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laknox's avatar
laknox
Nomad
Dec 22, 2017

Need recommendations

Going from 30a to 50a on the new FW, I'm needing a couple recs for some 50a stuff. First, I'd like to put an elbow on the shore cord connection so would like a double-locking pigtail/elbow. Just want to reduce strain on the locking plug on the side of the trailer. Second, I need a 25' extension cord for plugging in at my house. I let my 30a extension go with my old FW and am regretting it, especially as I only have 1 A/C and that cord would have worked well. At the same time, I'd much rather have the 50a cord "for the future" if I ever do add the 2nd A/C. I've got one anaconda from the factory, so am looking at a "soft" cord that's much easier to coil.

Second, I'd like a good remote digital battery monitor so I don't have to depend on the idiot lights on the panel.

Third, I've seen the simple, plug-in 110v meters, but was wondering if there are any that will at least give you an alarm for under/over voltage. I plan on getting some sort of surge protection, and really want a portable vs a hardwired, but the usual one that people recommend, Progressive Industries, is NOT getting very good marks on their latest versions, with many people complaining about water intrusion and, on the 50a versions, lack of clearance for cords with convenience handles. While I wouldn't mind a hardwired unit, I'd be messing with an under-warranty unit, and I'd like to have something =now=.

TIA for any tips/info.

Lyle

12 Replies

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  • ScottG's avatar
    ScottG
    Nomad
    Dec 22, 2017
    I installed the PI 50A hard-wired unit in our new TT. I'm not concerned about warranty issues because I see no way they can connect the EMS to any kind of failure and I guess mostly, I'm just not worried about those kind of things.
    Having said that, I would take a close look at the Surge Guard unit next time. The PI units display is straight out of the 80's and its bright red LED's only show one parameter at a time. The display unit has a terrible viewing angle so must be mounted close to head level to be able to read it. The SG uses a modern LCD with everything available at a glance. Also, there's the fact that PI was bought out and reports of poor warranty support are cropping up all too regularly.
    If a SG does everything the PI does, I would go with it instead.

    All JMHO.

    Scott
  • Second_Chance's avatar
    Second_Chance
    Explorer II
    Dec 22, 2017
    The 90 degree elbow is an excellent idea - really reduces stress on the connector and cable.

    Installation of a hard-wired unit would not affect your RV warranty and would be a much better option than portable/exterior. The EMSs are MUCH more than just "surge protection." Their most important functions are protecting you from the more common under- (most frequent) and over-voltage situations as well as ground issues, etc. Our PI 50 amp hard-wired unit has a remote display that tells me the voltage and amp draw on each leg. It has saved us thousands of dollars in appliance replacement/repairs in the almost 2.5 years we've been full-time. Unless your converter/charger fails or you leave the rig unplugged for long periods, a separate 12V monitor for the house battery is unnecessary.

    Rob

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