Norcold N500 User manual

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NOT FOR PUBLIC RELEASE
DO NOT install this refrigerator in below deck marine applications. Do not
install this refrigerator in fixed indoor cabin or other dwelling applications. This
refrigerator must use only NORCOLD designed and approved outside air in-
take and exhaust ventilation for correct and safe operation.Any other ventila-
tion could cause lethal combustion exhaust fumes and or/explosive propane
gas fumes to be in the living area and/or below deck.
Service Manual
Publication No. 626800A (06-08-04)
©2004THETFORD/NORCOLD.Allrightsreserved.
!
WARNING
Gas/Electric Refrigerators
N510
N500
MODELS

DRAFT
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i
N500/N510 Models
Refrigerator Service Manual www.norcold.com/cda
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction ------------------------------------------------------ 1
About this Manual................................................................. 1
Model Identification .............................................................. 1
Information Label ................................................................. 1
Cooling Unit Serial Number ................................................ 1
Certification and Code Requirements ................................ 1
About Installation ................................................................. 1
Replacement Parts.............................................................. 1
Technical Assistance ........................................................... 1
Safety Awareness---------------------------------------------- 3
Safety Notice......................................................................... 3
Attention Statements ............................................................ 3
Safety Statements ................................................................ 3
Specifications --------------------------------------------------- 4
N500 Models ........................................................................ 4
N510 Models ........................................................................ 5
Troubleshooting - Quick Reference Guide ------------ 6
N510 Displayed Fault Codes-------------------------------- 7
Troubleshooting Flowcharts - N500 Units -------------- 8
Burner Will Not Maintain Flame - N500 Units..................... 8
No AC Operation - N500 Units ............................................ 9
No DC Operation - N500.3 (3-Way Units Only).................10
No LP Operation - N500 Units .......................................... 11
Thermocouple and Interrupter Malfunctioning..................12
Troubleshooting Flowchart - N510 Units--------------- 13
Blank Display - Refrigerator does not turn on - N510 ......13
Optical Display Does Not Turn On - Power is available...14
F Fault Code - Burner failed to ignite or reignite - N510...15
E Fault Code - DC voltage high - N510 .............................16
C Fault Code - DC voltage low - N510 ..............................16
S Fault Code - Flame sense circuit failure - N510 ...........17
A Fault Code - No ac power available - N510 ...................17
H Fault Code - AC heater failed open - N510 ...................18
r Fault Code - AC relay stuck closed - N510 .....................18
Backup Operating System - N510 Models ........................ 19
Thermistor Failure Fault - Controls in Backup Operating
System Mode - N510 .........................................................19
Power Board Resetting Procedure ................................... 20
N Fault Code - No cooling detected by the controls .........20
Ventilation------------------------------------------------------- 21
Roof Exhaust Venting ......................................................... 21
Air Intake Vent .................................................................. 21
Roof Exhaust Vent............................................................21
Baffles ...............................................................................21
Vertical Angled Baffles ......................................................21
Double Sidewall Venting....................................................22
Air Intake Vent .................................................................. 22
Sidewall Exhaust Vent ......................................................22
Components ......................................................................23
Manual Shutoff Valve ....................................................... 23
Orifice................................................................................23
LP Gas System - N500 --------------------------------------- 23
Gas Safety Valve ..............................................................24
Gas Safety Valve Replacement.......................................24
LP Gas System - N510 --------------------------------------- 25
Components ......................................................................25
Solenoid Gas Valve .........................................................25
Orifice................................................................................25
LP Gas System - ALL MODELS ---------------------------26
Components Continued - All Models ................................ 26
Burner ...............................................................................26
Flue Tube..........................................................................26
Flue Cap ...........................................................................26
Flue Baffle......................................................................... 26
Handling of LP Gas Lines and Fittings .............................26
LP Gas Pressure ...............................................................27
Testing for Gas Leakage ...................................................27
Method A: .......................................................................... 27
Method B: .......................................................................... 27
Bubble leak test solution/soap and water leak test:....... 27
Pressure drop test: ...........................................................27
Burner Cleaning Procedure............................................... 28
Electrical Requirements and Components ----------- 29
AC Heater ......................................................................... 29
AC Fuse ............................................................................ 29
AC Power............................................................................ 29
AC Power Requirements - All Models .............................29
DC Power ...........................................................................29
DC Power Requirements ................................................. 29
N500 (2-way models)....................................................... 29
N510 (2-way models)....................................................... 29
N500.3/N510.3 (3-way models).......................................29
DC Heater - N500.3/N510.3.............................................29
Relighter - N500/N500.3 .................................................. 29
DC Heater–3-Way Refrigerators Only .............................30
2-Way Model Wiring .........................................................30
3-Way Model Wiring .........................................................30
DC Heater Circuit Fuse .................................................... 30
Replacing AC or DC Heater ............................................... 30
AC Power Cord................................................................... 31
N500 AC Power Cord....................................................... 31
N510 AC Power Cord....................................................... 31
N500 Terminal Block .........................................................31
AC/DC Converter as Power Source - ................................31
N510 Only ...........................................................................31
Cooling Unit----------------------------------------------------- 32
Description .........................................................................32
Heat Absorption ...............................................................32
Leveled Operation............................................................32
Gradual Decrease in Cooling Efficiency ...........................32
Cooling Monitoring - N510 Units Only............................... 32
Second "n" Fault Code .....................................................33
Cooling Monitoring Control Operation.............................33
First "n" Fault Code...........................................................33
Refrigerant Leakage - All Models ......................................33
Disposal of Cooling Unit - All Models................................33
Cooling System Diagnostic Flowchart ..............................34
Removing the Refrigerator from the Enclosure ..............36
Replacing the Cooling Unit................................................36
Removal of Cooling Unit.................................................. 37
Installation of Replacement Cooling Unit. ...................... 39
Installation of Refrigerator into Enclosure.......................40
Electronic Components - All Models-------------------- 41
Spark/sense Electrode - All Models...................................41
Replacing Spark/sense Electrode................................... 41
Electronic Components - N500 Models-----------------42
Relighter - N500 Models.................................................... 43
Replacing Relighter ......................................................... 43
Flame Indicator - N500 Models .........................................43
Flame Indicator Replacement .........................................43
Electronic Components - N510 Models-----------------43
Power Board - N510 Models .............................................43
Removal–Power Board.................................................... 43
Installation–Power Board.................................................43
Controls-----------------------------------------------------------44
N500 Controls ....................................................................44
Replacing Selector Switch - N500 ...................................45
N510 Controls ....................................................................46

