The Norcold fridge has been problematic on propane from the start, but after
spark electrode adjustments, would always start.
However, on the last camping trip it would no longer light on propane.
Examination revealed very little spark to light the propane. Initially I
thought the problem was the spark electrode but replacement made no
difference. The problem appears that the electronic lighter/relighter does
not seem to create enough spark energy to cause a big spark which is capable
of lighting the fridge.
Since from when the fridge was new, lighting on propane was difficult. I
have know come up with a new way to ignite the propane. I am in the process
of installing a universal barbecue ignitor into the burner box to create the
spark. The original norcold electrode is left in place to sense the flame
(green light) so I know when it has been lighted. Preliminary report is the
spark from the barbecue ignitor is at least 5 times as big as the original.
Lights the propane with one or two clicks of the big red button (the one you
normally press on your propane barbecue to light it). The only disadvantge
is, if the flame where to blow out (never happened to me once lighted) the
system is unable to relight on its own. All safety devices are left in
place so if the flame were to go out the propane does get shut off.
I believe this will solve my propane lighting problems once and for all.
Once final insatllation is done I will post the details. Parts cost for
univeral barbacue ignitor kit $15 canadian.
Tobi
