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Propex compact 1600 problem

Posted: 12 Mar 2012, 18:09
by maxstu
After a series of positive tests and adjustments to the thermostat dial/control unit by the very helpful guys at Propex in Southampton (especially Richard) I now intend to send the whole system to them, to solve an issue which has plagued my heater since buying my camper in 2007 :shock: .

The heater refuses to cycle when temperature drops. Intially the only way to get more heat was to switch off and restart. The tested thermostat is fine and set at minimum degree change. Also leisure battery is good and strong plus the control unit/dial is getting a strong 12.8v when firing up.

On return of the checked thermostat /dial control unit I refitted it correctly (took a photo before disconnecting wires) checked gas is good and and replaced fuse. Then tried starting exactly in accordance of instructions. Now the black box beside the red heater box is showing not enough voltage to fire up and Im getting nothing whatsoever. Cold air side works fine. Rotating dial brings on correct lighting and clicks as it passes thermostat settings.

So I ripped the the whole lot out with intention of sending to Propex tomorrow. However, I noticed the isolated and disconnected gas pipe is dripping an oily fluid? To the touch its very much like baby oil but strongly smelling of gas. Is the normal?

Regards
Stuart

Re: Propex compact 1600 problem

Posted: 12 Mar 2012, 19:52
by Oldiebut goodie
Sounds like you have the same kind of blockage as was being noticed upon fitment of the new style regulators. These were getting blocked due to this oily residue collecting in the regulator as they were mounted in the lowest part of a downward loop. It may be worthwhile flushing out the pipe work with wd40.

Re: Propex compact 1600 problem

Posted: 12 Mar 2012, 20:42
by maxstu
Hi Oldie,

Thanks for the comments. I do recall a similar issue raised on here before, yet cant find it in archives?

Will disconnect all pipes and give a good blasting with air and WD40. I guess they've not been cleaned in 20 years; the heater was fitted in '91.

Cheers
Stuart