Do Solenoids Go Bad ? Need Help Diagnosing This ...

[crewofnoka]

We've been having trouble with our Force 10 stove lately. If I've used the stove or oven for while (anything over 10 min.), turn it off and then try to use it again a short time later, the flame is very weak. I can't even light two burners at the same time. If I wait until everything has cooled down then I can use it again.

My husband says the solenoid gets very hot and he thinks that may be a problem so he wants to replace it. Anyone have any other ideas? From what I've read here it shouldn't go bad, but what else could it be? Thought I'd check here before spending $100 for a new solenoid.

Catherine

[speciald@ocens.]

The solenoid will normally get hot when engaged (fuel on). They will go bad; I usually carry a spare when cruising. Are you sure there is propane in the tank?

[zeehag]

check propane in tank nd yes, they do quit working, and they do not need to be hot to stop functioning. they can just quit. btdt.-- first check your connections and make sure there is a way to find another one for intallation and carry spares of these.
or bypass it and turn off the tank each time ye stop use of tank.

[beneteau-500]

yes the solenoids do fail from time to time but also at the same time i would check the pressure regulator as well

[crewofnoka]

Positive the tanks are full ! In fact, we switched tanks just to check that (we have 2). How would you check the pressure regulator? I guess we could take it to a local gas shop and have them test it... May be worth a check. Thanks.

[zeehag]

easier to bypass solenoid to see if that is problem first....

[Don1500]

Originally Posted by zeehag

easier to bypass solenoid to see if that is problem first....

Best bet. Don't involve money until you know what you're spending it on.

[donradcliffe]

Several people, including me, have reported a waxy substance in the gas lines that blocks the flow of gas. Its usually found in the line closest to the tanks.

[beneteau-500]

zeehag is correct remove the solenoid a correctly fitted system should be gas cylinder then solenoid valve then a tee piece with pressure gauge then regulator take the solenoid out of the system , light cooker the test to see if cooker is working correctly , to check this if you have a 3 ring burner have all 3 on max if not and only have 2 then turn oven on as well and you should not get a pressure drop of no more than 2milbar if so you will have to change reg and if oven is working ok with out solenoid then replace solenoid

[crewofnoka]

Well, after testing it looks like it is the solenoid.
Another question regarding solenoids: we currently have a 1/4" solenoid; does the 1/4" indicated the "relative size" (e.g. flow rate) of the solenoid? Can I replace it with a 3/8" solenoid?? Our lines are 3/8".
Thanks!
Cheers, Bill

[beneteau-500]

no not related to flow but pipe connection sizes

[GordMay]

Yes, the diameter of the solenoid determines the maximum capacity (gas flow-through), and should generally match the distribution hose/pipe size.
Quarter inch is often used for single appliance installations; whereas 3/8" is usually used for high capacity (ie: 3-burner stove c/w oven) or multiple appliance (ie: stove & heater) installations.