Tundra M1500 User manual

Quick Troubleshooting Guide
TUN-QTSG-0519-EN
For power inverter models M1500 – M2000 – M2500 – M3000
Tel.: [phone] Fax.: [phone]
TUNDRAINVERTERS.COM
TRUCK POWER INVERTERS
Quick Troubleshooting Guide
For power inverter models M1500 – M2000 – M2500 – M3000
INDEX
P.2 INTRODUCTION - SAFETY - LIMITATIONS
P.3 FRONT PANELS & MONITORS
P.4 ERROR CODES
PP.5-6 COMMON PROBLEMS & COMMON CAUSES
PP.7-21 PROCEDURES
P.22+ ANNEXES
© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
No part of this publication may be reproduced or used without the prior written permission of Tundra
International. No liability can be accepted for any inaccuracies or omissions in this publication, although every
possible care has been taken to make it as complete and accurate as possible. The right is reserved to make
changes at any time without prior notice, and without incurring an obligation to make such changes applicable to
previously manufactured products. All information contained in this publication is based on the latest product
information available at the time of publication. Illustrations and photographs in this publication are intended for
reference use only.
TUNDRAINVERTERS.COM
May 2019
Part No. TUN-QTSG-0519-EN
First Edition
PRINTED IN CANADA
1

Quick Troubleshooting Guide
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For power inverter models M1500 – M2000 – M2500 – M3000
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INTRODUCTION
This step-by-step troubleshooting guide will help you identify the root cause of the most common problems on
power inverters installed in a commercial truck application. This guide is designed to be used primarily by
trained mechanics and in a properly equipped shop. A basic knowledge of mechanics and electricity, the proper
use of tools and common workshop procedures are required to adequately and safely perform all recommended
tasks. For a successful diagnostic, you must read all the instructions thoroughly to familiarize yourself with
procedures before starting the work.
SAFETY FIRST
A power inverter is an energy conversion device that must be taken seriously. Similar to that produced by a conventional
electrical network, its electric current is powerful enough to injure or kill. As such, the inverter should only be installed and
serviced by qualified technicians.
 A power inverter is an energy conversion device that MUST be taken seriously and MUST
be serviced with care.
 For your own safety and that of others, make sure you understand all the steps outlined in
this manual before servicing.
 Do not carry out the tasks of an electrician if you don’t have the knowledge and skills required.
 Always keep in mind that you can be badly injured working on or around a motor vehicle.
 Only do service work for which you have the proper knowledge. If you have any doubt
about your ability to perform a maintenance or a repair job, you should not undertake it.
LIMITATIONS
The procedures described in this guide are only suggestions and are not mandatory. Therefore, Tundra
International cannot be held liable for incidental or consequential damages or any other damage arising from the
use of this guide. This includes, without limitation, injuries, damage resulting from loss of use, installation or
uninstallation costs, and any other problems.
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Quick Troubleshooting Guide
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For power inverter models M1500 – M2000 – M2500 – M3000
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FRONT PANELS & MONITORS
Models: M1500 – M2000
Models: M2500 – M3000
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ERROR CODES
M Series power inverters are equipped with an LCD
monitor that displays important information to better
understand the operational limitations of the inverter.
It will also display error codes to advise the user about the reason for the device to shutting down. Make sure
you understand each error code as it will help troubleshoot the root cause of most related problems.
NOTE: The monitor is a great diagnostic tool! If the inverter you are
evaluating is not equipped with an LCD monitor, you must
install one to get a more accurate and faster diagnosis.
CAUTION: Get the right monitor! Mixing the versions
could lead to false results.
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COMMON PROBLEMS & COMMON CAUSES (Part 1)
This section explains common problems encountered in a commercial truck application and gives possible root
causes. Review each procedure to obtain the best results.
