After much work on my Dometic, it cools well.  However, it is sometimes a
real bitch to get started, especially at higher elevations (10,000 ft.)
where I usually camp.   And sometimes it just goes out spontaneously for no
known reason.   A few days ago, I couldn�t get it going again in multiple
attempts, using everything I know about it.  Then � day later, with much
pumping and struggling, I got it started again.  The flame lights right
away, no problem, but it tends to go out as soon as I quit pumping.  I
already have cleaner the combustion box, replaced the nozzle, and blown out
the intake and exhaust hoses.

 

On this recent trip, once I finally got it going, it would usually stay lit
and cooling well for several days, though it always goes out right away if I
drive.

 

Also, in spite of cleaning and oiling it, the pump is very stiff, so it
literally wears me out keeping enough air pumped in there until it gets its
own draft going.

 

My questions: 

 

What would make the flame spontaneously go out, when there�s no movement,
disturbance or change?

Why would it be so hard to get the draft going so that it is
self-sustaining? 

I�m considering getting a 12 volt aquarium air pump to do that job for me,
for that first couple of minutes.  Has anyone tried that?

 

Thanks,

Paul