The igniter is an electronic device that sits on the top of the fridge.
It has a shielded cable that actually goes into the combustion chamber.
The cable, inside the combustion chamber is what provides the spark for
ignition.

In my case, that shielding, which is a braided fabric covering,
apparently was damaged (possibly in the removal or reinstallation of
the fridge), allowing for a spark to occur between the spark wire, and
other metal in the vicinity. This then caused the fabric to ignite,
which was the source of the smoke, etc.

So, in reality, all I really need is a new spark wiring (though I
suspect that won't be sold separately.)

 > How the heck did this happen? I've pulled my reefer and the combustion
 > chamber, the air inlet, and the exhaust outlet are all sealed from the
 > inside of the Vanagon. The only openings are at the reefer exhaust
port
 > on the outside.  I can't even imagine how a fire could get started
that
 > would cause black smoke to come out the back of the fridge.

Kim Brennan
86 Syncro. 91 Westy Syncro. 90 Tristar
Vienna VA. Sugar Grove WV.