Propane Solenoid failed ?

[@Michael]

I have a Coachmen Crossfit with what seems like a failed propane solenoid. There is power to the solenoid, but I don't hear the thunk that it normally makes, and of course have no propane at the appliances.

The valve looks like a model V20533.1p like this :

https://store.nashfuel.com/products/v20533-1p

Does anyone know if I can replace the solenoid without replacing the whole valve?

[RT-NY]

Originally Posted by @Michael

Does anyone know if I can replace the solenoid without replacing the whole valve?

I recently replaced the solenoid on my 1999 RT 170. It is a different style than yours (see the pic below), but it was all just one unit. I am not sure on your style of solenoid, but I would be surprised if any part of it could be removed and replaced independently because I would think that the parts function interconnectedly. But mine was 1/4 of the price of yours, so I can see why you would want to try if it is possible!

[hbn7hj]

Smack it with a hammer on a screw driver. Worked for me. The oder agent they put in propane can collect and gum it up.

As for replacing the solenoid I would guess no.

[XLMB]

A cheaper alternative to the solenoid - but with a long lead time.

https://americancng.com/products/rot...lacement-a1572

I bought two to keep one on hand.

You can test the 12 volt power to the solenoid first though to make sure you do not have a bad switch. When on the solenoid is warm/hot to the touch.

The solenoid it self can be tested with a meter for resistance, you can google it.

Finally you could use this strong magnet to test or temporarily hold open the valve:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[@Michael]

Originally Posted by XLMB

https://americancng.com/products/rot...lacement-a1572

Thanks for the links.

I checked the solenoid - it's not passing any current, so likely dead. I can't tell if the valve is stuck or not. Tapping on it didn't make any difference.

I'll try the magnet trick, and order a solenoid. I found one in stock at Nash Propane, but its 4x the price.

https://store.nashfuel.com/products/...42789434753181

https://store.nashfuel.com/products/v20533-1p

--Mike

[hbn7hj]

Contrary to my previous post if the solenoid can be removed (snap ring) it can be replaced. The solenoid isn’t sold alone so it doesn’t make much difference.

And now I see it is sold alone. My older RV uses a manual valve. Inconvenient sometimes but it does have it’s advantages. No current draw for off grid camping being the main one.

[@Michael]

Originally Posted by XLMB

Finally you could use this strong magnet to test or temporarily hold open the valve:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I ordered that magnet, which was able to pull the valve open. So the valve is not stuck. The solenoid is toast. The good news is that I can use the magnet until I can find a replacement solenoid.

Thanks for the tip.

[XLMB]

Originally Posted by @Michael

I ordered that magnet, which was able to pull the valve open. So the valve is not stuck. The solenoid is toast. The good news is that I can use the magnet until I can find a replacement solenoid.

Thanks for the tip.

Glad to hear that you have a workaround until the new solenoid comes in.