Monitor panel upgrade

[ronfisherman]

I have been working on upgrading the monitor panel for my motorhome.
I installed digital meters for 12 VDC and 120 VAC. 120 VAC monitor has a switch to check both legs of 50 amp service.
Couple years ago I installed a See-Level monitor for tanks. While it was a good install. It was mounted below OEM panel. Plus I still had to look at the original lights. I finally took the original panel out and cut the circuit board out. Then installed the See-Level monitor where the old lights used to be.
I also have Magnum AGS (Generator Auto Start). It is mounted behind the monitor board. Made a easy to remove panel. That allows access to the AGS when need to make adjustments.
I used black King Starboard to do this mod. It cuts with same tools used on wood.
Before.
After.
AGS.
Green light is AGS active. Can be seen when cover is on.

[tenbear]

I know what you mean. I ran the 120v ammeter wire from the power dist box in the right rear of the MH to the left center-front where the meters are. Took a while to do it. Used 2 conductor #22 shielded audio wire from Radio Shack.

[ronfisherman]

tenbear wrote:
Looks good Ron. Did you use the meters that display both voltage and current?

I have the amp meter. But have not mounted it yet. Problem is Inverter and DC distribution are on opposite side of MH from the monitor panel. To save on wiring I am probably going to mount that meter in panel that has Inverter control in it. I will probably put 2 meters there. One for Inverter and other for DC distribution. My other thought is why mount it. When running on inverter I keep the AGS on. When voltage gets to 12 VDC. Generator starts. We only use these 2 features when traveling for overnight stops in rest area and other no shore power locations. Do not have Solar.

[RoyB]

Nice install... great idea for the panel...

I used a three gang specialty switch panel to house my two 12VDC meters and a 70AMP DC CURRENT meter. Just RTV glued the small meter movements to the inside of the switch opening.

This whole thing got mounted inside a regular 3-gang PVC switch box.
A must have item when camping off the power grid...





Roy Ken

[westend]

Nice work, looks well organized. I've got to expand my use of that King Starboard, that's a real nice looking material.

[tenbear]

Looks good Ron. Did you use the meters that display both voltage and current?