[WWH]

I just completed adding a second ac unit and converted to 50 amp service.

For the 50 amp conversion I purchased a WFCO 50 amp power distribution panel from Best Converter that was actually a little smaller in physical size than the one that came with the trailer. The new one did not include space for the converter but I also upgraded the converter so a smaller panel worked out better anyway.

Even though the factory used Romex I used #6 wire in "wet" plastic conduit(since I already had the wire) to upgrade the wiring to the power distribution panel. Running the wire was not hard just time consuming. An air wrench sped up the removal of the left side of the under the trailer cover so I could run the wire.

Just take your time when removing the wires from the power distribution panel and LABLE THEM. Power off of course. I disconnected the ac first and powered it from an extension cord on a 20 amp circuit so it was comfortable working inside.

I purchased a Marinco 50 amp plug and power cord. Now that was the most expensive purchase in the conversion! Also when I removed the 30 amp cord the 50 amp plug was much smaller than the 30 amp hole in the trailer so when my wife was not looking I made a "cover" from her plastic cutting board that blends in perfectly and looks like it was made for the trailer. So far she has not been able to tell that is her cutting board. The mystery of the missing cutting board is still unsolved!

In addition to upgrading the converter I added a Progressive Industries energy management/ surge protector.

You will not need to change any other wiring since it is already sized for the loads.

I expect to be in some parks with 30 amp service I seperated the loads and kept the basic necessary loads on one leg and items like the second ac unit and hot water heater on the other leg. Since there is 50 amps available on each leg I can run everything electrical at once and not even come close to tripping a breaker. I could run it all off one leg and not overload it now.

http://www.myrv.us/electric/ is a great website to get additional information! It really took the mystery out of the conversion for me.

I hope this was helpful and if I can assist you please let me know.

[BoaterDan]

WWH, on 30 July 2010 - 09:23 AM, said:

so when my wife was not looking I made a "cover" from her plastic cutting board that blends in perfectly and looks like it was made for the trailer. So far she has not been able to tell that is her cutting board. The mystery of the missing cutting board is still unsolved!

Red Green would be so proud!

[BamaOutbackers]

The panel gets here Wed. Got weekends off because we're at the end of the job, now I'll start making everything right for travel again and doin a few things around the "House"