Post by vikx on Feb 26, 2015 11:03:58 GMT -8
ELECTRICAL DOS AND DON’TS in your VINTAGE TRAILER
Shore Power:
Most Vintage trailers have a 15 amp inlet. It is safe for the 110 lights and few outlets. The entire trailer is limited to 15 amps.
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/53634851@N03/34888562163/in/dateposted-public/" title="15 Amp Inlet (1)"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4131/34888562163_7e1f043737_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="15 Amp Inlet (1)"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
The inlet above accepts a normal extension cord. Always insert the cord with care and never force it. Damage to the tines can result in a very dark camper.
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/53634851@N03/35658728476/in/dateposted-public/" title="15 Amp Inlet (2)"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4229/35658728476_9b3b235347_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="15 Amp Inlet (2)"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Extension cords should be at least 14/2 with ground and no more than 25 feet. If you must use a longer cord, it should be 12/2, never longer than 50 feet.
Use one high amperage item at a time. This means you can NOT run an electric heater and a coffee maker at the same time... Operating two items with a heating element or motor can overload the system.
Microwaves should be 750 watts or LESS. Never use a higher wattage microwave in a 15 amp trailer.
One way to protect your trailer wiring is to plug large draw items in separately. For instance, it is easy to power an Air Conditioner with a dedicated cord, bypassing the trailer electrical.
If your trailer has a 30 amp cord or inlet, you must be directly plugged into a 30 AMP RECEPTACLE to utilize the extra amperage. An adapter reduces the amperage to 15.
Below are several adapters. The triangle shaped adapters are particularly prone to melting. The larger round adapters are much safer, as is the corded one.
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/53634851@N03/35567310531/in/dateposted-public/" title="Adapters (1)"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4136/35567310531_d865ca1eef_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Adapters (1)"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Inside the Trailer:
Outlets should be inspected for cracks and scorch marks. Loose connections can cause very hot wires. In other words, if you don’t feel a bit of resistance when plugging in, there is a possibility of arcing and heat. Such receptacles should be replaced by a qualified electrician.
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/53634851@N03/34888561953/in/dateposted-public/" title="Broken Outlet"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4286/34888561953_ae9738484c_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Broken Outlet"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Trailer boxes can be very shallow, making repairs difficult. Great care should be taken when working with original wiring. The electrician should be familiar with vintage trailer wiring and boxes.
Do not overload the receptacles!! It is not safe to plug two appliances into the same outlet. Remember, a heater draws 13 amps by itself, that’s 87% capacity. ONE ITEM AT A TIME.
30 amp systems are capable of powering more than one item at the same time, providing the cord is plugged directly into a 30 amp receptacle. Always use different circuits when operating two high amp items to prevent overloading. (30 amp trailers have at least 2 circuits with individual breakers for protection) It is possible to use a high wattage microwave in a 30 amp trailer as above.
If a breaker is tripping, you are overloading the system. Breakers exist for SAFETY. It is paramount to discover the trip reason and fix the problem! Never substitute a higher amp breaker for a tripping breaker. A 15 amp breaker protects 14ga wiring; upping the amperage to 20 will allow heating of the wires and cause fires.
Note: Breakers that have a history of tripping can become weak. Replacement may be necessary.
Lighting:
Vintage trailers usually have two or three 110 lights. Always inspect the fixtures carefully for scorched wiring and black marks where mounted. This is caused by incandescent high wattage bulbs that generate too much heat. Repair and re-insulate before use.
Here is a light that was very hot; note the cracked wire insulation and discolored ceramic base:
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/53634851@N03/35567309861/in/dateposted-public/" title="Trailer Lights (20)"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4011/35567309861_233075ef8a_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Trailer Lights (20)"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Use fluorescent or LED bulbs. They are cooler and will not overheat wiring or vintage fixtures.
If the fixture has a single outlet, use for low amperage items ONLY. (radio, TV, small fan, extra light, etc.) These outlets do not have the capacity to operate anything with a heating element. To do so will cause overheating.
Safety:
Inspect plugs, cords and attachments before travel. Look for discolored blades on the plug, pulled or frayed wiring and insure that the cord is firmly anchored near the trailer J box. (where the cord is wired into the trailer)
Blinking of lights or bulbs signifies loose connections. Repairs must be made to prevent arcing and fires. This can be as simple as a loose bulb or replacing the entire fixture.
Inspect the campground receptacle. A polarity tester will determine if it is wired correctly. Worn out receptacles will cause arcing and can damage your trailer plug.. If multiple trailers are utilizing the same power pedestal, limit your use accordingly.
