Forum Discussion

Phydeauxman's avatar
Phydeauxman
Explorer
Jul 31, 2014

Testing 50 AMP CG power before connecting

After doing extensive reading here on the forums I ordered a PI 50AMP hardwired unit for my new 5th wheel. Now I am looking at what I should get to test the CG connection BEFORE plugging the RV into the pole. For 30AMP service it seems pretty easy that I can use the two items below to test the pole:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BRFTH6/ref=s9_simh_co_p422_d0_i4?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=left-3&pf_rd_r=0J843AYVZ3Z6GFVZDECD&pf_rd_t=3201&pf_rd_p=1774864582&pf_rd_i=typ01

http://www.amazon.com/Camco-55233-Electrical-PowerGrip-Adapter/dp/B00192QB3I/ref=pd_bxgy_auto_text_y

What would I use to test a 50AMP pole connection? Since our trailer has 50AMP service and my wife is going to want to use both ACs, I am sure if it is available we are going to use the 50AMP service.
  • WMMitchell81554's avatar
    WMMitchell81554
    Explorer
    Jul 31, 2014
    I have the same unit you have. EMSHW50C if the campground power is off spec, the EMS will not allow connection. I have plugged into power poles with bad ground, not connection. Low voltage, no connection. You made a good purchase.
  • Phydeauxman's avatar
    Phydeauxman
    Explorer
    Jul 31, 2014
    I may have not been clear in my original post. The unit I bought is the EMSHW50C which is hard wired and does have the remote display. From what I have read here on the forums a lot of people say...even with this unit you should check the pole BEFORE plugging in the RV. I am new to camping so I have to rely on the experiences of others and I want to make sure I am as prepared as possible to protect my investment. I see some people even add the autoformer to this equation. Not sure if I need that yet or not.
  • Jim-Linda's avatar
    Jim-Linda
    Explorer II
    Jul 31, 2014
    Did you not get the remote readout? Call PI, I believe you can install one fairly easy.

    Jim
  • Phydeauxman's avatar
    Phydeauxman
    Explorer
    Jul 31, 2014
    wa8yxm wrote:
    I agree. You have basically two options, I will list both

    Turn OFF park breakers
    Plug in PI unit.. Turn on breakers and check display, IF it says, for example 240 volts.. TURN OFF BREAKERS

    if it says all is good Turn off breakers.. Plug RV into PI, turn on breakers.

    Option 2

    Turn off breakers, Plug RV into PI, Plug PI into Park.

    Turn on breakers, if there is a major problem it will refuse to connect.


    Only problem is...I bought the hardwired unit and not the portable. But thanks for the reply.
  • dons2346's avatar
    dons2346
    Explorer
    Jul 31, 2014
    Your PI will do all the testing needed to ensure that the power pedestal is wired correctly and that the voltage is within limits before ever allowing power to be applied to the coach.

    They are a "set it and forget it" piece of hardware and having it hardwired into the coach is even better in that you don't have to worry about it growing legs and walking off.
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    Jul 31, 2014
    I agree. You have basically two options, I will list both

    Turn OFF park breakers
    Plug in PI unit.. Turn on breakers and check display, IF it says, for example 240 volts.. TURN OFF BREAKERS

    if it says all is good Turn off breakers.. Plug RV into PI, turn on breakers.

    Option 2

    Turn off breakers, Plug RV into PI, Plug PI into Park.

    Turn on breakers, if there is a major problem it will refuse to connect.
  • tvman44's avatar
    tvman44
    Explorer
    Jul 31, 2014
    With the PI unit just plug in the power cord. There is a built in 15 second delay when you plug in and if power has a problem it will never connect the power to your RV. :) If you get the remote read out it will tell you what the problem is as well as monitor line voltage and current draw.

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