Gas water heater

[ejmilton]

I have a 2014 Montana 3402RL, can’t get the pilot to light. I can hear it clicking and have a full propane tank. The electric switch outside is in the on position, does the electric switch inside need to be on or is that only for running on electric.Also the red LED lights between the 2 switches lights up when the gas button is pushed. What does DSI and FLT mean. Thanks in advance,
Eddie Milton

[jeffba]

Electric switch on WH is to turn on electric WH

Proper operation of gas
Propane tank turned on.
Light Stove-- ensures you have gas and purges air out of line
Turn on WH at control panel
Red DSI light will come one
Listen for Igniter to spark--should try 3 times before it gives up
If it lights DSI LED turns off-- if it stays on it did not work
lather rinse repeat a few times in case there is air in the line
If it all works in about 30 minutes you can take that much needed shower

[ejmilton]

Originally Posted by ejmilton

I have a 2014 Montana 3402RL, can’t get the pilot to light. I can hear it clicking and have a full propane tank. The electric switch outside is in the on position, does the electric switch inside need to be on or is that only for running on electric.Also the red LED lights between the 2 switches lights up when the gas button is pushed. What does DSI and FLT mean. Thanks in advance,
Eddie Milton

. Thanks for your reply, maybe not giving it enough time.

[DQDick]

You may also have to clean out the propane jet in the unit. Bugs like propane and can nest in there and stop the flow of the propane.

[Carl n Susan]

As suggested, ensure the burner area is clear of bugs and debris. Assuming it is, the problem is most likely a failed solenoid coil (usually the one closest to the water heater). Stand outside the WH with the cover removed when someone else turns on the WH propane switch. If you hear the ignitor click 3 times and then stop, then it is very likely the gas valve is not allowing propane to flow due to a bad solenoid.

A Search using keywords "water heater solenoid" will expose lots of previous discussions on diagnosing and replacement of the coil. A good post to start with is this ONE. Here is another POST. Follow the other links pointed to to further understand the problem.

You can replace the entire gas valve and solenoids for around $100+. Your valve is likely still functional along with one of the coils (assuming you followed the directions of testing the resistance). But the new gas valve assembly will solve the issue (and leave you with a spare valve and solenoid)

Another solution referenced was buying a replacement coil kit. They used to be available from www.americanrv parts.com at around $15.. Unfortunately it appears Lippert bought them out and no longer offer the kit. A quick Google found a possible source *HERE* They have a couple of different part numbers, this is a 521074. so check which ones match your gas valve. As I recall the coils are all pretty much the same but caveat emptor.