SpudFiles

Guys, i need to figure this out fast. I need to trip a sprinkler valve in an irrigation setup. for some reason 18 v wont do it. It looks like it is 1.5" so possibly the solenoid takes more juice? anyways, would i achieve the same ends if i just unscrewed the solenoid itself. Would this release the pilot, open the diaphram, and turn on the sprinklers. And if so what are the chances of me being able to screw the solenoid back in? thanks guys

You should be ok doing that if you can manage to unscrew it. In a water setup, wont water come out of where the diaphragm was though. Chances are it's either a 24v solenoid or there's just a short circuit.
Unless it's glued in you should be able to screw it back no problem. Try phoning the company who made the valve if they have a support line.

THERE should be a little sliding thing where the solenoid is screwed on to turn it until its on ( override )

Unscrewing the solenoid should open the valve. You shouldn't have any problems screwing it back in because of the huge mechanical advantage the threads give your hand.

The valve may also have a vent screw. Look for an odd looking screw, might be plastic, might have a knurled head (instead of a philips or flathead or hex head).

I'm surprised 18V won't cycle the solenoid, it should. Either the 18V supply can't supply enough current or the solenoid has siezed up. A pair of fresh 9V batteries in series will source a couple amps, at least, which is probably more power than the 24V wall wart type supply normally used for these types of valves.

Might try smacking the solenoid a few times to see if you can get it unstuck.

Is there enough pressure to open up the valve?

Never mind guys, but thanks. I was planning a surprise for our high school's freshman picnic, but It got rained out.

That is just classic. Awesome. I hope you have a chance to pull it off later, and video the whole thing when you do...

LOL that is /would be awsome....good luck