Complete repair guide for the Forest River Impression – Furnace Igniter & Control Board Replacement. Follow these steps to diagnose and fix the issue yourself.
Parts & Tools You’ll Need
- Suburban/Atwood RV furnace replacement unit
- Furnace igniter electrode assembly
- Furnace sail switch
- Furnace circuit board / control board
- Furnace high-limit switch
- Furnace blower motor (12V DC)
- Propane/CO combo detector alarm
- Digital multimeter (auto-ranging)
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Step-by-Step Repair Guide
Step 1: Diagnose Furnace Ignition Failure
Start by turning on your RV furnace and listening for the blower motor to engage; if you hear clicking but no ignition or flame, your igniter electrode or control board likely needs replacement. Use your digital multimeter to test for 12V DC power at the igniter assembly—if no voltage is present, the control board may be faulty. Turn off all power to your furnace at the main disconnect switch and ensure your propane valve is closed before proceeding with any repairs.
Step 2: Remove Furnace Access Panel
Locate your Forest River Impression furnace unit, typically found in the basement or equipment bay, and remove the access panel by unscrewing the fasteners that hold it in place. Take a photo or video of the wiring configuration before disconnecting anything, as this will help you during reassembly. Carefully disconnect all wire harnesses from the furnace—label each connector with tape to ensure proper reconnection later.
Step 3: Disconnect Old Igniter Assembly
Locate the furnace igniter electrode assembly, which is usually a ceramic or metal component near the burner area, and carefully disconnect its wire connector from the control board. Note the exact positioning and orientation of the igniter tip in relation to the burner flame pattern, as this alignment is critical for proper ignition. Gently remove any mounting brackets or fasteners holding the igniter in place, being careful not to damage the ceramic tip.
Step 4: Install New Igniter Electrode
Position your new furnace igniter electrode assembly in the exact location and angle of the original, ensuring the ceramic tip is properly aligned with the burner area. Secure the igniter with its mounting brackets and fasteners, tightening them firmly but not excessively to avoid cracking the ceramic. Reconnect the wire harness to the new igniter, ensuring the connection is snug and free of corrosion.
Step 5: Replace Furnace Control Board
Carefully remove the old control board from its mounting location, disconnecting all wire harnesses and noting their positions with labeled tape for reference. Install the new furnace circuit board in the same location, securing it with the original mounting hardware. Reconnect all wire harnesses to the new control board, matching each connector to the labels you created, and double-check that all connections are fully seated and secure.
Step 6: Verify Furnace Safety Components
Inspect your furnace’s sail switch, high-limit switch, and blower motor to ensure they are functioning properly and making good electrical contact. Test each component with your digital multimeter to confirm continuity and proper voltage readings according to your furnace’s specifications. If any safety component shows signs of wear or corrosion, replace it now to ensure your heating system operates safely and reliably.
Step 7: Test Complete Furnace System
Close all access panels and reconnect power to your furnace, then turn on the propane supply and set your thermostat to call for heat. Listen for the blower to start, then watch for ignition spark at the electrode and flame establishment at the burner within 5-10 seconds. Allow the furnace to run for several minutes, then verify that your propane/CO combo detector alarm shows no alerts, and check that warm air is flowing from all vents.
Recommended Parts
| Part | Link |
|---|---|
| Suburban/Atwood RV furnace replacement unit | View on Amazon |
| Furnace igniter electrode assembly | View on Amazon |
| Furnace sail switch | View on Amazon |
| Furnace circuit board / control board | View on Amazon |
| Furnace high-limit switch | View on Amazon |
| Furnace blower motor (12V DC) | View on Amazon |
| Propane/CO combo detector alarm | View on Amazon |
| Digital multimeter (auto-ranging) | View on Amazon |