Troubleshooting Chinese diesel heater and error code chart.
Chinese diesel portable heating systems, often referred to as “Chinasto” or “Chinese Webasto,” provide an economical heating solution for camper vans, trucks, or boats. However, like any technology, they can encounter issues that require troubleshooting. Here’s a comprehensive guide on problem-solving steps and common error codes.
Troubleshooting Steps
- Fuel Supply Check:
- Ensure the diesel tank is not empty. Lack of fuel is a primary cause of malfunction.
- Check for air bubbles in the fuel lines which could block fuel supply.
- Electricity Verification:
- Verify that the power supply voltage is within the acceptable range, typically between 11.5V and 14V to prevent errors due to over or under-voltage.
- Fuel Pump Priming:
- If the heater doesn’t start, you might need to prime the fuel pump by pressing the appropriate keys to circulate diesel through the system.
- Connection Inspection:
- Make sure all electrical connections and cables are neither loose nor corroded, especially those connected to the glow plug and fan.
- Cleaning and Maintenance:
- If the heater is producing white or black smoke, this might indicate incomplete combustion due to soot buildup. Clean the system, including the exhaust pipe and combustion chamber.
- Settings Adjustment:
- For recurring issues, check settings like fan speed or pump pressure, which might require adjustment.
- Consulting Documentation:
- Always refer to the user manual for specific information on error codes and recommended solutions, though documentation with Chinese models might be limited.
Error Code Chart
Here is a list of common error codes with their potential meanings:
- E-02: Power supply voltage too high (>14V).
- E-03: Issue with ignition or glow plug (open circuit or short circuit).
- E-04: Problem with the fuel pump (open or short circuit).
- E-05: Faulty casing temperature sensor/overheat (open or short-circuited).
- E-06: Fan blocked or its sensor defective.
- E-07: Connection issue between the LCD screen and the heater body.
- E-08 : Flame out, either flame went out, or ignition is failing.
- E-10: Ignition failure, often related to line blockages or air in the system.
These error codes should be addressed according to the specific cause, often after checking the elements mentioned in the problem-solving steps.
Chinese diesel heaters, while very affordable, require some knowledge for effective maintenance and quick issue resolution. By following these steps and understanding the error codes, you can extend the life of your heater and ensure optimal thermal comfort in your vehicle or converted space.
Remember, each model might have its peculiarities, so it’s always wise to consult the user manual for tailored advice.
Common Problems
White smoke and error code E-08 or E-10
One of the most common problems experienced by users is getting white smoke and the code “E-08” which sometimes is also accompanied by the code “E-10”. The reasons are diverse but the explanation is always the same and the resolution rather simple.
Possible Causes
Lack of air, air inlet obstructed or bent which causes too much restriction. If the burner runs out of “oxidizer” or oxygen, the flame goes out but the pump continues to supply the burner with fuel. A certain delay is necessary for the controller to detect the drop in temperature and initiate the shutdown procedure. During this time, the burner fills with Diesel. Sometimes, it can even overflow through the air intake.
Explanation
The “glow plug” is “flooded”, therefore it cannot reach the heat required to reach the auto-ignition temperature of the Diesel. It only gently heats the Diesel, hence the white, thick and heavy vapor.
Resolution
Use a compressor or air mattress pump to try to expel the excess Diesel by blowing large sharp bursts of air through the burner air intake. I used an inverted air mattress pump adapter and a piece of garden hose to connect to my fixed unit.
Also, try lighting it two or three times, but do not give the pump time to activate. This way, the spark plug will activate a few times without any new Diesel coming in and should succeed in cleaning itself.
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