5outta6
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Re: "Plug In" generator transfer switch/relay?
j-d wrote: I'd be afraid to use a pair of SPDT relays in place of a single DPDT. I can't draw a diagram to back the thought up, but it seems that if one relay "picked" and the other did not (say a coil failure), we could end up with problems. As you deliberate this project, bear in mind there are entry level 30-Amp ATS units starting around $50. If the genset is a recent model like ONAN 4KY, it won't supply AC to the ATS (or the coil in a home made one) until its logic board verifies it's good to go. So an ATS with its own power evaluation would be redundant. So does this mean you can just leave the house power cord plugged into the generator receptacle and the generator will not provide the power until its 'good to go', eliminating the need for a ATS?761Views0likes0CommentsRe: "Plug In" generator transfer switch/relay?
Jim@HiTek wrote: Here's that schematic of a home built ATS (Automatic Transfer Switch). It can be either a single DPDT, or two SPDT relays with the coils (and only the coils) wired in parallel. They can be 30 amp too if you tend to be frugal with electrical usage. The grounds are just all connected together. I'd recommend using the best high quality parts when connecting things together. As it's wired, the genset has to come up to speed and properly present it's voltage to the relay before it operates. So no delay needed for most applications. When operating, it's important to note that this is a 'dumb' ATS, not like today's smart devices that sense when the AC voltage passes through ground before it switches so there's never a spark or problems downstream with any live electronic devices like TVs or computers. Just like the old days where you had to shut most stuff down before starting the genset. And finally, I'm aware the word 'continuous' is spelled wrong on the drawing. Thank you!760Views0likes0CommentsRe: "Plug In" generator transfer switch/relay?
Dutch_12078 wrote: Jim@HiTek wrote: It's simplicity itself. You just need a small Square D box with wiring knockouts, a 120 Volt coil DPST continuous duty relay, a few wire clamps and wire nuts. You wire the Hot and Neutral of the incoming 30 amp cable to the Normally Closed contacts. The Normally Open contacts are wired to the Hot and Neutral of the generator. The Common contacts go to the RV. The relay power leads are wired to the Hot and Neutral of the generator, just like the NO contacts. So what happens is if you plug into shore power, power goes through the NC contacts and your RV is hot. Now, if you want to run the Generator, just start it up, and when power is available, it automatically closes the Relay, and you have power. Takes just a couple hours to install it all and configure and wire it up. Let me know if you need a schematic. Better make that a "DPDT" relay with contacts rated for a 30 amp or higher load. And make absolutely sure it's a "break before make" relay! Commercial automatic transfer switches often have arc suppression and/or a delay timer that allows the generator to get up to speed with a stable voltage before connecting a load to it. I was wondering at the type of switch after searching for them after reading your post. Yes, please post the schematic.... thanks470Views0likes0CommentsRe: "Plug In" generator transfer switch/relay?
Tal/IL wrote: I'm sure you can find an electrician to install it. But, is it worth the $$$? I just leave my cord plugged into the generator receptacle any time I am not hooked to shore power. When I unhook and stow the cable, I just plug it in. If I don't need generator power, the cable is just stowed. But, if I need generator power, I just hit the dash button. Mine says do not plug in power cord into generator until after generator is running...........469Views0likes0Comments"Plug In" generator transfer switch/relay?
When we purchased our used 2017 Coachman Leprechaun Class C I failed to notice that we have to plug in the power cord into a receptacle every time after starting the generator. I didn't think of this or notice the sticker stating this at the time of purchase. My old Jayco class C had the auto transfer switch so I thought they all did.. Anyway, Does anyone know of a 'plug in' relay or transfer switch that I could leave pluged in between the 30amp shore cable and the receptacle for generator power, to eliminate the need to go outside to use the generator? Any info greatly appreciated ( Last year on on 9K mile trip in the Leprechaun , we didn't need the generator at anytime over 2 months.}7.6KViews0likes34CommentsRe: Why Does Camping World Advertise Items they don't have?
D.E.Bishop wrote: 5outta6, I know you finally have your problem resolved and are on your way, but, CW has not and will not change in any way due to you exposing their business practices. They have and will continue to follow business practices that are to their advantage. However, in our State there are a multitude of laws and regulations that prohibit some of their practices. I fully appreciate the Forums and the Good Sam club, it is expensive to create and maintain a public forum with the principles followed here. Good Sam is another community based(at least originally) self help and recreation oriented organization. And here is the "but", and I hope I am quoting correctly, "They are my millions and they are my rules". There is a huge billboard near the market I trade at with the smirking face of the forum's benefactor touting his TV show, "The Profit". On edit, yesterday I could not post on the forums, probably due to some failure of my computer and to be honest I really would have withheld most of this post because I didn't think the problem had been resolved, but it is cathartic and I do feel better. I'm glad you feel better. Btw: I'm also in Calif. and know consumer laws and regulations well. The whole point of posting here is to get CW to take action. And like I said, this forum got results. Better than emailing CW.459Views0likes0CommentsRe: Why Does Camping World Advertise Items they don't have?
Epilogue: I finally received my roof vent cover after numerous emails and telephone calls ( of which only to hang up after prolonged wait times for service). Posting here probably helped more than emailing or calling CW customer service , which in my opinion is lacking. Just like the old saying: "The squeaky wheel gets the grease".460Views0likes0Comments
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