Step-by-step guide to fridge selector switch repair

I was having problems with my Dometic fridge, when using gas. The fridge would ignite, but on releasing the thermostat control, it would go out again. 

This could be rectified by briskly rotating the selector knob between mains and gas a few times and all would be well for a few weeks before it played up again. So, I decided to get it fixed. 

I could go for a replacement selector switch, but I reasoned that there was nothing lost by trying to fix the existing switch. I’m a qualified automotive engineer with 50 years’ experience in the industry, so have the relevant skills to tackle it. 

The only snag is that, to get to the switch, it is necessary to withdraw the fridge forward about 20cm. So first I isolated mains and gas circuits (for non sparkies, this means disconnecting the mains hook-up lead from the motorhome and turning off the gas supply at the cylinder).

For the 12V system, disconnect the negative connection of the leisure battery and under no circumstance start the vehicle engine with it all apart. 

Removing the fridge vents gives you access to the gas line and the 12v circuits. A good tip is to take a photo of the connections as you won’t remember what goes where when refitting! 

The mains supply had enough slack, for me to trace the cable back and unplug it. Back inside the van, I removed the control knobs (they are different so I made sure to note which is which!) and then the facia. 

Next, it is easier if the fridge door is removed by removing the screw in the top hinge. Inside the fridge are four plugs hiding screws that hold the body in place. Once the screws are out, you can slide the fridge towards you. It needs moving out by about 15cm to gain access to the selector unit.