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How To Fix The “Burner Ignites But Flame Will Not Hold” Problem
on the Norcold 3163 Refrigerator
in the VW Eurovan
Background
Many people have posted on Eurovan blogs, the problem of placing the Norcold 3163 into propane mode,
pushing the start button for an eternity, and the flame doesn’t stay lit. This can result from several problems,
which will be made clear below.
Safety Information and Caveats Before Starting
Any changes made to your unit should only be attempted if the warranty has expired. By now, that should be
moot, since most original warranties have probably expired.
If you are not electrically inclined, or cannot easily follow these directions, then it is recommended you find
a qualified assistant, or, do NOT perform the changes stated below. Because this involves propane gas and
electrical circuits that can lead to a dangerous situation, it is recommended you proceed with caution.
No liability can be assumed for the use of these instructions
.
To continue with these instructions, first download a copy of the ‘Norcold 3163 Service Manual’ found at:
member.) References from this service manual are used in this document.
It is recommended you print out and read through these instructions in their entirety, to familiarize yourself
with the work that will be accomplished.
Verifying the Symptom
1.
Turn on the propane valve at the external tank – fully counterclockwise. (BTW, the tank valve seats
at both ends; fully closed and fully open. Always turn it either fully open or fully closed, firmly
seating it at either end.)
2.
From the ‘User’s Operating Guide’ (found at the link above), we first put the unit in ‘propane mode’.
This is done by pressing the ‘E’ button shown below, the one with the flame graphic.