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ii Refrigerator Service Manual www.norcold.com/cda N500/N510 Models
Replacing Optical Control Circuit Board - N510 ............. 47
AUTO Mode - All N510 Units............................................48
AUTO Mode – N510.3 (3-way units) ................................48
AUTO AC Operation ......................................................... 48
AUTO LP Gas Operation ..................................................48
N510 Modes of Operation..................................................48
Troubleshooting a "F" and "A" Faults............................... 48
Shift from AUTO LP Gas to AUTO AC - 2-ways ............... 48
No AC Power and No Flame............................................48
AUTO DC Operation – 3-Way Units Only ........................49
AC Manual Mode ..............................................................49
No AC Power or Loss of AC Power.................................. 49
Troubleshooting an "A" Fault ...........................................49
AC Power Restored.......................................................... 49
LP Gas Manual Mode .......................................................50
Flame Fails to Ignite or Flame Goes Out ........................50
Clearing "Gas Lock-Out" ..................................................50
Troubleshooting an "F" Fault ...........................................50
DC Manual Mode: 3-Way Units Only ...............................50
Troubleshooting a DC Fault .............................................50
N510 Diagnostic Mode --------------------------------------- 51
Diagnostic Mode ................................................................51
Accessing the Diagnostic Mode........................................ 51
Changing Screens............................................................51
Exiting the Diagnostic Mode.............................................51
Screens and Diagnostic Segments Information.............52
Wiring Pictorials and Diagrams-------------------------- 54

