Transfer switch

There are basicaly two Generator Transfer systems in use on RV's. (Three total but I've never heard of the 3rd being used)

Method modern: An automatic transfer switch. To switch to generator power do the following.

FIRST: Make sure the circuit breakers on the Generator are in the ON position please. You'd be surprised at how often that is the problem.

Now: TUrn OFF shore power, or unplug from shore power.

Now: Start generator per instructions that came with it (Or which you download from the maker's customer support site).

Sit back and wait, likely less than 1 minute but some times it can be as high as three minutes.


The older system I often call a "Poor man's transfer".

On this system there will be a matching outlet (Matches the RV's power cord) On or near (Usually near) the generator or in the compartment where the cord is stored.

You physically "Transfer" the plug from the park outlet to the generator powered outlet...

And that's it.

Yup, need more information. What coach??

You will either have an ATS OR have to plug/unplug shore power cord into generator outlet.

have you checked the breakers on the generator? as mentioned, make and model would help a lot.

If the unit did have a (Automatic) Transfer Switch then it would automatically switch to the generator (from shore power) after a one minute (or so) delay following generator AC power is applied.

For one NON ATS example, our Class C does not have an ATS, we must plug our 30 Amp male into a 30 Amp female which comes from the generator and is located in the bay where our 30 Amp cord is stored.

What is make ands model of the rig?
Some rigs you must plug the shore power cord into a receptacle in the power hatch. These do not have a transfer switch.