Full Electrics but Dead Control Panel

[Gerard Saunders]

Hello, new here. Just bought a 2003 Knaus Sun Traveller.

All electrics work, on mains or 12 volt, but panel above door does not indicate fluid levels, main 12 volt switch does not make any difference to what works, in fact the only part of the panel that shows any life are the two battery symbols, which light up when I plug into the mains.

Any comments would be welcome before I visit a dealer! I have tried changing all the fuses, including the one by the leisure battery. I have powered down for a while in an attempt to reset the electronics, all to no avail. As I say, everything works irrespective of the switch positions on the panel.

Many thanks.

 

[Techno]

What make and model of electrics are fitted?

 

[Bill_OR]

Gerard - no real clue but I assume that the panel has an on/off switch and you've turned the panel on? I don't live too far away if you need a 2nd opinion but it my be worth calling in to Johns Cross (@Johns_Cross_Motorhomes ) up the road (ask for Glen, the service manager) as they are very helpful.

 

[Gerard Saunders]

Thank you Bill. It makes no difference turning the panel on or off. All 12v items work either way.

 

[Gerard Saunders]

What make and model of electrics are fitted?

I think it's made by Trumatic.

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[Abacist]

Maybe a previous owner has carried out some modifications!

 

[Gerard Saunders]

I did wonder whether someone might have bypassed the thing altogether.

 

[Techno]

I doubt it is Trumatic, they focus on heating controls. There should be a 12 volt distribution box somewhere with a name or model on it.

 

[DavidG58]

If you have only just bought it, was it private, if so ring them and ask, if a dealer take it back to be fixed

unless that is someone on here points out something obvious that has been overlooked, most of us have been there and done that

 

[Gerard Saunders]

I doubt it is Trumatic, they focus on heating controls. There should be a 12 volt distribution box somewhere with a name or model on it.

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[Gerard Saunders]

Unfortunately I bought it in Totnes. I'm in Sussex.

 

[Bill_OR]

Gerard - still worth a phone call though before you start.
Note that tank level sensors can be flakey on many motorhomes so may have been disconnected.

 

[Gerard Saunders]

Thanks Bill. Johns Cross need four weeks so I will see what this chat throws up.

 

[Techno]

Can you see where that ribbon cable goes on the left?

 

[Techno]

The fuse box has four of the circuits starred ** and indicated that they are switch from BC presumably that is the overdoor panel. What does it say on the other fuses? it is blurred

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[Gerard Saunders]

The ribbon cable goes to the control panel. Nothing looks out of order there.

 

[Gerard Saunders]

I've changed all those dudes for new ones.

 

[Gerard Saunders]

Fuses!

 

[Techno]

Have you looked at the back of the overdoor panel to see if any wires have come off? The level gauge wires must go to there.

 

[Gerard Saunders]

I just have. Everything seems to be good and tight, unfortunately!

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[Techno]

If the on/off switch on the panel does not work it is likely that a relay in that black box has failed and then been bypassed, that would explain the addition of the main isolation switch on the right

 

[Techno]

Diagram here

 

[dave newell]

The electrics are Caliri or Calira (can't quite remember which) and the battery cutoff switch is a standard Knaus fitment.

D.

 

[Gerard Saunders]

If the on/off switch on the panel does not work it is likely that a relay in that black box has failed and then been bypassed, that would explain the addition of the main isolation switch on the right

It seems strange. The camper only had one owner and has done only 13,000 miles in as many years. There are no signs of DIY repairs or cable connections.

 

[Techno]

Can only be a relay failure and must be stuck closed circuit hence the off switch having no effect,
As Dave has clarified the main switch is standard equipment.

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[eddie]

Did you see it working before you bought it?

 

[Gerard Saunders]

But I'm not sure that would explain the gauges not working, neither battery state or water levels.

 

[Gerard Saunders]

Did you see it working before you bought it?

I thought I did!

 

[Techno]

Time to start saving up

 

[Bill_OR]

@Gerard Saunders - another local service company I can recommend is Caravan Tech in Hurst Green (on the left as you are go north) 01580 860260. Also, not used them myself, but a friend has recommended Richard Hearsey a local mobile engineer (www.completecaravancare.com 01424 840110).
Bill

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