Electrical troubleshooting sample question #4

Troubleshooting Problem:

Use the wiring diagram shown to answer the questions below:

Problem: Everything in the system seems to work correctly, except the Pump (and associated indicating lamp) does not energize in AUTO mode (when SW6 is in Down Position). 

Assignment: Highlight all portions of the electrical wiring diagram shown that 'might' cause this scenario.

Scroll down for hypothetical solution and walk-through discussion.  

********************************************************************************

Solutions / Explanation: 

On this sample exercise (like the others), we use the Orion 7-step troubleshooting form to guide the process of fault-finding. 

And once again, the value of symptom recognition and analysis pays off (as it does in the field). 

Since 'everything except AUTO mode of Pump and PL16 works fine' and that neither the Pump nor PL16 works when SW6 is in AUTO position - we can conclude that the fault is in the path between the Auto contact of SW6 and TB57. 

In short - the fault must be in the section highlighted below:  

Once we have identified the possible faulty sections (step 3), we move onto pinpointing the fault (in step 4). 

 Then, we definitively PROVED the fault per step 5 and performed Failure Analysis (step 6) and Retest procedures (step 7) as shown below. 

Using a system like the Orion 7-step method greatly improves troubleshooting flow. 

For a shop manager trying to verify and build skills of technicians and/or trying to reduce amount of guessing, part-swapping, and other bad practices, written documentation helps track and prove the logic flow path, and can be a great tool for identifying issues. 

We focus heavily on the actual logical approach during our Basic Electrical Troubleshooting courses. Sure - sometimes a quick W.A.G. (wild anonymous guess) might produce a lucky quick result - but over time, the 'WAGGERS' will not succeed like the logical troubleshooters and will often add new problems. 

If you would like to download and customize these forms for your specific needs, download them at this link. 

Orion - 7-step TS Forms 

These scenarios are meant to induce thought of logic and hopefully spur learning and improvements. Some of these samples are very similar to scenarios that students troubleshoot in our Electrical Troubleshooting classes.  

Reach out today if you'd like us to deliver a custom version of this course at your facility or see our upcoming schedule to register for a public offering of our 3-day Basic Electricity & Electrical Troubleshooting course.