A couple electrical questions

[Lee F.]

This is my first unit with a 50amp service. I understand that 50amp has two seperate hot leads instead of one as in the 30 or 20amp. When I use an adapter to connect a smaller service to the 50 amp on the trailer do I still have power to the entire unit, lights, converter, frig. etc.?

Second question: When I have the battery disconnect in the off position I know there is still power to the slides and landing gear but is the battery still being charged?

Last question: My 2011 model came with a "90amp/12v DC Power Converter/Charger with a microprocessor controlled, multi-stage battery charger". Does this mean I don't have to be concerned about overcharging or cooking the batteries if I leave the unit plugged in all the time?

[H. John Kohl]

quote:Originally posted by Lee F.

This is my first unit with a 50amp service. I understand that 50amp has two seperate hot leads instead of one as in the 30 or 20amp. When I use an adapter to connect a smaller service to the 50 amp on the trailer do I still have power to the entire unit, lights, converter, frig. etc.?
Yes the 50 amp to 30 amp adaptor takes the source from the 30 amp and "Y"s it to both L1 and L2 of the 50 amp circuit.

Second question: When I have the battery disconnect in the off position I know there is still power to the slides and landing gear but is the battery still being charged?
That one you will have to test. I thought the convenience center switch killed 12vdc to the fuse panel but when I turned it off the fresh water pump still worked. So don't know.

Last question: My 2011 model came with a "90amp/12v DC Power Converter/Charger with a microprocessor controlled, multi-stage battery charger". Does this mean I don't have to be concerned about overcharging or cooking the batteries if I leave the unit plugged in all the time?
The answer should be yes but I would call the supplier with your model number and verify with them.

Good questions.

[hookman]

On question 1; yes everything still get power you just have to watch how many high drawing thing you use on 30 and 20 amp.
On Q. 2 I haven't checked into that.
On Q. 3 You still have service them regularly but they should not over charge or cook.

[Bill-N-Donna]

quote:Originally posted by Lee F.

This is my first unit with a 50amp service. I understand that 50amp has two seperate hot leads instead of one as in the 30 or 20amp. When I use an adapter to connect a smaller service to the 50 amp on the trailer do I still have power to the entire unit, lights, converter, frig. etc.?

To the best of my knowledge everything should work on 30 as it would on 50 amps. However, if you will be running two A/C’s; it’s my understanding that you will need a 50 amp service for the load it pulls. I have tripped a 30 amp supply breaker by pulling too much load. If I have the option I prefer the 50 amp service.

Second question: When I have the battery disconnect in the off position I know there is still power to the slides and landing gear but is the battery still being charged?

Last question: My 2011 model came with a "90amp/12v DC Power Converter/Charger with a microprocessor controlled, multi-stage battery charger". Does this mean I don't have to be concerned about overcharging or cooking the batteries if I leave the unit plugged in all the time?

[Carl n Susan]

For question #3 "My 2011 model came with a "90amp/12v DC Power Converter/Charger with a microprocessor controlled, multi-stage battery charger". Does this mean I don't have to be concerned about overcharging or cooking the batteries if I leave the unit plugged in all the time?"

Montana's brochure states it comes with a "80 amp Xantrex™ XADC converter" which is a true three stage converter. Your batteries are safe with it. However the "80 amp Xantrex™ XADC converter" is obsolete and no longer manufactured. You say you have a 90 amp converter. I suggest you find the make and model numbers and Google it. I bet you will find it too is a three stage converter.

Also if you can, let us know what converter you have. The Montana specificatiosn are obviously incorrect (again).

[Bill and Lisa]

quote:Originally posted by H. John Kohl

Good questions.

Let me build on John's answer to number 2. when you open the battery disconnect it interupts the 12VDC to the DC Bus from the battery. Only DC loads that will be powered from the battery will be those directly connected to the battery (Slides, Landing Gear).

Opening the disconnect will NOT interupt the flow of 12VDC to the DC Bus from the converter so if you are plugged in to AC, you will still have power on the DC Bus and your water pump will still run, as well as your heater, Fridge, lights, ect. BUT DC generated by the converter will not reach the battery and will not charge it.

[Lee F.]

Great answers. You guys are a great help. I'm going to check more on the convertor and I'll let you know.

Thanks

[Lee F.]

Carl N Susan,

My unit came with a Progressive Dynamics PD4590K18L. It is 90amps and has a three mode automatic charging system. I guess the brochure hasn't been updated.