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www.norcold.com/cda N500/N510 ModelsRefrigerator Service Manual
About this Manual
This service manual provides maintenance, diagnostic,
and repair information for NORCOLD®model N500/N510
gas absorption refrigerators. It is a reference tool
designed for technicians who are knowledgeable in the
theory and operation of gas/electric absorption
refrigerators, liquefied petroleum (LP) gas–propane–
systems, and ac/dc electrical systems as installed in a
variety of recreational vehicles (RV).
All information, illustrations, and specifications contained
in this publication are based on the latest product
information available at the time of publication.
NORCOLD®reserves the right to make changes at any
time without notice.
Model Identification
Models N500 and N510 are 2-way refrigerators that can
operate on ac power or LP gas. The electronic controls
operate on 12 Vdc.
Models N500.3 and N510.3 are 3-way refrigerators that
can operate on ac power, LP gas, or dc power. The
electronic controls operate on 12 Vdc.
Information Label
The information label is located in the upper right corner
of the fresh food compartment just below the freezer
compartment. See Figure 1, page 2. The label provides
the following information:
TSerial number.
TModel number.
TLP gas (propane) pressure.
TBtu/hr.
TAC voltage and amperage.
TDC voltage and amperage.
TDesign certification.
TVent kit requirement.
Cooling Unit Serial Number
The cooling unit has a separate serial number that
appears on the cooling unit bar code label. The label is
affixed to the surface of the cooling unit leveling
chamber. See Figure 2, page 2.
INTRODUCTION
Certification and Code Requirements
NORCOLD®N500/N510 gas/electric absorption
refrigerators are certified under the latest edition of ANSI
Z21.19B standards for installation in mobile homes or
recreational vehicles. NORCOLD®N500/N510 gas/
electric absorption refrigerators are also certified with
the Canadian StandardsAssociation, CAN/CGA-1.4-
M94.
Electrical components are compliant.
About Installation
Refrigerator installation must conform with the N500/
N510 Installation Manual (part number 622265) for the
NORCOLD®limited warranty to be in effect. Installation
must also comply with applicable local codes and
standards set by the cognizant certification agency.
Replacement Parts
Use only authorized NORCOLD®replacement parts.
Generic parts do not meet NORCOLD®specifications for
safety, reliability, and performance. The use of
unauthorized aftermarket or generic replacement parts
voids the refrigerator's limited warranty coverage.
Technical Assistance
If technical issues are unable to be resolved using the
information provided in this manual, technical support for
service technicians is available through the NORCOLD®
Customer Service Center:
Telephone: ..................................1-800-444-7210.
Fax:.............................................1-937-497-3183.
World Wide Web: ............. www.norcold.com/cda.
The following information is required to process
technical support requests:
TModel number.
TSerial number.
TMake, model, and year of recreational vehicle.

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N500/N510 Models Refrigerator Service Manual
Figure 1. Information label location
Figure 2. Cooling unit label location
NORCOLD. INC.
SIDNEY, OHIO
pourle GPL, equipped por le propan
TESTED FOR LP GAS: EQUIPPED FOR PROPANE / Teste
2 Amps 240 Watts
SUPPLY
alimentati
11 "WC 10.5 "WC
BURNER
bruleur
120VAC
60Hz
12VDC
0.42 LBS
REFRIGERANT/frigorigene
R707
TEST PRESSURE /
D'ESSAI 800 PSI
14.10 Amps 170 Watts
SERIAL # / N de serie
XXXXXXX
MODEL # / N de modele
GROUP CODE / code de
INPUT / puissance
N510.3
For recreational vehicle installation
Min. Installation clearance 0" sides, top
bottom, back. Install only with Kit #5
See installation instructions
Pour installation vehicule de plaisance
Degagement minimum pour I'installation
0" cotes, haut,bas, arriere, Installer
uniquement avec latrousse n_5
Voir les instructions d'installation.
618860
40122
1200 BTUH
CSA-1.10-2003
REFRIGERATORS
ANZI Z221.19-2003
REFRIGERATORS
D
E
S
I
G
N
C
R
E
T
I
F
I
E
D
CERTIFIED
RR

