Community Forums

Retired and Happy · 08-10-2008, 06:32 AM

I am having intermittent problems with starting my motorhome. Sometimes when I turn the switch on, it starts immediately. Sometimes it doesn't and requires several twists (3-20) of the key before it fires. I don't see the dash voltmeter going down as I would expect if the starter is binding. It just doesn't do anything. I have tried moving the shift lever, but have have not noticed any improvement. So far it has eventually started, but someday it might not.

My first thought is to put a voltmeter on the starter and see what happens when I turn the key...this will require really long arms or an assistant.

Any ideas on how to check the ignition switch itself? Anything else to check?

Retired and Happy · 08-10-2008, 06:32 AM

I am having intermittent problems with starting my motorhome. Sometimes when I turn the switch on, it starts immediately. Sometimes it doesn't and requires several twists (3-20) of the key before it fires. I don't see the dash voltmeter going down as I would expect if the starter is binding. It just doesn't do anything. I have tried moving the shift lever, but have have not noticed any improvement. So far it has eventually started, but someday it might not.

My first thought is to put a voltmeter on the starter and see what happens when I turn the key...this will require really long arms or an assistant.

Any ideas on how to check the ignition switch itself? Anything else to check?

RV Wizard · 08-11-2008, 01:04 AM

Ken, I would start with the battery cables for both the positive and negative connections. THen moce to the connections on the ground to motor and frame and the positive to the starter terminals. Check all the terminals on the starter to be sure all are clean and tight. IF you still have issues then start at the ignition switch and do the same with the connections there. You can use a volt meter to check power out of the switch powering up the fuse block. Good luck and keep us posted.

Onaqwest · 08-11-2008, 03:50 AM

Ken, What chassis is your MH on. I had that same problem with a '97 Bounder on the Ford chassis. I can give you some pointers if they are similar.

Retired and Happy · 08-11-2008, 12:11 PM

The same. Mine is a Ford 96 or late 95 chassis.

J Walker · 08-16-2008, 04:28 AM

In addition to Mike's suggestions, I would look for a separate starter solenoid or relay and check its connections. A recent case like yours turned out to be the solenoid contacts.