I have some experience with reticulation systems, but only a small amount, so I can run diagnostics on broken systems, but can't figure out what the final solution is. I'd appreciate input from anyone who might know what I should do with this particular issue.
Here's a picture of the system along with a picture overlaying how it flows.
Overlay: Irrigation system consists of a Master valve/solenoid leading to Solenoids A, B, C, D respectively. The system is set up so that the pipe leads to A first, then offshoots to B, then C, then D. Solenoids are correctly wired to Master and Stations 1-4 on controller, except station 1 which had its black wire come lose from its connection. System was completely buried in sand with no retic box over the top for protection.
Initial Problem: Sudden onset - Station 1 (Sol A) always comes on, regardless of which Station is currently on on the controller. Pattern as follows:
Controller Station ON - Actual Station running
Station 1 - Station 1
Station 2 - Station 1
Station 3 - Station 1 and 3
Station 4 - Station 1
Observation: Loud rumbling/vibrations felt in system when Station 1 is running. Releasing the pressure valve on Solenoid 1 stops the rumbling.
Diagnostic 1: All stations were carefully rewired to ensure there were no faults and all connections were correct. Result: No change, same problem occuring.
Diagnostic 2: Pressure valve on Solenoid 1 is opened and Station 2 is switched on. Result: Station 2 now works correctly
Diagnostic 3: Pressure valve on Solenoid 1 is opened and Station 3 is switched on. Result: Station 3 now works correctly
Diagnostic 4: Pressure valve on Solenoid 1 is opened and Station 4 is switched on. Result: No station comes on.
Diagnostic 5: Attempted to open main valve on Solenoid 1, valve is completely stuck and unable to open. Attempted to open other valves with same result, all stuck shut.
Diagnostic 6: Switched Solenoid A with Solenoid B Result: Station 2 now dominates the other stations (Replace Station 1 with Station 2 in the above Initial Problem.)
Observation: Solenoid valve A is dominating the other solenoids when any station is switched on. Releasing the pressure valve on solenoid A fixes the domination problem. Solenoid D will not come on no matter what happens in the system.
Diagnosis: Unknown error in Solenoid A - Could be dirt trapped in the valve keeping it open? Can't open the valve to clean it. Unknown error in Solenoid D - Will try switching with a new solenoid to see if it fixes the problem.
If anyone has any input on what I might have missed, or if I've made any mistakes, etc. I'd really appreciate the help.
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