Electric troubleshooting

[Boont Boater]

I had an interesting challenge which I finally resolved. Our Wallas heater/stove-top stopped working. It didn't take too long before I realized that I had lost power to it. I have not spent much time fooling with the electric system but I thought that I knew which line went to the Wallas. When I pulled that fuse and checked for continuity it seemed fine. After that started a prolonged investigation into Tranquilo's wiring.

The circuits behind the steering wheel were relatively straight forward and seemed OK but I found at least a half dozen lines hooked directly into the batteries (both house and starter), two of which had blown fuses and compromised fuse holders. In my awkward, cramped way I replaced both of those holders and fuses, each time I was sure that the power would be back - nah not happening. Other fuses were found and checked. I'm sure it's been discussed but there must be a better way of adding circuits. I could never figure out what the bad fuse circuits were actually for!?

After more time then I would like to admit I thought of my underground voltage detector I use for work. Returning with that I tied into the wires that feed the stove. A few minutes later there I was back at the first fuse (7.5 amps) I checked. This time when I pulled it out I could see the elements separate and of course no continuity. The moral - these little fuses can show continuity even when they are blown. Maybe it depended on how it was held. Certainly the element appeared to be in one piece the first time I checked it.

The stove still needed to be reset. That was done by leaving the control switches on and unplugging the power then plugging it back in to the back of the unit. This seems easier then disconnecting at the battery - my previous way of dealing with the Wallas. All good fun and part of Jeff's learning curve.