Overloading can cause a FIRE:
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/53634851@N03/35658728126/in/dateposted-public/" title="Burned out"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4261/35658728126_268df7c7d6_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Burned out"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Shore Power:
Most Vintage trailers have a 15 amp inlet. It is safe for the 110 lights and few outlets. The entire trailer is limited to 15 amps.
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/53634851@N03/34888562163/in/dateposted-public/" title="15 Amp Inlet (1)"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4131/34888562163_7e1f043737_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="15 Amp Inlet (1)"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
The inlet above accepts a normal extension cord. Always insert the cord with care and never force it. Damage to the tines can result in a very dark camper.
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/53634851@N03/35658728476/in/dateposted-public/" title="15 Amp Inlet (2)"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4229/35658728476_9b3b235347_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="15 Amp Inlet (2)"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Extension cords should be at least 14/2 with ground and no more than 25 feet. If you must use a longer cord, it should be 12/2, never longer than 50 feet.
Use one high amperage item at a time. This means you can NOT run an electric heater and a coffee maker at the same time... Operating two items with a heating element or motor can overload the system.
Microwaves should be 750 watts or LESS. Never use a higher wattage microwave in a 15 amp trailer.
One way to protect your trailer wiring is to plug large draw items in separately. For instance, it is easy to power an Air Conditioner with a dedicated cord, bypassing the trailer electrical.
If your trailer has a 30 amp cord or inlet, you must be directly plugged into a 30 AMP RECEPTACLE to utilize the extra amperage. An adapter reduces the amperage to 15.
Below are several adapters. The triangle shaped adapters are particularly prone to melting. The larger round adapters are much safer, as is the corded one.
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/53634851@N03/35567310531/in/dateposted-public/" title="Adapters (1)"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4136/35567310531_d865ca1eef_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Adapters (1)"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Inside the Trailer:
Outlets should be inspected for cracks and scorch marks. Loose connections can cause very hot wires. In other words, if you don’t feel a bit of resistance when plugging in, there is a possibility of arcing and heat. Such receptacles should be replaced by a qualified electrician.
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/53634851@N03/34888561953/in/dateposted-public/" title="Broken Outlet"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4286/34888561953_ae9738484c_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Broken Outlet"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Trailer boxes can be very shallow, making repairs difficult. Great care should be taken when working with original wiring. The electrician should be familiar with vintage trailer wiring and boxes.
Do not overload the receptacles!! It is not safe to plug two appliances into the same outlet. Remember, a heater draws 13 amps by itself, that’s 87% capacity. ONE ITEM AT A TIME.
30 amp systems are capable of powering more than one item at the same time, providing the cord is plugged directly into a 30 amp receptacle. Always use different circuits when operating two high amp items to prevent overloading. (30 amp trailers have at least 2 circuits with individual breakers for protection) It is possible to use a high wattage microwave in a 30 amp trailer as above.
If a breaker is tripping, you are overloading the system. Breakers exist for SAFETY. It is paramount to discover the trip reason and fix the problem! Never substitute a higher amp breaker for a tripping breaker. A 15 amp breaker protects 14ga wiring; upping the amperage to 20 will allow heating of the wires and cause fires.
Note: Breakers that have a history of tripping can become weak. Replacement may be necessary.
Lighting:
Vintage trailers usually have two or three 110 lights. Always inspect the fixtures carefully for scorched wiring and black marks where mounted. This is caused by incandescent high wattage bulbs that generate too much heat. Repair and re-insulate before use.
Here is a light that was very hot; note the cracked wire insulation and discolored ceramic base:
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/53634851@N03/35567309861/in/dateposted-public/" title="Trailer Lights (20)"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4011/35567309861_233075ef8a_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Trailer Lights (20)"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
Use fluorescent or LED bulbs. They are cooler and will not overheat wiring or vintage fixtures.
If the fixture has a single outlet, use for low amperage items ONLY. (radio, TV, small fan, extra light, etc.) These outlets do not have the capacity to operate anything with a heating element. To do so will cause overheating.
Safety:
Inspect plugs, cords and attachments before travel. Look for discolored blades on the plug, pulled or frayed wiring and insure that the cord is firmly anchored near the trailer J box. (where the cord is wired into the trailer)
Blinking of lights or bulbs signifies loose connections. Repairs must be made to prevent arcing and fires. This can be as simple as a loose bulb or replacing the entire fixture.
Inspect the campground receptacle. A polarity tester will determine if it is wired correctly. Worn out receptacles will cause arcing and can damage your trailer plug.. If multiple trailers are utilizing the same power pedestal, limit your use accordingly.
Overloading can cause a FIRE:
<a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/53634851@N03/35658728126/in/dateposted-public/" title="Burned out"><img src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4261/35658728126_268df7c7d6_z.jpg" width="640" height="480" alt="Burned out"></a><script async src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
