Forum Discussion

rv7plt's avatar
rv7plt
Explorer
Feb 04, 2016

50A Power Cable Coming Apart

The plug on the end of my 50A power cable has separated from the cable. This is the end that connects to the power box. This cable is only two years old. It still works fine but the gap is about 3/16" and I can see the wires inside of the cable. I have never put any stress on this cable.It looks like the rubber outer casing of the cable was not properly attached to the plug. Has anyone else run across this problem?
I can seal the gap with gorilla tape but wondering if it is possible to have it repaired. Any inputs appreciated. Guess this is another example of sub par Chinese manufacturing.

John in Fl
Seeking Advice

19 Replies

Show More
  • Goostoff's avatar
    Goostoff
    Explorer
    Feb 05, 2016
    Mine been that way for years too. I never give it a second thought
  • time2roll's avatar
    time2roll
    Nomad
    Feb 05, 2016
    Chris Bryant wrote:
    You can stretch the sheathing- lay it out in the sun, start at the coach end, secure it and "massage" the sheathing (basically pulling it- use gloves). Then seal with Goop.
    It's easier to do than describe.
    +1 on this. Used JB Weld to hold mine in once stretched back into place.
    Been good at least five years now. (30a cord)
  • tatest's avatar
    tatest
    Explorer II
    Feb 05, 2016
    Not 50 amp, but 30, but the problem is still the same. OEM plugs with molded rubber covers don't stay attached for very long, clamp-on plugs might last a bit longer. The cable itself should last forever, plugs get replaced periodically, if you don't pull them off you'll eventually burn the blades.

    Over 10 years I am on my third plug for the original cable, and I now carry its replacement in my parts kit, along with stuff like fuses, a spare cap for the water connection, and a spare plug for the water heater.
  • RoyB's avatar
    RoyB
    Explorer II
    Feb 04, 2016
    Try what Chris Bryant says. You can work back a good three or four inches if you start working the outer part of the cable at the other end... Then apply the goop or glue to seal it in place once you get it inside the plug assy... I've had to this to my large cables a couple of times over the years...

    Roy Ken
  • the_bear_II's avatar
    the_bear_II
    Explorer
    Feb 04, 2016
    beemerphile1 wrote:
    Mine has been that way for years. It is the outer insulating sheath shrinking but you are seeing the individual insulation underneath, it is still safe.


    X2
  • beemerphile1's avatar
    beemerphile1
    Explorer
    Feb 04, 2016
    Mine has been that way for years. It is the outer insulating sheath shrinking but you are seeing the individual insulation underneath, it is still safe.
  • Sam_Spade's avatar
    Sam_Spade
    Explorer
    Feb 04, 2016
    Unless that point is exposed to the weather or subject to friction, all you need to do is fill the gap.....or not worry about it at all. The inside wires still have more than sufficient insulation unless stressed for some reason.

    Now.....if you can see bare copper, that's a whole different matter and the plug needs to be re-done; replaced probably.
  • Chris_Bryant's avatar
    Chris_Bryant
    Explorer II
    Feb 04, 2016
    You can stretch the sheathing- lay it out in the sun, start at the coach end, secure it and "massage" the sheathing (basically pulling it- use gloves). Then seal with Goop.
    It's easier to do than describe.
  • Old-Biscuit's avatar
    Old-Biscuit
    Explorer III
    Feb 04, 2016
    Buy a replacement 50A male plug and redo your cord.

    Insulation has shrunk back...happens with that black rubber


    Marinco 50A plug....LINK

About RV Tips & Tricks

Looking for advice before your next adventure? Look no further.25,164 PostsLatest Activity: Sep 18, 2025