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Safety Statements
Do not modify, alter, or equip the refrigerator to the use
of any other fuel (natural gas, butane, etc.). N500/N510
refrigerators are designed and equipped for the use of
LP gas–propane gas–only.
Incorrect installation, adjustment, alteration, or
maintenance of the refrigerator can cause personal
injury, property damage, or both.
Do not smoke, light fires, or create sparks when
working on the propane gas system.
Do not use an open flame for leak testing any of the
propane gas system components. Propane gas is highly
flammable and explosive.
Always use two wrenches to tighten or loosen LP gas
connections. Damaged connections, piping, and
components create the potential for gas leaks.
All electrical connections and repairs to the refrigerator
must comply with all applicable codes. Refer to the
certification and code requirements section of the N500/
N510 Installation Manual for more information.
Do not work on live electrical circuits. Turn off ac power
and dc power sources before attempting to remove,
service, or repair any of the refrigerator's electrical or
electronic components.
Do not modify, bypass, or eliminate any of the
refrigerator's electrical components, electronic circuits,
or propane gas system components.
Do not wet or spray liquids on or near electrical
connections or electronic components. Most liquids,
including leak detection solutions, are electrically
conductive and pose the potential for an electric shock
hazard, short electrical components, damage electronic
circuits, and/or ignite a fire.
Do not use leak test solutions that contain ammonia or
chlorine. Ammonia and chlorine degrade copper and
brass components.
The cooling unit is a sealed system under pressure!
Do not try to repair or recharge the cooling unit. Do not
bend, drop, weld, drill, puncture, saw, or strike the
cooling unit.
Handle a leaking cooling unit with extreme caution!
The cooling unit contains ammonia, hydrogen, and
sodium chromate. Ammonia can cause severe skin and
eye burns. Hydrogen is highly flammable, can ignite,
and burns with an intense flame. Certain chromium
compounds, such as sodium chromate, are
carcinogenic.
Do not use extension cords. Do not remove the
grounding prong from the refrigerator ac power cord. Do
not use a two prong adapter to connect the refrigerator
to the ac outlet.
Do not over-fuse electrical circuits. Use specified fuses
and AWG wire sizes. The "Specifications" section of this
manual provides fuse size information. Refer to the
N500/N510 Installation Manual for the correct AWG
wire size specifications.
Prevent child entrapment! Before disposing of the
refrigerator, remove all doors and fasten all shelves with
retainers.
Some of the refrigerator's metal components have
sharp corners and edges. Wear hand protection, such
as cut-resistant gloves, and exercise extreme care
when handling the refrigerator.
Make sure all hardware, such as hinges and fasteners
(retaining screws, etc.), is properly fastened.
SAFETYAWARENESS
Safety Notice
It is not possible to anticipate all of the conceivable
ways or conditions under which the refrigerator may
be serviced or to provide cautions as to all of the
possible hazards that may result. Standard and
accepted safety precautions and equipment should be
used when working on electrical circuits and handling
toxic or flammable materials. Safety goggles and
other required protection should be used during any
process that can cause material to become airborne,
such as removing a leaking cooling unit and cleaning
components.
Attention Statements
The safety alert symbol followed by the word
WARNING or CAUTION identifies potential safety
hazards or conditions.
The safety alert symbol with the appropriate heading
appears on all safety labels posted on the refrigerator
and safety awareness notices presented throughout
this manual.
!
CAUTION:
The above heading identifies hazards, which if
ignored can cause injury and/or property damage.
!
WARNING:
The above heading identifies hazards or conditions,
whichif ignoredcan causeserious injury, death,and/
or extensive property damage.
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N500/N510 Models Refrigerator Service Manual
N500 Models
SPECIFICATIONS
Storage volume
N500 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5.5 ft3.
Rough opening dimensions (H x W x D)
N500 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------42 5/8 in. x 23 11/16 in. x 24 in.
Decorative panels dimensions
Thickness--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3/16 in.
Door panel dimensions (H x W) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------31 in. x 21 5/16 in.
Controls
Type------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Top mounted
Temperature settings --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1=cold, 5=coldest
Temperature sensor --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Capillarytube
Off-level operating limits
Side-to-side ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 degrees maximum
Front-to-back --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 degrees maximum
DC power
Ignition circuit operating voltage --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10.5 to 15.4 Vdc
Relighter -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1.3 amp type 3AG
DC operation voltage (3-way models only)------------------------------------------------------------------- 12 Vdc to 15 Vdc
DC heater rating (3-way models only)------------------------------------10.7 amps @12 Vdc (resistance is 1.3 ohms)
DC amp draws (at nominal 12 Vdc)
Automatic ignition----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0.50A
AC power
AC heater operating voltage ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------108 to 132 Vac
AC heater circuit fuse ----------------------------------------------------- 5A, 1/4 in. x 1 1/4 in. AGC type fast acting, inline
AC heater rating ----------------------------------------------------------------200 W @ 110 Vac (resistance of 61.3 ohms)
LP gas (propane)
Operating pressure---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10.5 to 11.5 in. w.c.
Heat input--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1200 Btu/h @ 11 in. w.c.
Orifice ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------LP10
Gas ignition -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 12 Vdc ignition module
Electrode-to-burner air gap -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3/16 in.

