Recent Posts

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Technical Support / Re: Starting issue

« Last post by Fred Brooks on December 09, 2024, 09:58:19 PM »

     Brian,
  I agree with Frank. The 2 weakest links in the ignition circuit are the ignition solenoid and the ignition switch. Often times they get changed with off quality replacement products. The solenoid should be a Cole-Hersey continuous duty, and the ignition switch should be a Delco-Remy. The other issue to be cautious about is the "rear run switch. There was a time as I recall about 8 years when owners were using it an anti-theft device. The issue is the switch is back in a location where corrosion can develop inside of the switch. Activating the switch that was dormant for a long time can create a new situation. Now you have a compound problem. If you are comfortable using a test light, you can trace the 12volt power from the switch to the solenoid to the rear run switch to the trigger solenoid to the starter. Fred

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Technical Support / Re: Starting issue

« Last post by Frank Bergamo on December 09, 2024, 06:24:58 PM »

An intermittent ignition solenoid can cause the problem you are describing. Joel’s post above shows the location of the solenoid. It is a common failure point with these coaches. It is a Cole Hersee 85 amp continuous duty solenoid that can be found at Napa or any truck or auto parts store. Amazon is also another source if you can wait a few days. I used to carry a spare because of the failure rate of this solenoid, so by changing it now, you can eliminate it as a possibility of your problem. Hope this helps, good luck.

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Technical Support / Re: Starting issue

« Last post by BrianMiller on December 09, 2024, 04:49:43 PM »

Just to keep everyone in the loop.  All dash lights as well as the “N” neutral transmission light works as advertised.  I recently replace the GM ignition switch replace the tumbler in the old one was shot. However, the Accessory position doesn’t work? (Don’t understand)….nor did the old old one but that’s on the back burner at this point.
I need to dig into the rear start switch as well as hidden solenoid.

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Technical Support / Re: Starting issue

« Last post by Fred Brooks on December 09, 2024, 03:23:24 PM »

   Brian,
  Here is a picture of the hidden "starter solenoid" which is behind the battery box out of normal view. It is really a "trigger solenoid that activates the true starter solenoid mounted on the starter itself. Fred

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General Discussion / Re: 2004 Cummins ISL 400

« Last post by Eric Maclean Co-Admin on December 09, 2024, 02:44:16 AM »

Don
Did you ever get this issue resolved?

Eric

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Technical Support / Re: Starting issue

« Last post by Eric Maclean Co-Admin on December 09, 2024, 02:18:06 AM »

Brian
The start signal from the ignition switch runs to the service bay where it is switched for front or rear start control that switch is known to have connection problems as it is exposed to road dirt and water at the rear of the service bay wall.
Or you wouldn't be the first one to leave that switch in the rear position causing a no crank condition at the key switch.
The start signal starts at the ignition switch ( these are older Chevrolet truck ignitions) and are known to develop intermittent problems at both the switch and the plug it plugs into .
It then goes to the Allison automatic transmission VIM box where it is controlled by a relay for neutral safety before it goes on to the rear of the coach
( it is to be noted that there are two 10 amp fuses inside the VIM module) without an N on the shift pad the neutral safety relay won't allow signal out to starter.
From the VIM module the start signal goes through a bulkhead connector ( large round connector ) located in or behind the front electrical bay cabinet below the drivers station ( that bay will collect water causing corrosion if there are any leaks in the front cap windshield area. ) check that connection as well for green connectors
From there the start signal travels to the rear service bay as explained above to the front rear selector switch ( known to go bad )
From the front rear selector switch it then goes to the primary solenoid mounted in the rear of the battery bay which controls the large solenoid on the starter.


The closest we can come to the right wiring diagram for a 2000 ( starter wiring ) Patriot is the 1996 Patriot wiring diagram  page 18 will show you the wiring diagram for the start signal.

Hope this helps
Eric

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Technical Support / Re: Starting issue

« Last post by Joel Ashley on December 09, 2024, 01:32:04 AM »

I’m not familiar with your particular era of rig, but on at least some models like mine there is a “Ford” solenoid in the “electric” bay, streetside foremost and beneath the driver, that commonly carbons up resulting in immobilizing resistance.  It routes 12v via circuit breakers to basic chassis devices like you’d find on any highway vehicle.  If you have a 2000 Patriot legend for that bay or can find one in BAC’s Coach Assist, you could test all related circuits with the ignition key on and off.  Though less common, keyed ignitions can overheat or otherwise fail as well.

Joel

Example legend:

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Technical Support / Re: Starting issue

« Last post by David T. Richelderfer on December 09, 2024, 01:19:07 AM »

My only guess is from my experience.  If the transmission keypad is not reporting neutral with an "N" on the keypad, then the engine will not be allowed to start.  The transmission MUST report a neutral status to the engine brain before the starter will engage.  In my case, the problem was a blown fuse in the black clamshell box found just under the keypad.  There are two fuses in that box.

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Technical Support / Starting issue

« Last post by BrianMiller on December 08, 2024, 11:57:38 PM »

Gentleman,  I’m trying to track down a start issue. Replaced starter a few months ago an we seemed to be good to go. Tried to head out on the
road and we got a no start situation again.
Pulled the solenoid in the battery bay checked continuity…. checked ok.
Pulled starter to bench test solenoid /starter. All checked ok. 
I can jump starter….
Any thoughts or ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Brian
2000 Beaver Patriot

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Technical Support / Re: Cat C-12 serpentine belt tension indicator

« Last post by Gene Obie on December 08, 2024, 06:43:05 PM »

Thanks. One more thing to check.