Clicking master relay

[Treekiwi]

Hey guys
Sometimes my master relay clicks/clacks a few times before fully engaging after turning the master switch on. It seems worse when temperatures are lower. Other times, no problem. Does this indicate a failing relay? Haven't looked yet to see if a diode is installed.
Cheers

 

[1bigdog]

Assuming you are referring to the master contractor, yes, it’s possible it’s going bad but start with the obvious and check if there is a loosening connection.

 

[avrojockey]

Does it click if you jump the contator manually, straight to ground, bypassing the master switch?

 

[rvbuilder2002]

Does it click if you jump the contator manually, straight from battery, bypassing the master switch?

Typically the master relay is activated with a switched ground source, not 12 V., So connecting with a test jumper to the + side of the battery will result in nothing happening, but the relay might be just fine.
If it works fine when you use a test jumper to connect the activation post directly to ground, it might be an indication that the master switch is failing or that there is a problem in the circuit that is sourcing the ground for the switch.

 

[Treekiwi]

Typically the master relay is activated with a switched ground source, not 12 V., So connecting with a test jumper to the + side of the battery will result in nothing happening, but the relay might be just fine.
If it works fine when you use a test jumper to connect the activation post directly to ground, it might be an indication that the master switch is failing or that there is a problem in the circuit that is sourcing the ground for the switch.

Thanks, I'll try that test. It's pretty inconsistent, sometimes it'll go weeks and many starts without doing it. Items connected directly through the master definitely flash off and on with the relay clicking, so it's connecting then disconnecting when it clicks.
Stephen

 

[avrojockey]

Typically the master relay is activated with a switched ground source, not 12 V., So connecting with a test jumper to the + side of the battery will result in nothing happening, but the relay might be just fine.
If it works fine when you use a test jumper to connect the activation post directly to ground, it might be an indication that the master switch is failing or that there is a problem in the circuit that is sourcing the ground for the switch.

Duh...Thanks Scott...edited