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N510 Models
Storage volume
N510 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5.5 ft3.
Rough opening dimensions (H x W x D)
N510 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------42 5/8 in. x 23 11/16 in. x 24 in.
Decorative panels dimensions
Thickness--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3/16 in.
Door panel dimensions (H x W) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------31 in. x 21 5/16 in.
Controls
Type------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Electronic with built-in diagnostic function
ON/OFF/MODE/TEMP SET switches ------------------------------------------------------------------Flush pushbutton style
Temperature settings --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1=cold, 5=coldest
Temperature sensor --------------------------------------------------------------------------Thermistor, fin-mounted on 5th fin
Off-level operating limits
Side-to-side ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 degrees maximum
Front-to-back --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 degrees maximum
DC power
Controls operating voltage ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10.5 to 15.4 Vdc
Controls DC fuse (F2 in power board) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 Atype 3AG
DC operation voltage (3-way models only)-------------------------------------------------------------------12 Vdc to 15 Vdc
DC heater rating (3-way models only)------------------------------------10.7 amps @12 Vdc (resistance is 1.3 ohms)
DC amp draws (at nominal 12 Vdc)
Automatic ignition----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 0.50A
Gas valve --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------0.146 A
AC power
AC heater operating voltage requirements----------------------------------------------------------------------108 to 132 Vac
Fuse ac heater circuit (F3 in power board)----------------------------------- 5 A, 1/4 in. x 1 1/4 in. AGC type fast acting
AC heater rating ----------------------------------------------------------------200 W @ 110 Vac (resistance of 61.3 ohms)
LP gas (propane)
Operating pressure---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 10.5 to 11.5 in. w.c.
Heat input--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1200 Btu/h @ 11 in. w.c.
Orifice ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------LP10
Gas ignition --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Automatic with flame-sensing circuit
Electrode-to-burner air gap --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3/16 in.

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N500/N510 Models Refrigerator Service Manual
TROUBLESHOOTING - QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE
Problem Possible Cause Checks/Reference
The refrigerator does not cool on
dc power.
3-Way Units Only
3-Way Units Only
Check fuse.
Check heater resistance and continuity.
F2 fuse or dc heater inline fuse open.
DC heater failed open.
No ac power to refrigerator.
F3 fuse or ac heater inline fuse open.
AC heater failed open.
Check LP gas supply and valves.
Set electrode to 3/16 in.
Replace spark/sense electrode. See page 41.
Replace power board (N510). See page 43.
See page 13 (N510).
Check 12 Vdc connections.
Check fuse (N510).
No 12 Vdc power to refrigerator.
Faulty/loose 12 Vdc connections.
F1 fuse in power board open.
See page 9 (N500).
Check fuse.
Check heater resistance and continuity.
Ventilation obstructed.
AC voltage low.
Check enclosure for air flow obstructions.
Check ac voltage input.
Ventilation obstructed.
DC voltage below 12 volts.
Check enclosure for obstructed air flow.
Check dc power input.
No LP gas.
Incorrect electrode-to-burner gap.
Faulty spark/sense electrode assembly.
Flame sensing circuit failure.
Ventilation obstructed.
Incorrect LP gas pressure.
Dirty burner.
Missing flue baffle.
Flue cap blocked.
Check enclosure for obstructed air flow.
Set gas pressure to 10.5 to 11.5 in. w.c.
Clean burner. See page 28.
Replace flue baffle. See page 26.
Clear flue cap. See page 26.
The refrigerator does not turn ON.
The refrigerator does not cool on
ac power.
The refrigerator does not cool
efficiently on ac power.
The refrigerator does not operate
on LP gas.
The refrigerator does not cool
efficiently on dc power.
Poor or no cooling.
The refrigerator does not
cool efficiently on LP gas.
Poor ventilation.
Off-level operation.
Dirty burner.
Low ac voltage.
Cooling fan inoperative (if present).
Improper installation.
Incorrect orifice.
Check enclosure for obstructed air flow.
Level unit. See page 32.
Clean burner. See page 28.
Check ac voltage input.
Test fan operation.
Check installation. See pages 21 and 22
and N500/N510 Installation Manual.
Install correct orifice (LP10).

