Newmar Ventana – Furnace Igniter & Control Board Replacement

Newmar Ventana – Furnace Igniter & Control Board Replacement

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Complete repair guide for the Newmar Ventana – Furnace Igniter & Control Board Replacement. Follow these steps to diagnose and fix the issue yourself.

Parts & Tools You’ll Need

Step 1: Diagnose Furnace Ignition Failure

Start by checking whether your furnace igniter electrode is generating a spark when the thermostat calls for heat. Listen for a clicking sound at the igniter and use your digital multimeter set to DC voltage to test for 24V output at the control board terminals. If you’re getting no spark and no voltage, the issue is likely a failed igniter electrode or a faulty control board—both will require replacement.

Step 2: Disconnect Power and Propane Supply

Turn off the main power switch to your RV’s 12V DC system and shut off the propane supply at the tank valve, then wait 5 minutes for any residual gas to dissipate. Locate the furnace’s propane line connection (typically a 3/8-inch compression fitting) and disconnect it using two wrenches to prevent valve damage. Double-check that no power is reaching the furnace by testing with your multimeter at the main supply terminals.

Step 3: Remove Furnace Access Panel and Components

Unbolt the furnace access panel (usually 4–6 fasteners) and set it aside carefully, as internal baffles may be loose. Locate and photograph the wiring connections to the igniter electrode, sail switch, and control board before disconnection to ensure proper reassembly. Remove the old igniter electrode by unbolting the mounting bracket (typically a single 1/4-inch bolt) and gently pulling the ceramic insulator straight out.

Step 4: Install New Furnace Igniter Electrode

Slide the new furnace igniter electrode into the mounting bracket, ensuring the ceramic insulator sits flush and the electrode tip is positioned 1/8 to 3/16 inches from the burner flame path. Tighten the mounting bolt to 2–3 foot-pounds (hand-tight plus a quarter turn) to avoid cracking the ceramic. Verify that the igniter lead connector is clean and dry before reattaching it to the new electrode terminal.

Step 5: Replace Furnace Control Board

Disconnect all wiring harnesses from the old control board by carefully removing the spade connectors and documenting each connection with photos or a hand-drawn diagram. Unbolt the control board from its mounting bracket (usually 2–3 fasteners) and remove it from the furnace housing. Install the new furnace circuit board in the same orientation, secure it with fasteners, and reconnect all wiring harnesses in the exact positions documented, ensuring connectors are fully seated.

Step 6: Reconnect Propane Line and Verify Seal

Reattach the propane supply line to the furnace inlet using two wrenches, tightening the compression fitting to 12–15 foot-pounds without over-tightening. Apply a propane leak detector solution (or soapy water) around the connection and watch for bubbles with the propane valve open for 30 seconds. If any bubbles appear, turn off propane immediately, disconnect the fitting, clean the ferrule, and retry the connection with a fresh seal.

Step 7: Test Ignition and Monitor System Operation

Restore power to the 12V DC system and open the propane valve, then set your thermostat to heat mode and listen for a clicking spark at the igniter electrode followed by a soft whoosh of ignition within 5 seconds. Allow the furnace to run for 10 minutes and confirm that the blower motor activates within 30 seconds of ignition, that the sail switch functions, and that the high-limit switch holds steady. Use your Propane/CO combo detector alarm to verify no gas leaks or abnormal emissions, and check that the furnace cycles off normally when the desired temperature is reached.