Eberspacher (Sorry!) Troubleshooting D3L

[SimonP85]

We have a D3L fitted on board that for some time has been reluctant to start. After switching on the fan runs for perhaps 1 minute and then shuts down. Turning it off then immediately back on the above repeats 2-3 times before it eventually springs to life.

The battery is only a few months old and wiring good.

Is it worth renewing the glow plug and/or strainer or should I be looking elsewhere. I've not done any maintenance on the unit since we got the boat 6 years ago and no idea the history before then.

As always any advice much appreciated.

 

[dom]

As a first port of call I'd measure the voltage at the heater during the startup sequence when most power is drawn. If too small gauge a wire is running a distance this can create a detrimental voltage drop. Also try the same test with the engine running.

 

[snowbird30ds]

Sounds like it may be getting air in the fuel line needing to be re-primed each time, what controller do you have as some will give diagnostic codes, have a peek at http://www.letonkinoisvarnish.co.uk/ as they have loads of good eberspacher info.

 

[SimonP85]

Sounds like it may be getting air in the fuel line needing to be re-primed each time, what controller do you have as some will give diagnostic codes, have a peek at http://www.letonkinoisvarnish.co.uk/ as they have loads of good eberspacher info.

That's an interesting idea, we found a small puddle of diesel in the bilge and this was after we'd run the Eberspacher so maybe there's a leak between the fuel pump and main unit... Will investigate further!

 

[snowbird30ds]

If your controller can read the codes the main unit should store the last 5 error codes until cleared, once again this can be done from the right type of control, the website mentioned will tell you which ones can (I know the 801 can as it's what I have), that website saved me a load of problems and cash.

 

[Windy Miller]

I had the same problem with my D3L which gave me the error code that the flame sensor had a problem. Eventually talked to Diesco and arranged to have the unit serviced. The engineer said that there was nothing wrong with the unit just needed decarboning and seals replaced. His comment was that the unit had not been serviced for sometime (we have only had the boat for 18 months and I had no previous history of service).
I believe you can get a service pack, but in the end decided to have it done professionally cost me £150 plus Vat but this included all the parts (done last week).
So it may well pay to do a service on the unit and get it de carboned.

The engineer was able to remove the unit and take it away to bench top service.

 

[SimonP85]

We have one of the old style thermostat controllers like this (but without the on/off switch) and a universal switch with Off/Vent/Heat modes.

 

[LittleSister]

We have one of the old style thermostat controllers like this .

You think that's 'old' style? You should see ours!

 

[Concerto]

You may find this web site useful.
http://www.letonkinoisvarnish.uk/Eberspacher_Faults_2.html

You can also email for more detailed answers, all for free. They have a personal interest in Eberspacher heaters and were trained by Ebersparcher UK.