MONITOR FUNDAMENTALS
1. ERR LOW  Low voltage protection shut down
A. Improper installation P.7
B. Lack of maintenance P.8
C. Discharged/damaged batteries PP. 9-10
D. Vehicle electrical system issues P.11
2. OVR LOAD  Overload protection shut down
E. High-reaching power consumption P.12
F. Inadequate/damaged 120 V wiring P.13
3. OVR TEMP  High temperature shut down
H. Improper inverter location P.15
I. Damaged cooling fan P.16
4. ERR HIGH  High input voltage shut down
D. Vehicle electrical system issues P.11
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COMMON PROBLEMS & COMMON CAUSES (Part 2)
OTHER COMMON PROBLEM
5. The inverter does not turn on
A. Improper installation P.7
B. Lack of maintenance P.8
J. Reversed polarity P.17
K. Main DC fuse blown (on DC cables) P.18
L. Damaged monitor cable / monitor P.19
6. No output voltage
G. Defective 120V output receptacle P.14
7. Improper output voltage
M. Improper diagnostic tools P.19
8. Noise in audio/video equipment
N. Magnetic field side effects P.20
9. Certain loads are not properly working
O. Modified sine wave limitations P.20
10. Cable size & fuse rating
P. Cable & fuse chart P.21
ANNEXES
1. Dynacraft battery cables modification
2. Testing for parasitic loads
3. Installation workbook
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A – IMPROPER INSTALLATION
Improper installation is the most common cause of power inverter malfunction, which often results from impaired
flow of current between the batteries and the power inverter. A power inverter operates between 11.0 and
13.6 volts. If the input voltage at the power inverter drops below 11.0 volts, the low voltage protection mode will
be activated, and the power inverter will shut OFF by itself.
INSTALLATION FUNDAMENTALS
1. Follow installation procedures carefully and use the proper techniques.
References: TDIW-0417-EN / Installation Workbook (ANNEX 3)
QIG1530-0119-EN_A2 / Quick Installation Guide (ANNEX 2)
PROCEDURE P / Cable Sizing & Fuse Rating (Page 21)
2. Make sure that all terminals are properly “crimped” and NOT soldered.
3. Make sure the connection at the batteries are clean and in full contact with the battery’s posts.
4. If equipped with Dynacraft battery links, make sure there is full contact between terminals.
Reference: TUN-NL_DYNA-1114-EN / Dynacraft battery cables modification. (ANNEX 1)
5. Perform routine maintenance on batteries and terminals. See PROCEDURE B (Page 8).
IF A SMALL LOAD (I.E. 100 W) CAN BE SUPPLIED PROPERLY BUT A GREATER ONE
(I.E. 1000 W) IS PUTTING THE INVERTER IN A LOW VOLTAGE PROTECTION MODE,
(ERR LOW) YOU SHOULD PERFORM A VOLTAGE LOAD TEST TO DETERMINE IF THE
INSTALLATION IS AT FAULT.
VOLTAGE DROP TEST PROCEDURE – BATTERIES MUST BE FULLY CHARGED
 Try to run the inverter with the greatest possible load.
 Measure the voltage difference between the batteries and the inverter DC inputs.
This procedure will give you the voltage drop (loss) in the DC cables. A tolerance of 0.5 V is acceptable at full
capacity of the power inverter. If you are not at full capacity, and if the voltage drop is greater than 0.5 V, the
installation requires attention.
BEST PRACTICE
Using one of our CM Series Installation Kits is strongly recommended as it will resolve most related issues. For
best results, it is important you follow recommended procedures.
 RECOMMENDED cable sizing & fuse rating available on page 21
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B – LACK OF MAINTENANCE
Battery maintenance on a commercial vehicle is often overlooked. Over time, the various electrical connections
tend to loosen, corrode and lose their effectiveness. Battery maintenance should be part of a regular preventive
maintenance program to avoid the most common power inverter issues.
MAINTENANCE FUNDAMENTALS
Today’s battery terminals and connectors that are mostly tinned or zinc plated are therefore less prone to visible
corrosion like it used to be with bare copper. On the other hand, they are subject to a chemical reaction that
produces a “gum” which will prevent the free flow of electricity over time.
 BASIC TERMINAL CLEANING MUST BE PERFORMED EVERY 6 MONTHS.
1. Battery cleaning must be made regularly using a grease dissolvent agent.
2. All battery terminals and accessory cables must be disassembled and cleaned on BOTH faces.
3. All battery terminals must be re-installed DRY. If you intend to use a protective sealant, we
suggest using an aerosol type protectant that "dries” like paint. The protective sealant must
only be applied on top of properly tightened connectors.
