Re: [A/S] Brrr, It's cold in here.

["Mr. Joy H. Hansen" <joytbrew@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Kym,

I'm just jumping into this thread and I'm also quite new to the A/S
restoration scene.  I bought the service manual for 1973 models that might
also cover my '69 Safari.

The symptoms I think you described were 1. The pilot light goes out during
the "off phase" of the furnace, and 2. The pilot won't stay lit during the
"start-up or ignition phase.  At least I think this is what I recall.

I'll describe the service manual approach to each problem.

1.  The most common cause is a defective thermocouple or safety pilot valve.
The manual says that there's a simple check.  Quote: "Remove the lighter
hole cap and extinguish the flame after the pilot  has been lit for
approximately 5 minutes.  Use a watch to thick the time that elapses between
extinguishing the pilot and the snap of the safety valve.  If the time is
less than 30 seconds, it indicates a weak thermocouple of safety valve.
Replace the thermocouple first and repeat the test for the safety pilot
valve.  If the time lapse is still less than 30 seconds, replace the safety
pilot valve."

Another cause could be air leakage, but this is too long and too many
possibilities to discuss.

2.  In addition to the thermocouple, there's a microswitch that allows gas
to reach the main burner by .  .  .  This takes 3 to 5 seconds.  If the
microswitch opens the gas valve too soon, the main burner flame can float
and extinguish the pilot - heat off!  Another cause of extinguishing the
pilot is too little primary air - like an obstruction in the intake?

Replacement of the thermocouple or microswitch involves pulling the outside
intake/exhaust to gain access to the chamber.  The gas and electric must be
disconnected and with the manual in one hand and tools in the other and
somehow getting your hear, arms, hands, etc. under the sink cabinet, you can
remove the chamber that has the thermocouple.  You'll find parts on the
ground outside and completely covering your lap inside.  Whew .  .  .

Unless you are really very handy and understand all this stuff, the repair
is best left to a qualified A/S person!

Sure hope you have your plumbing winterized!  Replacing freeze damaged pipes
will make the furnace repair seem like child's play.

Much of this dialog is quoted from the service manual.  Some is tongue in
cheek.

                                             Regards,  Joy