Repair Your Original CCI Controls Pre-Tell 2 LP Detector in “Vintage” Coaches

I was rolling around for many years with the original CCI Controls Pre-Tell 2 LP detector that probably hasn't "worked" since we bought our rig in 2005. OK, it did keep the propane valve open, but I know it had lost its sense of smell (long before COVID-19).



Since it has always kept the propane valve open, I never much worried about it. In most cases, it just needs a new Figaro TGS 813 Doohickey (the technical name is combustible gas sensor) that you can buy online for about $10. It’s literally the “nose” of the detector. The hard steps in replacing it are (1) getting the case apart without breaking an old, possibly brittle plastic case, (2) desoldering the old sensor, and (3) soldering the new one on... without damaging the circuit board.



Recently, I was looking at replacing/upgrading the whole unit and found a guy in Kansas that repairs them for $100 (all-in including return shipping). I figured that was the path of least resistance… and cheaper than the new kits with a new solenoid. It was also much easier than replacing the solenoid and detector… not a plug-n-play fix. I installed my repaired detector in about 5 minutes and tested it with an unlit butane lighter... so THAT's how it's supposed to work.

I don't know when these units were phased out of our rigs, but if anyone else wants to get theirs fixed, here is Larry's information from an email he sent me after I contacted him. His note about NOT applying 12V to the old solenoid is important. When I measured the output voltage of the yellow wire on the detector that supplies the solenoid/valve, I only saw 2 volts... there must be a transformer on that circuit board, too.

"I can repair most problems with the Pretell II (7719) detectors. I will repair your detector and pay the return shipping for $100. Usually less than a week turn-around time, not including shipping time. One year warranty. Contact me at [email protected]. Be sure you don't apply 12 volts to the solenoid, as that will eventually destroy it. If you have any questions, let me know. You can reach me at 913 449 3865 (Cell) after 4.

Please send your unit with a check for $100.00 to:
Larry Sherwood
12454 S. Ortega Dr.
Olathe, KS 66062

Submitted by: Doug Poad