BEST PRACTICE
Never use grease on battery terminals. Most
greases being dielectric, they can interfere with
the free flow of electricity and promote attraction
of road contaminants. The accumulation of
contaminants on the batteries can cause a faster
deterioration of terminals and cause unwanted
cycling and premature battery failure.
We recommend using PLASTIKOTE 278.
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C – DISCHARGED / BAD BATTERIES (Part 1)
To supply a power inverter with the voltage and amperage it needs,
batteries must be in good condition and preferably fully charged. In the
event where the power inverter would go into ERR LOW, (Low Voltage
Protection Mode) a thorough assessment of the situation must be made.
BATTERY PROBLEM FUNDAMENTALS
1. IS CONSUMPTION TOO HIGH FOR THE BATTERIES?
Episodic and sudden battery discharge problems are frequent. The consumption through the power inverter could
be greater than expected by the user. The use of a 1500-watt toaster oven for example (150 A consumption at
the batteries) will quickly deplete the batteries, while a television set can operate for many hours without any
problem.
Typical load consumption VS. Consumption at the batteries
Load consumption in watts @ 120 V Consumption @ 12 V at the batteries
1500 W (toaster oven) → 150 A
700 W (microwave) → 120 A
150 W (television set) → 15 A
 IN A CASE OF AN ERR LOW SITUATION, RUNNING THE ENGINE IN FAST-IDLE MODE COULD
HELP REPLENISH THE BATTERIES AND RESUME OPERATION OF THE POWER INVERTER. A
FEW HOURS AT HIGHWAY SPEED COULD BE REQUIRED IN SOME CASES.
DID YOU KNOW?
Consuming 10 times more energy (i.e. 150 A vs. 15 A)
discharges the batteries about 30 times faster!
2. IS THE RIGHT GRADE OF BATTERY BEING USED?
Medium CCA batteries offer the best durability (800 CCA for example) and the best compromise between
autonomy, engine start capacity and durability. Ultra-high CCA batteries (950+ CCA) tend to wear out more
quickly than lower CCA versions. They contain less water and therefore, evaporate faster.
→ CONTINUES ON PAGE 10
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C – DISCHARGED / BAD BATTERIES (Part 2)
3. ARE THE BATTERIES IN GOOD CONDITION?
A battery bank that gets discharged faster than usual could be at the end of its useful life.
 Slowly recharge all 4 batteries and load-test them individually using a quality AVR designed for this
purpose. If one or more batteries are to be replaced, you should replace them all at once and keep the
good batteries for later temporary fixes.
4. ARE THE BATTERIES CLEAN?
Batteries should always be kept clean. The accumulation of dirt and wet contaminants tends to create a constant
discharge pattern (cycling) and favors premature wear. See PROCEDURE B (Page 8).
5. ARE THE BATTERIES RUNNING OUT OF POWER AFTER SEVERAL DAYS OF INACTIVITY?
Tundra power inverters consume about 150 mA (0.150 A) when turned ON and left unattended (no load is
supplied). At this level of consumption, it would take several weeks before completely discharging a truck
battery bank. If you have such discharg problems after of a few days of inactivity, it is most likely due to the
following two reasons:
A. The battery bank could be at the end of its useful life.
 Slowly recharge all 4 batteries and load-test them individually using a quality AVR
designed for this purpose.
 If one or more batteries are to be replaced, you should replace them all at once
and keep the good batteries for temporary fixes.
 At the same time, verify alternator capacity.
B. You are dealing with one or more parasitic loads that are unrelated to the power inverter and that
discharge the vehicle's batteries (e.g. CB radio, refrigerator, electric blanket, fan, lamp).
 If the batteries of the vehicle have been tested as functional, it is recommended you look for a parasitic
load before suspecting the inverter. See PROCEDURE D (Page 11).
BEST PRACTICE
A. Batteries should never be tested without being slowly recharged.
B. When evaluating batteries, alternator capacity should always be verified at the same time.
C. Never replace only one battery on a bank of 4 batteries. Combining new batteries with older ones will
promote a rapid deterioration of the most recent / better batteries.
