Ravenheat RSF84ET main burner won't light

[SR]

Fan / pump OK, all voltages OK as per the fault-finding flowchart. Pilot lights but main burner will only light if gas valve sharply tapped with screwdriver / hammer. When the main burner cuts-off once operating temperature is reached- the gas valve needs a knock again to re-light main burner.

(Also- if the ceramic insulation is cracked on the ignition electrode- am I correct in assuming that the pilot wouldn't light? (to settle an argument))

 

[Slugbabydotcom]

New gas valve required.

It started when honeywell changed their production of these valves to China. I think before that they were made in the Netherlands.

Usually if the ceramic is cracked it will arc to the assembly instead of 'pilot ignition area' So although what you say is generally correct it really does depend where the crack is.