Electrical modification

[h2ojocky]

I was wondering if it is possible to modify a 12 gauge extension cord to have a male on each end. I was hoping to plug one end into outlet in my garage and the other end into a receptacle on the outside of my Monty. The 50 amp twist plug is so expensive and the anaconda is so heavy. This would be for temporary use to just give me light and charge my batteries for a day or two. I know there are many on this forum that are extremely knowledgeable. Any comments are appreciated.

[Devildog]

I would think this would be a violation of electrical code? Don't know. But I power my camper at home with a regular 30 amp cord on a 15 amp non gfi circuit. Then plug in my dog bone adapter to my 50 amp cord. Runs a few lights, and keeps batteries charged. And can watch NASCAR on satellite when I get run out of the house.

[jsmitfl]

You can, but like some will tell you it is bad judgment and maybe illegal. You would be better off making up a short 50amp cord and use a regular adapter to go from the 50 down to the 15a. Also I don't think that just plugging into a o.s. receipt on the fiver that it will charge the batteries. Good luck

[NCFischers]

What you are thinking of doing is highly dangerous and illegal to even own a cord like that in some states. By doing this, you will be putting the potential of 50 amps on a 15 amp wire inside the trailer and when you burn it down, your insurance company will drop you like a hot rock. Can you be absolutely sure you won't overload that wire?? DO NOT DO IT. I've been an electrical contractor for over 40 years so take my word for it.

[hunts800]

I bought a. 50amp to 110 pigtail from Tweetys and use a regular 14 gauge extension cord plugged into a 20 amp circuit. I don' t run anything but lights, TV, etc when at home. I would not do what you are suggesting, especially since it's not necessary to achieve your objective.

[BB_TX]

There is a reason they call those "suicide cords". I agree with the others, don't do it.
The adapters are a much better and safer method.

[bncinwv]

The above posts are correct from a safety standpoint. There are safe alternatives

Here is the cord I use, which will also enable a hookup to a portable generator in the event you ever want to use one:


Long Cord 50 amp to 30 amp

But a short adapter will work if you just want to use a heavy duty extension cord:

Short Cord 50 amp to 30 amp

Then to use either of the above with a common household 15 amp receptacle:


30 amp to 15 amp adapter block

Another way would be a 50 amp to 15 amp adapter:

50 amp to 15 amp adapter

There are other combinations that will work as well to prevent from having to drag the heavy 50 amp shore cord out.

Bingo

[Ozz]

Bingo, thanks for posting alternatives.

[bncinwv]

quote:Originally posted by Ozz

Bingo, thanks for posting alternatives.

I just posted for info purposes, Ozz may well beat the prices for the vendor that I used!!
Bingo

[Overlord]

quote:Originally posted by h2ojocky

I was wondering if it is possible to modify a 12 gauge extension cord to have a male on each end. I was hoping to plug one end into outlet in my garage and the other end into a receptacle on the outside of my Monty.

So what happens when somebody unplugs your modified cord from the trailer when the other end is still plugged in at the other end in the garage?!

.....I'll tell you what will happen. If they, by chance, grab hold of the resultant "hot" male plug, they will definitely not be happy about it.

Also, you would be running all 115v draw (let's say someone switches on the electric water heater that is right next to water pump switch, by accident, or decides to use the microwave) through the outside plug's wiring which is a 15 amp circuit, if the circuit breaker doesn't trip, there is the potential to burn down your trailer, or at the very least, melt the plug ends of your "special" cord.

Not a good idea at all my friend!!!

[h2ojocky]

OK. I get the picture. Not a good idea. Thanks for all the help. Thanks to Bingo for the links for pigtails.