Sprinter Electrical Problem solved for American Red Cross

The computers, CB radio and power outlets stopped working. In other words, this Mercedes Sprinter had a serious electrical problem. This happened, while the American Red Cross van was in Washington state. In an effort to fix, 3 different shops had looked at the ERV. As a result,  no one was able to solve the problem. To clarify, ERV stands for Emergency Response Vehicle. Unfortunately, the vehicle made its’ way across the United States with limited functionality. Luckily, a few people had suggested ENORMIS Mobile Specialties in Erie, Pa to get the electrical system repaired.

So, The American Red Cross contacted the team at ENORMIS Mobile Specialties . Obviously, they needed help in diagnosing an electrical problem. The Red Cross had converted this Mercedes Sprinter into an Emergency Response Vehicle (ERV). They did this, by adding desk space and computer workstations. But, those need USB and 120 volt power outlets. Which, they also added.

Sprinter Electrical Problem Traced Down and Diagnosed

Our technicians uncovered a compromised spot in the wiring.

The new inverter was securely bolted to the van wall.

The new Samlex controller was conveniently mounted amongst the other electronic controls.

The interior of the Sprinter van had been modified.

The hole in the old inverter that our technicians found to be part of the problem.

Jerry, a Red Cross Emergency Response Team leader contacted us.  After listening to him talk about the issues with the van, Doug immediately scheduled a diagnostic appointment. The van arrived at ENORMIS. So, Mike Macaluso and Ken Whiteman  got to work tracing the electrical wiring. On a side note, Ken is one of our MECP-Certified technicians. After taking a look, they found several issues with the installation.

At some point, a hole had been drilled in the top of the inverter. As a result, metal shavings were rattling around loose inside the unit.  As a result, it had shorted out one of the filtering capacitors. Not only that, but further research showed an actual 120v wiring short in the back of the Sprinter. That means, some of the copper wiring had worn through the insulation. Because of that, the exposed wiring was shorting directly to the chassis of the vehicle!

MECP Technician Makes Electrical Repairs

As a result,  Ken removed some of the cabinets and shelving from the rear of the vehicle. This was done in an effort to run new wiring to the outlet. So, as you can imagine, Ken made darn sure the new wiring was away from any sharp edges or objects!  All wiring was properly protected and secured. Furthermore, Ken also replaced the damaged inverter with a new Samlex SAM-3000-12 unit. In the end, the system would be reliable and available for use when needed. As a final point, Ken tested the system before and after reassembling the interior, He did this to ensure it would be flawless.

Erie’s Automotive Electronic Repair Experts

The electrical repairs were completed. Doug called Jerry to let him know that their van was ready to go. Jerry was thrilled!  ENORMIS was able to help get this crucially important vehicle back on the road and operating to its full capacity. If you have electrical problems with your vehicle, drop by ENORMIS Mobile Specialties in Erie. We can save you a lot of time and money. That’s because, we will actually find the problem! We don’t guess. In the end, we will  ensure that your vehicle is repaired reliably and properly. For more information or to schedule a diagnostic appointment, give us a call or send our team and e-mail.