Replaced a dead solenoid, but the controller will not turn on the zone the solenoid controls, i can manually turn on the zone by opening the screw bellow valve at the top. but when i unscrew the and remove the solenoid the zone will not turn on. i can hear the plunger in the solenoid go on and off.

Your first option would be to try taking the valve apart and checking the diaphragy. Also try checking the wiring on the clock, you might have an issue with the clock not sending enough power, remember this, with a rainbird solenoid you need 24v to open the solenoid and 8 to 12 to keep it open. you can try testing the solenoid against a 9v battery to see if it is actually the solenoid. Use a voltmeter to test the wire slots. If those dont work then try running a spare piece of wire above ground from the clock to the valve and see if that works. If all else fails get a new valve, they are not that hard to put it, depending on what size they are, if it si residential its more then likely a 1 in, get 2 1 inch couplings 2 schedule 80 nipples and change it out.

MORE NEWS