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D – VEHICLE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM ISSUES
Discharged batteries cause engine starting problems for which the power inverter is always suspected. But
electrical issues interfering with the operation of the vehicle can also interfere with the operation of the power
inverter. Below is a liste of the most common problems.
1. CHARGING PROBLEMS
Commercial trucks frequently experience charging problems. In case of unusual battery discharge, the alternator
should be checked.
2. IMPROPER ALTERNATOR CAPACITY
A commercial truck equipped with an alternator of 160 A may experience frequent charging capacity problems. If
consumption is greater than the alternator’s charging capacity, the batteries may never fully charge, even if the
vehicle has been driven for more than eight consecutive hours. This situation occurs mainly in winter and/or at
night, when the various electrical systems are highly solicited. If the batteries are in a discharged state and the
alternator is testing good, you should consider replacing it with a more powerful one.
3. PARASITIC (GHOST) LOADS
A parasitic load consumes energy even when the vehicle's engine is not running. Parasitic loads are common in
commercial vehicles. They essentially serve to store the user's parameters and to power the internal clocks of the
various on-board electronic systems.
Normal parasitic loads: ECM’s (powertrain, cab, etc.), radio memory, alarm system, tracking system.
If you have deep discharge problems after 2-3 days of inactivity you must:
A. Investigate if the driver may have left something connected (refrigerator, lighting, etc.)
B. Make sure the batteries are clean. Contaminants on the batteries can generate a parasitic load, and
cause unwanted cycling and faster discharge of the batteries.
C. Check for parasitic loads that might be responsible for draining the batteries. Verify all onboard systems.
See PROCEDURE D (ANNEX 2).
4. ENGINE START PROBLEM
Starting problems can be caused by many factors other than the state of the truck's batteries and/or side effects
of the power inverter. Here are three of the most common causes:
A. Corrosion at the various starter connections
B. Starter at the end of its useful life / internal corrosion or severe wear
C. Corrosion on the battery terminals
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E – HIGH-REACHING CONSUMPTION
M Series power inverters are equipped with an overload protection that
always prevents the user from exceeding the capacity of the inverter.
When the inverter goes into OVR LOAD mode, it means that the user is
consuming more energy than the actual capacity of the inverter.
THE FIRST THING TO DO is to reduce consumption to a level
below the maximum capacity of the inverter
1. SOME LOADS CONSUME MORE THAN YOU THINK
Some loads can consume more than expected and, consequently, give the impression that a power inverter is
unable to support its claimed output capacity. Here are three common examples:
A. 15 A WORKSHOP VACUUM CLEANER: Some vacuum cleaners can consume up to 1575 W
continuously and more than 4000 W at start-up for 3 or 4 seconds. This is beyond the capacity of most
1500 W power inverters.
B. 700 W MICROWAVE OVEN: The advertised 700 W is the cooking power only. Such ovens will
consume around 1500 W at start-up and around 1250 W continuously.
C. 700 W MICROWAVE + 1000 W TOASTER OVEN: When two devices are combined, the power
consumption and peak power required by both devices must be considered. This combination requires
an inverter of at least 2500 W.
2. PEAK CONSUMPTION AT START-UP
In contrast to residential electricity, most power inverter does not sustain peak power for more than 250 ms (1/4
of a second). At start-up, some devices consume up to 10 times more current than they do ontinuously. As
such, some devices cannot be powered by an inverter even though they work perfectly when plugged into the
power grid.
3. SIDE EFFECTS OF EXTENSION CORDS
When very long and small gauge extension cords are used, the power inverter may sense resistance in the
system and trigger its overload protection early on. Minimizing the length and maximizing the wire gauge of the
extension cords will help minimize unwanted side effects.
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F – INADEQUATE / DAMAGED 120 V WIRING
Problems with 120 V wiring can interfere with the proper operation of the power inverter. When an output capacity
problem is suspected, THE FIRST THING TO DO is to disconnect all extension cords and power strips from the
power inverter and run a test directly from the inverter.
