. Do not travel in or occupy a coach when you can smell propane or ammonia gas.
Troubleshooting Electrical Operation (12 VDC & 120 VAC):
Usually either of the two electrical modes of running the refrigeration unit are problem free. The
unit either gets power to heat up the ammonia gases to work properly, or it doesn't. Norcold
stipulates the requirement for AC voltage as between 108-132 volts. The requirement for DC
voltage is between 11.5-15.4 volts. These voltages should be measured at the refrigerator's power
terminal block on the back of the refrigerator. There are two fuses located near the electrical
terminal block in the wires that run to either of the 150W DC heater or the 180W AC heater. The
AC holds a 3 AMP fuse while the DC line holds a 20 AMP fuse. These are glass fuses so a visual
check or a continuity tester can verify the integrity of the fuse element. Make sure that the
propane tank valve is closed while doing any checking of electrical contacts.
Troubleshooting Propane Gas Operation:
This is the mode of operation that causes almost all of the problems associated with the
refrigerator. There is one rule to remember about troubleshooting any propane related issues with
the refrigerator: "cleanliness is next to godliness". Nearly all of the problems will occur within
the burner box area. My information presented here also assumes that the gas control valve and
safety valve function normally. There have been very few reports of any problems with these
items.
Photo #1
To Next Page
Loading...
