Installing 2nd 30 amp 120vac circuit

Chris Bryant wrote:

MeandMyLabs wrote:
My question is, do I need to run a ground wire to the frame of the TH on my new entrance.

Yes.

Greetings,

Please forgive me. I am not really trying to "hitchhike" on the OP, let's just say I have my thumb out but really don;t want a ride. :B

Here's my situation. In my storage yard there is 110 volt, 15 amp (might be 20 amp) power available. What I did was fashion a 12 gauge (2 wire w/ground) extension cord to run from the source outlet to another INDEPENDENT outlet (GFI) I installed in a storage compartment in my 5th wheel. Plugged in to this INDEPENDENT outlet is the power cord for my Battery Tender.

I wanted to use the battery tender instead of my onboard converter for two reasons. One, I feel that the Battery Tender better suits my needs as it may be in use for months at a time (as it was in my garage when I used to remove the battery) and two, I just wanted the set-up to be totally independent of the 5th wheel's electrical system(s).

Additionally, I ran (in conduit) another 12 gauge extension (not hard wired, male plug on one end to a two socket wall outlet installed on the opposite side of the interior of the trailer. This gives me the option of taking power from the built in 30 amp system and if needed a second line (the 12 gauge 15 or 20 amp) can be added at the power post if I need extra power to run a small heater or perhaps a fan, as the case may be. The second extension cord would go to the added outlet and would not even be plugged in unless needed.

I see the posts that my additional line (cord) should be grounded to the trailer and trust me, I am not doubting the need. I just don't get it. If I was using an extension cord from another source to do some work on the trailer or something like that, it would never think of needing another ground other that the one in the cord.

Please educate me, I'm listening.

Thanks,

Robert
Huntington Beach, California