Faulty solenoid

[dhays]

Well, our weekend was cut short by a faulty LPG solenoid.

We were able to cook our dinner last night, but just as I was finishing boiling water for some after dinner coffee, the gas burner just died. Plenty of pressure in the tank. Power to the solenoid, but no gas.

I can't think of any other reason for the gas supply to suddenly and completely quit.

Here is the solenoid in question.



I'll need to replace it. Any suggestions on one to use and where to source it?

Dave
(So much for a relaxing weekend on the boat)

[fryewe]

A one burner backup alcohol stove would have salvaged the weekend.

Sorry, I can't help with the solenoid. I believe in alcohol in all its forms, including for stoves.

Good luck.

[Swb47]

I would check out the local propane company, Or find out a plumbing supply house that distributes ASCO. You can also check out Grainger or Mcmaster Carr if you have access to them.

[ebs001]

Westmarine, Defender or your local chandery. Most propane dealers if they have them would have 120V-AC selenoids you need a 12V-DC one. As a temporary solution only you could have bipassed the selenoid. BUT this is a temporary solution only for someone without easy access to a new one and you have to be the manual selenoid turning on and off the tank by hand.

[speciald]

Solenoids do go bad at the worst time. I always carry a spare when I'm cruising.

[ebs001]

Originally Posted by speciald

Solenoids do go bad at the worst time. I always carry a spare when I'm cruising.

Yes, like first thing in the morning when you need a coffee.

Good advice

[dhays]

Originally Posted by Swb47

I would check out the local propane company, Or find out a plumbing supply house that distributes ASCO. You can also check out Grainger or Mcmaster Carr if you have access to them.

Great suggestions. However, I think I'm going to try and find one today. Most of those won't be open on a Sunday.

Originally Posted by ebs001

Westmarine, Defender or your local chandery. Most propane dealers if they have them would have 120V-AC selenoids you need a 12V-DC one. As a temporary solution only you could have bipassed the selenoid. BUT this is a temporary solution only for someone without easy access to a new one and you have to be the manual selenoid turning on and off the tank by hand.

Yeah, I considered bypassing the solenoid but I didn't have any of the necessary plumbing connections. The solenoid has two female connections. WM does carry them, but my local WM Express doesn't. I'll check to see if the larger WM 20 miles away has them. They are open on Sunday and the traffic isn't as bad on the weekend.

Originally Posted by speciald

Solenoids do go bad at the worst time. I always carry a spare when I'm cruising.

I've never had one go bad on me before so it was a surprise. A spare might not be a bad idea. I was surprised at the cost however. I think it is about $70 at WM.

Originally Posted by ebs001

Yes, like first thing in the morning when you need a coffee.

My wife complained the next morning that I was really cranky without my coffee.

Thanks for all the great suggestions. I'll let you know how it goes.

Dave

[PorFin]

Originally Posted by ebs001

Westmarine, Defender or your local chandery. Most propane dealers if they have them would have 120V-AC selenoids you need a 12V-DC one. As a temporary solution only you could have bipassed the selenoid. BUT this is a temporary solution only for someone without easy access to a new one and you have to be the manual selenoid turning on and off the tank by hand.

I'd also call any local RV supply stores (if there are any.) Quite possible you could find an identical solenoid without paying the "marine" label surcharge.

[svHyLyte]

David--

You don't have a grill on your boat? If you have a Magma, you can add a burner plate that allows the grill to be used as a single burner stove top:



Other grill manufacturers have similar arrangements.

And adding a gimbaled one-burner cooker can be a real attribute in bad weather. See Forespar Hot Spot Propane Mini Galley with Coffee Pot

FWIW...

[BELLATRIX1965]

Look at the photo you posted - the nameplate lists: "Rebuild Kit No. 316538". I agree with the previous posters that suggested W.W. Grainger or McMaster-Carr. You should be able to determine if the coil itself is bad (also easily sourced as a spare part) or the valve needs a rebuild. Not rocket science, and way cheaper than the $70 you quoted from Worst Marine.

Look up "Industrial Supply" in your local area - ASCO Red Hat valves are in use almost everywhere in industry - there is NO need to purchase from a marine supplier! Good luck!