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Probable Cause ReferenceCode
See page 17.
See page 19.
Flashing
Temp
Setting
See page 17.
See page 18.
See page 18.
See page 15.
See page 16.
See page 16.
See pages 13 and 14..
Blank
Display
Screen
See pages
20 and 32.
Refrigerator turned off.
No 12 Vdc to refrigerator.
F1 fuse open.
DC voltage low.
Flame sense circuit failure.
Burner failed to ignite or reignite.
DC voltage high.
AC relay stuck closed.
No ac power available to refrigerator.
AC cord not plugged into power board.
F3 fuse open.
AC heater failed open.
Backup operating system in operation.
No cooling detected by the controls.
N510 DISPLAYED FAULT CODES

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TROUBLESHOOTING FLOWCHARTS - N500 UNITS
Burner Will Not Maintain Flame - N500 Units
Check thermocouple
connection at interrupter.
NO
Tighten connection. Do not overtighen
connection!
Connection
tight?
Thermocouple
centered?
Burner and
thermocouple
clean?
Clean and service burner and
thermocouple. See page 28.
NO
YES
Check that thermocouple
is centered on burner slots.
NO
Center thermocouple over center
of burner slots.
Check burner and
thermocouple for carbon
deposits.
Jump interrupter terminals
and light unit holding gas
safety valve in. See Figure 3.
NO
See procedure on page 12.
Does flame
stay lit?
Check selector switch wiring.
NO
Repair or replace selector switch wiring.
Wiring OK?
Check continuity across
red switch lead and blue
swtich lead (terminals
2a and 2b).
NO
Replace selector switch. See page 45.
Continutiy?
YES
YES
YES
YES
Figure 3. Jumping
interrupter terminals
Interrupter
Interrupter
terminals

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No AC Operation - N500 Units
Connections
good?
AC
voltage
present?
Before beginning this procedure make sure:
■
The refrigerator is receiving 108 (minimum) to 132 (maximum) Vac from a grounded receptacle.
■
Fuse holder and 3 amp fuse are in good condition.
■
Selector knob is set to "AC."
■
Thermostat knob is set to 5.
Check wiring, connections, and
terminal block and replace or
repair if necessary.
NO
YES
Check connections to and
from 3 amp fuse.
NO
Repair or replace connections.
Connec-
tions tight and
heater
good?
Check heater wire
connections and heater
resistance.
NO
Repair or replace connections. Replace
ac heater if resistance is below 58 or
above 64. See page 30.
Set Thermostat to 5. Check voltage
input to Thermostat and voltage output
from Thermostat to heater.
■
No voltage to input: Check blue wire
for continuity.
■
No voltage from output: Replace
Thermostat assembly.
Set selector switch to "AC."
Check voltage out of
selector switch terminal 1b.
NO
Replace selector switch. See page 45.
Check voltage to selector
switch terminal 1a.
NO
Check continuity of black wire connected
to 3 amp fuse. If no continuity, repair or
replace wire.
Measure voltage across
terminal block terminals
5 and 6.
YES
AC
voltage
present?
AC
voltage
present?
YES
YES
YES

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No DC Operation - N500.3 (3-Way Units Only)
DC voltage
present?
DC voltage
present?
Before beginning this procedure make sure:
■ The refrigerator is receiving dc power from the RV dc power system.
■ Voltage across terminal block connections 7 and 8 is at least 12 Vdc.
■ Fuse holder and 25 amp fuse are in good condition.
■ Selector switch is set to "DC."
Check for loose or damaged wiring.
Repair or replace as necessary.
NO
YES
Check voltage output from
selector switch terminal 4b.
NO Replace selector switch. See page 45.
YES
Connections
good?
Check dc heater wiring
connections.
NO Repair or replace wiring.
Check dc voltage input at
selector switch terminal
4a.
YES
Resistance
1.2 to 1.4?
Check dc heater resistance. NO Replace dc heater. See page 30.

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No LP Operation - N500 Units
Continuity?
Sparking?
Before beginning this procedure make sure:
■
The refrigerator is receiving dc power from the RV dc power system.
■
All ground connections are clean and making full contact.
■
LP gas is available.
■
LP gas tank valve(s) is open.
■
Refrigerator gas valve is open.
■
LP gas pressure is between 10.5 and 11.5 in. water column.
Set electrode air gap to 3/16 inch.
NO
YES
Check spark/sense electrode
assembly for continuity.
NO Replace spark/sense electrode assembly.
See page 41.
YES
DC voltage
present?
Check voltage input at
selector switch terminal 3a.
NO Check 1 amp fuse and fuse holder.
Replace relighter. See page 42.
YES
Check dc voltage at relighter.
See Figure 37, page 42.
NO Repair/replace orange wire.
YES
Check dc voltage output from
selector switch terminal 3b.
NO Replace selector switch. See page 45.
DC voltage
present?
Check electrode spark.
Burner
and orifice
clean?
Clean burner and orifice. See page 28.
NO
YES
Check burner and orifice
assembly.
YES
DC voltage
present?

