We're still dealing with assorted Dometic 3-way fridge issues, too numerous to list here. However one of the most frustrating and vexing issues is getting the propane flame lit using the electric starter. Really since day one it has always taken many, many attempts to get the flame lit using the starter. I can count on one hand the number of times we have pulled into a campsite and had the flame light the first time. (As opposed to the electric start on every BBQ I have ever used... which is first time, every time.)
We have learned for whatever reason that it helps to wait at least 15 minutes before trying, maybe the propane has to "settle." I limit myself to 6-7 attempts to spark it with the starter, then wait 10-15 minutes before trying again. Sometimes it will take 25-30 attempts before it finally lights over the course of an hour. Needless to say the stuff (beer!) in the fridge is getting warmer that whole time especially in the California heat and/or desert.
On my OEM install there is a perforated screen at the bottom of the vent stack where the flame is. I assume the screen is for wind purposes. Behind that screen I've noticed that there is a 3/4" or so port with a swinging door. Would I be able to use a long neck lighter through there to bypass the electric starter and start the flame with a flame? (That would require cutting a small hole in the windscreen but easy.) Would the fridge object to being lit in this fashion?
Any solution would help reduce my Dometic hate by an amount proportional to how much cooler the adult beverages will be coming out of the fridge. We have chosen not to drive with the flame lit and we would rather not replace the fridge with superior alternatives quite yet.
Thanks!
daverave