120 V WIRING FUNDAMENTALS
1. SOME ELECTRICAL CORDS ARE INADEQUATE
A. The ideal wire gauge of an extension cord is AWG14. (AWG16 is acceptable on power inverters
of 1500 W and under;) All extension cords with smaller gauges (AWG18 - AWG20 - AWG22) are
to be avoided.
B. A lengthy extension cord may create resistance in the output of a power inverter and reduce the
available power. It is recommended to limit the length of an extension cord to 15 feet.
C. “Dollar store” like products should be avoided.
2. POWER STRIPS WITH SURGE PROTECTION
Power strips with build-in surge protection may compromise an inverter's ability to properly recognize a load. If
you have power problems with such power strips, try to run the load directly from the inverter.
3. “HOME-MADE” POWER OUTLETS
We strongly discourage the use of home-made power outlets as they can be responsible for many problems,
e.g. improper wiring path, reversed polarity, grounding of the receptacles with the chassis of the vehicle, etc.
4. DAMAGED WIRING
During installation, some 120V wires may have been passed
through walls and vehicle compartments where sharp edges are
common. To find a damage extension, disconnect it from the
inverter and connect the same load directly on the inverter. If
the load is working properly, the extension may be defective.
BEST PRACTICE
Use Tundra IPO SERIES OF IN-CAB
POWER OUTLETS as they exceed all
electrical standards. They are safe, easy to
install and cost effective.
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G – DEFECTIVE 120 V OUTPUT RECEPTACLE
If the power inverter can be turned ON but does not generate any output
power, the AC output receptacle located on the front of the power inverter
may be defective. Follow the steps below to determine if the receptacle is
defective and needs to be replaced.
Warning: The electricity produced by a power
inverter is potentially lethal. If you do not have
the skills required to complete the following
steps, please refer the work to a qualified
technician.
TEST & REPAIR PROCEDURES
1. Disconnect all extension cords and power strips and try to run the load directly from the power inverter.
2. Attempt to connect the same load to the electrical power grid to confirm the load is working properly.
If your load is working, move to STEP 3. Picture 1 Picture 2
3. Turn OFF the power inverter.
4. Remove the top cover of the inverter (picture 1)
5. Turn ON the power inverter.
6. Using a TRUE RMS voltmeter, take a voltage
reading at the locations on picture 2.
 If you read between 115 and 125 volts, the
power inverter is OK. Replace the AC
receptacle.
 If you do not read anything, the inverter is
defective.
Caution: Do not touch anything inside the power inverter. Some
components may be electrically charged, and you may be
electrocuted. Always put the cover back in place between jobs to
avoid the risk of electrocution.
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H – IMPROPER INVERTER LOCATION
An inverter going into OVR TEMP mode is most likely installed in an
inappropriate location where it cannot properly be cooled. A power
inverter MUST always be installed where conditions are optimal.
THE FIRST THING TO DO is to shut down the
power inverter and allow it to cool down.
INVERTER LOCATION FUNDAMENTALS
1. We recommend installing a power inverter in a dry, cool and
ventilated area such as the under-bed storage compartment.
2. We strongly discourage installation in the following places:
A. IN A CLOSET: Closets are usually very crowded, and air circulation is not adequate. The risks
of overheating are too high. This configuration also increases the risk of damaging the cooling
fan, which is NOT designed to work in continuous mode.
B. BEHIND THE DRIVER SEAT: This configuration causes the fan to be located below the
inverter. As the heat rises convectionnally, the fan pulls the heat back inside the inverter and
increases the chances of overheating.
C. NEAR A CAB HEATER (Espar or Webasto type): This type of auxiliary heating system can
generate a lot of heat and can cause the inverter to overheat unnecessarily.
3. We recommend leaving at least 4 inches of space all around the power inverter for sufficient airflow.
4. The vents located on the front and rear panels should never be obstructed.
5. The fan should never point down. It should either:
A. Face LEFT or RIGHT when the power inverter is mounted horizontally.
B. Face UP when the power inverter it is mounted vertically.
RECOMMENDATIONS
1. THE FAN IS WORKING BUT THE POWER INVERTER
STILL FALLS INTO OVR TEMP MODE: Relocate the
inverter to a suitable location.
