Forum Discussion

joezuki's avatar
joezuki
Explorer
Apr 04, 2016

Converter & transfer switch problems

Can anyone tell me why I have a buzzing/hissing noise coming from my converter when there is no load on it? When I turn on at least 2 light the noise goes away. It's in a 2000 Southwind and it's a Inteli Power 9100 model PD-9155.

The second question is while plugged into shore power if I start my generator my transfer switch will kick in and switch to the generator side but when I shutdown the generator sometimes it won't switch back unless I tap lightly on the breaker panel housing. I stumbled upon this issue look for the buzzing noise mentioned above.

Thank you for your help
  • I've used electronics spray Fader Lubricant on balky transfer switch relays. Unplug before you do this.
  • Second question; Your transfer switch is mounted behind breaker panel. It is failing. when you tap on breaker panel the switch will move to the shore power position, you can buy an aftermarket transfer switch and mount it on the floor or wall near the breaker panel easier than fooling with removing the old switch. You can also try cleaning and lubricating the old switch but it is an effort in frustration.
  • I've heard of things like the first problem due to the variable speed fan circuitry interacting badly with some fans that PD used at low power (and hence temperature) operation; the control circuit provided too low of a power to the fan motor or something like that. Some here were able to fix that based on advice from PD. At any rate, they generally have quite decent customer support, so calling them would be my suggestion.

    Your transfer switch is sticking, which you already kind of know. It has one or two mechanical relays/contactors in it, and for whatever reason they're not operating freely when they should. Most probably the best solution is to replace it, even though it might be possible to clean or lubricate the mechanism. (If you're switching the power under load, it's possible that it may be the contacts arcing a bit and welding themselves together slightly. It's not wise to switch under load if it can possibly be helped; this is generally hard on a switch.)

About Technical Issues

Having RV issues? Connect with others who have been in your shoes.24,194 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 29, 2025