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The following procedure and troubleshooting chart
check the operation of the thermocouple and the
interrupter.
Interrupter Voltage Output Check
1. Remove refrigerator from enclosure.
2. Remove upper shroud (four screws).
3. Connect an alternate LP gas supply. Gas pressure
must be between 10.5 and 11.5 in. water column.
4. Set selector knob to LP gas operation.
5. Set temperature control knob to 5.
6. Connect voltmeter as shown in Figure 4. Do not
disconnect wires from interrupter.
7. Press and hold gas safety valve and turn selector
knob to LP to ignite burner. Hold the valve open to
maintain the flame lit while following procedure
below.
Replace gas safety valve. See page 24.
Check thermocouple voltage
output to interrupter.
Replace thermocouple.
Check control switch connections.
10-30 mlV
across interrupter
terminals.
See Figure 6.
No voltage (0)
reading from
straight interrupter
terminal to ground.
See Figure 7.
YES
Voltage
10 to 30
mlV?
Replace thermocouple.
NO
Check thermocouple
voltage output. See
Figure 4.
No voltage (0)
reading from
angled interrupter
terminal to ground.
See Figure 5.
Figure 6. Checking voltage across
terminals
Figure 5. Checking angled terminal
to ground Figure 7. Checking straight terminal to ground
Thermocouple and Interrupter Malfunctioning - N500 Units
Figure 4. Checking thermocouple voltage output to
interrupter
MIN MAX RANGE HOLD
H
HzREL
mA
A
mV
V
V
OFF
!
!
ACOM V mA µA
1000V MAX
400mA MAX
FUSED
10A MAX
FUSED
PEAK MIN MAX
µA
CAT II
4 1/2 DIGITS
1 Seconds
87
TRUE RMS MULTIMETER
III
Insulator
Thermocouple
Angled
terminal
Straight
terminal
Interrupte
r
Angled
terminal
Straight
terminal
Interrupter
Angled
terminal
Straight
terminal
Interrupter

DRAFT
NOT FOR PUBLIC RELEASE
13
www.norcold.com/cda N500/N510 ModelsRefrigerator Service Manual
TROUBLESHOOTING FLOWCHART - N510 UNITS
Blank Display - Refrigerator does not turn on - N510
Before beginning this procedure make sure:
■ 12 Vdc input to the power board is wired according to the N500/N510 Installation Manual.
■ No other RV appliances or lighting circuits are connected to the refrigerator dc circuit.
Fault indicator displayed:
LP GASAC
AUTO
Blank
Display
Screen
Measure voltage at power
board 12VDC and GND1
connections.
1. No dc power input from RV to unit.
2. Faulty wiring or connectors.
NO
NO
YES
Check condition of F1 fuse
in power board. See
Figure 8.
Replace fuse. Use a standard 5 amp
(tan color) automotive blade type fuse.
10.5
to
15.4 Vdc?
YES
See procedure on page 14.
F1 fuse okay?
MINMAX RANGE HOLD
H
Hz
REL
mA
A
mV
V
V
OFF
!
!
ACOM V
mA µA
1000VMAX
400mAMAX
FUSED
10AMAX
FUSED
PEAKMIN MAX
µA
CATII
41/2 DIGITS
1Seconds
87
TRUERMSMULTIMETER
III
Good= 00.0 Ω
00.0
Bad = OL
Figure 8: Checking dc fuse continuity

DRAFT
NOT FOR PUBLIC RELEASE
14
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N500/N510 Models Refrigerator Service Manual
Optical Display Does Not Turn On - Power is available - N510
12 Vdc
present?
12 Vdc
present?
Correct 12 Vdc voltage input to
power board.
NO
YES
Check for control voltage
across optical control wire
harness connector white/red
wire and white/violet wire.
NO
Check condition of power board fuse F1.
Replace fuse if open (blown).
YES
Check for control voltage
across power board
terminals 12VDC and GND 1.
12 Vdc
present?
Check for control voltage
across power board wire
harness connector white/red
wire and white/violet wire.
NO
Replace power board. See page 43.
YES
12 Vdc
present?
Push and hold OFF/ON
switch, then check voltage
across wire harness optical
control connector blue and
white/violet wire.
NO
Replace optical control display circuit
board. See page 47.
YES
12 Vdc
present?
Release the OFF/ON switch,
then check voltage across
wire harness optical control
connector green and
white/violet wire.
NO
Replace power board. See page 43.
YES
LED
illuminated?
Check optical control
display operation.
NO
Replace optical control display circuit
board. See page 47.
YES
Refrigerator operating as designed.