2. THE FAN DOES NOT WORK BEFORE THE UNIT
FALLS INTO OVR TEMP MODE: Replace the fan with
a new one and relocate the inverter if it does not meet
the criteria mentioned above. See PROCEDURE J
(page 17).
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I – DAMAGED COOLING FAN
All Tundra power inverters are equipped with a thermostatically controlled
cooling fan on the rear panel. This cooling should be able to lower the
internal temperature of the inverter in most circumstances and allow it to
operate continuously. Tundra inverters are also equipped with an
overheating protection triggered by the internal heat of the power inverter.
This protection is directly related to the proper operation of the cooling
fan.
COOLING FAN FUNDAMENTALS
The fan is thermostatically controlled. This means that the inverter has to work close to its full capacity for a few
minutes until the fan starts.
TEST PROCEDURE
Turn the power inverter ON and observe if the fan turns for 1 second during the initial start-up.
One beep Fan start for 1 second
→ If the fan turns during the initial start-up, the inverter may have to be relocated (see PROCEDURE H,
page 15). Its installation will have to be validated (see PROCEDURE A, page 5).
→ If the fan does NOT start turning during the initial start-up, replace the fan.
Picture 1 Picture 2
REPLACEMENT PROCEDURE
1. Disconnect both power inverter cablesfrom
the batteries.
2. Remove the power inverter from the vehicle.
3. Remove the top cover of the power inverter
(picture 1.)
4. Remove the cooling fan (picture 2).
5. Install a new cooling fan.
6. Reinstall the power inverter cover.
7. Reinstall the power inverter in the vehicle.
8. Reconnect the power inverter cables.
9. Turn the power inverter ON and test at full
capacity for 5 minutes to see if the fan is
working properly.
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J – REVERSED POLARITY
The 12 V DC cables on a power inverter are often reversed during installation or maintenance. This common
mistake, which leads to inverter failure, is not covered by the warranty, but can usually be fixed by simply
replacing the internal ATO fuses.
REPAIR PROCEDURE ATO FUSE
Carefully follow these instructions:
1. Disconnect both power inverter cables from the batteries.
2. Remove the power inverter from the vehicle.
3. Remove the top cover of the power inverter (picture 1).
4. Remove both red cables from the power posts (picture 2).
5. Remove all ATO fuses using long nose pliers (picture 3).
6. Replace all ATO fuses with IDENTICAL (type and rating) fuses.
CAUTION: USING DIFFERENT FUSES MAY CAUSE
PREMATURE FAILURE OR A FIRE.
7. Reinstall both red cables on the power posts (picture 2).
8. Reinstall the power inverter cover (picture 1).
9. Reinstall the power inverter in the vehicle.
10. Reconnect the power inverter cables.
11. Turn the power inverter ON and test its output capacity.
Picture 1 Picture 2 Picture 3
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K – MAIN DC FUSE BLOWN (ON DC CABLES)
The DC fuse is a crucial component of a power inverter installation. Its selection, location and maintenance are
all important to user and vehicle safety.
DC FUSE FUNDAMENTALS
1. WHAT IS A MAIN DC FUSE FOR?
The main DC fuse is used to protect the vehicle against fire hazard in the event of a rupture in one of the cables
connecting the inverter to the batteries. It does not protect the power inverter.
2. NEVER USE DC BREAKERS ON A POWER INVERTER
DC breakers that are either manually resettable of fully automatic aren’t designed to support power inverters.
They tend to corrode from the inside out and their effectiveness is questionable. They are at the root of many
recurring problems such as untimely triggering.
3. BEST PRACTICE – ALWAYS USE A FUSE
The best type of fuse for a power inverter is CNL type or its equivalent
ANL type. They must be selected according to cable size they intend to
protect. Refer to PROCEDURE P (page 20) to identify which fuse rating
goes with which cable sizes.
TROUBLESHOOTING PROCEDURE
Visually check the condition of the fuse or using a multimeter. If blown, validate the
following before replacing it.
