If your FrightProps solenoid valve is not functioning as it should check these things:

  • Make sure air from the compressor is going into "P".  If "P" is not labeled as such on your solenoid valve look here for a diagram
  • Make sure at least 20psi is being supplied to the solenoid valve from your compressor.  The solenoid valve will not operate correctly with less than 20psi.  Further, you will not see anything inside the valve move when power is applied - this is normal.

Note: Blowing into the valve does not work.  Your lungs do not produce enough pressure. 

  • Press the manual operator on the side of the valve.  This is normally a small silver or blue button.  Pressing it should activate the valve when at least 20psi is supplied.  Sometimes multiple pressing of this button will clear debris and allow the valve to function correctly.
  • Check that the voltage of the valve matches the voltage you are sending it.  Match the power source to that of your solenoid valve (12V DC, 24V DC, or 110V AC).  DC solenoids will require a DC power supply, AC solenoids require an AC power cable.  The solenoid will be permanently damaged if you supply it with improper voltage.

    solenoid_power_id_top

    solenoid_power_id_top
    Required voltage may be stamped into the plastic on the top of the solenoid Sometimes the required voltage is written on the side of the solenoid
  • Do you have a DC solenoid and can't figure out which wire is positive (+) and which is negative (-)?  All of our DC solenoids are non-polarized.  This means that it does not matter which wire is connected to (+) and (-), they are interchangeable.  So if your solenoid has two wires of the same color it's fine to assume either one is (+) or (-).  Note that even if your solenoid has a red and a black wire they are still interchangeable.
  • Are you using a controller of some sort to turn the solenoid valve on? Temporarily remove that and try to power the solenoid valve directly.  If this works then you have a problem with your controller or controller wiring.
  • Is your solenoid extremely hot to the touch?   Reason: The solenoids should not be left on.  They should only be energized to activate the prop and then de-energized.  In order for your prop to function the way you want it to you might have to swap the two airlines going to the cylinder (5-ported 4-way valves) or modify the valve for "normally open" operation (3-way valves).