DRAFT
NOT FOR PUBLIC RELEASE
15
www.norcold.com/cda N500/N510 ModelsRefrigerator Service Manual
Gap
3/16 inch?
Burner
and orifice
clean?
Before beginning this procedure make sure:
■
RV LP gas tank valve(s) is open.
■
Refrigerator solenoid gas valve manual shutoff is open.
■
LP gas pressure at the solenoid gas valve pressure tap is 10.5 to 11.5 inches water column.
Fault indicator displayed:
LP GASAC
AUTO
Clean and service burner and orifice.
See page 28.
NO
YES
Check that electrode-to-
burner air gap is correct.
NO
Set electrode-to-burner gap 3/16 inch.
YES
Continuity?
Check spark/sense electrode
assembly for continuity.
NO
Replace spark/sense electrode
assembly. See page 41.
Voltage
present?
YES
Check voltage across power
board terminals GV and
GV_GND.
NO
Replace power board. See page 43.
Continuity?
YES
Check gas valve solenoid
wires for continuity.
NO
Replace gas valve wires.
YES
Check gas valve solenoid
resistance.
NO
Replace gas valve.
79 to 85 Ω?
Check burner and orifice.
YES
Faulty or obstructed gas valve.
Replace gas valve.
F Fault Code - Burner failed to ignite or reignite - N510

DRAFT
NOT FOR PUBLIC RELEASE
16
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N500/N510 Models Refrigerator Service Manual
E Fault Code - DC voltage high - N510
NOTE
Electronic controls operate on 12 Vdc. When an ac/dc converter is used to
supplydcpower, therefrigerator circuit mustbe connected tothe appliance
output terminals of the converter (filtered side).
If the refrigerator circuit is connected to the unfiltered side, the ac ripple
generated by the converter may cause a "E" or “C” fault code to display.
To troubleshoot an "E" or “C” fault, connect a charged 12 volt automotive
batteryto thepower board.If the"E" or“C” codeclears, thefault wascaused
by unfiltered dc power. If the "E" or “C” code does not clear, replace the
power board (see page 43).
Before beginning this procedure:
■ Make sure RV dc voltage to refrigerator is 10.5 to 15.4 volts.
■ Determine if the "E" fault code displays when the converter is the source of dc power.
Fault indicator displayed.
Voltage
higher than
15.4 Vdc?
NO
Correct incoming dc power distribution to
refrigerator. Power distribution must be
10.5 - 15.4 Vdc.
YES
See NOTE above to determine
and correct an "E" fault.
Check for dc voltage input
to power board terminals
12VDC and GND1.
LP GASAC
AUTO
Before beginning this procedure:
■ Make sure RV dc voltage to refrigerator is 10.5 to 15.4 volts.
■ Determine if the "C" fault code displays when the converter is the source of dc power.
Fault indicator displayed.
Voltage
lower than
10.5 Vdc?
NO
Correct incoming dc power distribution to
refrigerator. Power distribution must be
10.5-15.4 Vdc.
YES
See NOTE above to determine
and correct a "C" fault.
Check for dc voltage input
to power board terminals
12VDC and GND1.
LP GASAC
AUTO
C Fault Code - DC voltage low - N510

DRAFT
NOT FOR PUBLIC RELEASE
17
www.norcold.com/cda N500/N510 ModelsRefrigerator Service Manual
A Fault Code - No ac power available - N510
Before beginning this procedure make sure:
■ No other problem exist with the RV ac power supply.
■ No other appliances or lighting circuits are connected to the refrigerator ac circuit.
■ Extension cords are not being used to supply ac power to the refrigerator.
Fault indicator displayed:
LP GASAC
AUTO
F3 fuse okay?
1. Check ac power input from RV to unit.
2. Check for faulty ac power cord.
NO
NO
YES
Check condition of F3 fuse
in power board.
Replace fuse. Use a 5 amp, 1/4" x 11/4"
AGC, fast-acting type fuse.
108
to
132 Vac?
YES
Check that fuse holder clips
are making full contact with
fuse.
Adjust clips to ensure fuse contacts are
firm in clips and making full contact.
YES
Clips okay? NO
Replace power board. See page 43.
Measure ac voltage input
to power board.
Fault indicator displayed: LP GASAC
AUTO
Replace power board.
See page 43.
Flame sense circuit failure.
S Fault Code - Flame sense circuit failure - N510