1. Is the fuse of the right type and rating? See PROCEDURE P (page 21).
2. Is the fuse clean and corrosion free? See PROCEDURE B (page 8).
3. Is the 12 V wiring between the batteries and the power inverter in good condition?
 Check for signs of abrasion marks and cracks.
4. Are the DC inputs of the inverter in good condition?
5. Are both DC input bolts at the power inverter firmly tightened?
6. Are both DC input rubber insulators in place and in good condition?
 A fuse rarely blows without a reason. Never replace a fuse
without asking yourself why it has blown.
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Quick Troubleshooting Guide
TUN-QTSG-0519-EN
For power inverter models M1500 – M2000 – M2500 – M3000
Tel.: [phone] Fax.: [phone]
TUNDRAINVERTERS.COM
L – DAMAGED MONITOR CABLE / DAMAGED MONITOR
The monitor allows to interact with the power inverter remotely. It is linked
to the power inverter using an 8-wire reinforced Ethernet cable. The
power inverter can be used without the monitor by using the ON/OFF
switch located on the inverter’s front panel.
TEST PROCEDURE
Before suspecting the monitor or its cable, you should
validate that the power inverter is working properly.
Picture 1
1. Check if the red switch is ON on the front panel of the
power inverter (picture 1).
2. Check that both monitor cable connectors are properly
plugged in behind the monitor and at the power inverter.
3. Check for visual signs of damage on the monitor cable
If everything looks normal
4. Disconnect the monitor cable at the power inverter and
try to operate the power inverter without the monitor.
A. IF the power inverter is working properly, replace
the monitor cable first.
B. IF it still does not work, replace the monitor.
M – IMPROPER DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS
Many multimeters available on the market are unable to
properly read the voltage on a modified sine wave power
inverter. To prevent false diagnostics, you must use a True
RMS multimeter to get accurate values.
Normal voltage values must range from 115 to 125V
Keep in mind that the $ value of a multimeter does not
reflect the fact that it is a True RMS or not. The tool must be
marked TRUE RMS to qualify.
19

Quick Troubleshooting Guide
TUN-QTSG-0519-EN
For power inverter models M1500 – M2000 – M2500 – M3000
Tel.: [phone] Fax.: [phone]
TUNDRAINVERTERS.COM
N – MAGNETIC FIELD SIDE EFFECTS
Televisions and CB radios are designed to pick up wave signal regardless of their source. Induction loads from
electric motors (e.g. refrigerator, compressor) can emit a magnetic field strong enough for it to be interpreted as
a signal and therefore, be picked up by a TV or a CB radio. Although the problem may be impossible to
eliminate, the following procedure may help you mitigate its effects.
IMPROVEMENT PROCEDURE
1. Make sure the DC cables (from the batteries to the power inverter) are attached together as much as
possible between the inverter and the batteries.
2. Ground the CB radio at the batteries directly and NOT through the body of the vehicle.
3. Shut OFF the TV and the CB radio when using an inductive load. (e.g. microwave oven, blender, etc.)
O – MODIFIED SINE WAVE LIMITATIONS
The AC output power generated by M Series power inverters is called a modified sine wave. It is a stepped
waveform suitable for most AC loads and designed to have characteristics like public utility power. Some
appliances however, may not adequately interpret the waveform produced by this inverter and could function
erratically or not function at all. In such a case, the power inverter's search mode can be switched to "variable
mode." In most cases (but not all), this mode will allow the inverter to recognize "difficult" loads such as those of
video game consoles and some microwave ovens.
CORRECTIVE PROCEDURE Picture 1 Picture 2
1. Turn OFF the power inverter.
2. Using a small flat screwdriver, remove the
gray rubber cover entirely (picture 1).
3. Change the position of switch 2 - the one on
the right side (pîcture 2).
 The upper position generally gives the
best results.
4. Turn the power inverter ON and test the
“difficult” load again.
5. Reinstall the gray rubber cover carefully.
 Changing the “search mode” may result in incompatibility with other loads.
Check that your other usual loads are still working.
 DO NOT change the orientation of switch 1 - the one on the left side. It
controls power inverter shutdown in relation to battery voltage. This switch
must remain at the high position on a commercial truck.
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