Dometic fridge igniter won't push in

[Tel7]

Hi all,

We've recently bought a 2010 Bailey Pegasus 554 caravan which I think has a Dometic RML8550 230v 12v LPG Gas Caravan Fridge. We don't have mains power in the current location, so for the first time, I'm trying to run the fridge on gas, but when I try to press the igniter button (grey button to left of gauge) it doesn't move. I followed the instructions in the manual, which was to hold the temperature control in first. I think the button has a small battery inside it, and I know how to remove it, but doing so also requires the igniter to be pushed in which isn't happening.

Has anyone else seen or heard of such a problem?
Any ideas what causes it and how to fix it or a more appropriate place to get advice?

Here's a still photo of the fridge and here's a video showing the problem. and here are the manuals. (Note: I didn't bother holding the temperature control dial in for the video, but I have the same problem when I do.)

Thanks.
Terry
P.S. I also posted this on a different website forum here but no one there seems to have seen this so they are just guessing at causes and solutions, so I decided to try on this forum.

 

[otherclive]

I’m sorry but I can’t give advice on your particular problem, but even though I tended to use sites with EHU I always tested gas appliances before each trip out as you never know when site electrics might be down. Hope you get it resolved soon.

 

[ProfJohnL]

Hello Terry,
Welcome to the forum

First of all thank you for giving us a good spread of information about the appliance, Its very refreshing and allows us to be more focused with our replies and advice.

I have checked up on the instruction manual for your fridge. Specifically the model number you give RML 8550 tells me its a manual piezo ignition system.

The piezo is the push button which does have a moderately strong spring which when you press it, it should move and at the bottom of the stroke you should hear (and feel) a loudish click which if everything is working correctly will produce on spark.

Normally with these devices you need to press the button several times in quick succession whilst the gas control valve (left of the piezo button) is also held pushed in to by pass the the flame failure device.

The galvo meter to the right will swing across when a flame has been established and you can then release the gas control valve and set it to your desired setting position.

if as you describe the Piezo button will not push in, it suggests it has either seized or been damaged, and the piezo unit may need to be repaired or replaced.