Desperate help needed

[Strollerbird]

We are due to go on our ****** allowance break and got the van out of storage We found we have a big problem
Every time we try to use the folding out step it trips the 12v electrics. Similarly when we operate the drawer unlocking mechanism, that trips the 12v as well.
The only thing that has changed is that we had a feindscreen replacement but I don’t see how that could cause it,
Any suggestions as to possible cause/ how easy this will be to track down

 

[Val54]

I take it nothing else on the 12v side is affected, lights fridge loo flush etc? If the drawer lock mech and step are on the same side if the van that suggests they could be sharing the same wiring path. I'd be looking for a bad earth connection or worst case some rodent wire chewing whilst in storage.

 

[myvanwy]

If its tripping a breaker or blowing a fuse, too much current flowing so could be seized or a short. A bad earth would not trip it. Good hunting.

 

[Val54]

If its tripping a breaker or blowing a fuse, too much current flowing so could be seized or a short. A bad earth would not trip it. Good hunting.

True, but a seized step wouldn't account for the drawer lock tripping as well. I smell a rat, well a mouse or two anyway. Need to trace the wiring back to the fuse etc.

 

[Pudsey Bear]

Use the cab doors to enter and exit the hab.

 

[gypo]

Can you look underneath and have a look if a mouse has been at it. Sounds like it to me.
Possibly chewed a 12v live that is now earthing out when you make it live with the step activated button

 

[st3v3]

When you say trip out, what exactly do you mean?

Are we sure the battery isn't flat?

 

[colinm]

When you say trip out, what exactly do you mean?

Are we sure the battery isn't flat?

I'll second this, make sure the battery is changed up, low voltage can cause high current which can trip the electric.

 

[maingate]

Regarding your electric step, just use an ordinary caravan step.

As for your drawers (ooer missus), do they not have a manual lock for a key?

If you are anywhere near (or passing Gateshead) I will give you a double step.

The automatic electric step is usually powered from the engine battery, not the hab. If you can get under the van and disconnect power from the step, try the drawer locking on its own and see the result. Alternately, do the same with the drawer if possible and try the step. It might help to pinpoint the problem.