Troubleshooting :: Frozen Beverage :: Machine Controls
Introduction
Sometimes, it can be difficult to determine if the mechanical controls are functioning properly, especially with frozen product in the machine. As a general recommendation, we encourage customers to perform the Controls Verification steps in the FB: Viscosity Controls article with a clean machine and liquid product to eliminate as many variables as possible. If that is not possible, the below troubleshooting steps will also verify the controls as well as determine if any components have failed and which components need replacing. If the machine has only one primary compressor for both the cylinder and hopper, it is recommended to perform the below steps with the machine completely empty of product, the doors off and all beaters and wearable parts removed from the machine.
Troubleshooting Steps
Note: For machines with a light-box, or an overhead design, the light-box or standby indicator will illuminate blue.
Solution: If the Standby button does not come on or the standby button is broken or sticky, the standby button needs to be replaced and is likely causing issues.
Solution: If the Standby button does not turn off, or the light is always illuminated, the standby button needs to be replaced and is likely causing issues.
Solution: If the motor does not turn on, or the motor direction is rotating the wrong way, please see the FB: Troubleshooting Motor article to further diagnose.
Note: In smaller machines without an auxiliary compressor, a solenoid controls the cooling to the cylinders. The compressor may already be running to cool the hoppers if the hopper temperature is greater than 42F (5C). In subsequent steps, you should verify the solenoid is opening/closing when the steps refer to the compressor turning on/off respectively.
Solution: If the compressor shuts off within the 30-60 seconds, or does not turn on at all, please see the FB: Troubleshooting Compressor article to further diagnose.
Solution: If the compressor does not shut off, there is likely an issue with the Torque Switch, wiring, or potentially the control board. Please verify wiring per wiring diagram located inside the machine. Verify wiring to control board is good and there are no broken wires or pins/crimps. With machine power OFF, unplug and re-plug in the large ribbon cable to ensure proper seating. Use an Ohmmeter to verify switch functionality, and verify switch engages and closes at the right location. If wiring and switch are good, please see the FB: Troubleshooting Control Board article for further instructions.
Solution: If motor does not turn on, there is likely an issue with the Draw Switch, wiring, or potentially the control board. Please verify wiring per wiring diagram located inside the machine. Verify wiring to control board is good and there are no broken wires or pins/crimps. Use Ohmmeter to verify switch functionality, and verify switch engages at the right location. If wiring and switch are good, please see the FB: Troubleshooting Control Board article for further instructions.