Campground Power Pedestal question

[srclink]

Very first time using our brand new Montana; staying at a local campground for a month to get used to everything. Been reading the MOC for months in preparation so I naturally printed off the excellent "Multi-meter to check campground pedestal" post and ran the test before hooking up for the first time. Got some unexpected readings for Step2 of the 50Amp test (testing each hot lead to ground). Each result was the same, only 30V for each side. All of the other tests were fine. Since I wasn't sure about this one, I used the 30Amp outlet instead which tested OK all around. Can someone tell me what the 30V readings on the 50Amp test mean and is it OK to use the 50Amp outlet?

[H. John Kohl]

Stu,
Jim Fischer (NCFISCHERS) wrote that testing guide.
30V is not what is expected. If you got 220 when checking both hots and good readings in step one then I would measure it again and make sure the ground connection is good.
Edit - after reading your post a second time, You should have the same reading for ground as you do for common. So if step one is a good reading and step three is not then the ground wire in the socket is probably loose. I would report it to the Park Owner.
Good catch. Since I helped edit the topic for Jim we are glad it helped.

[BB_TX]

If the other steps checked OK, it sounds like neutral is not bonded to ground. But as John said, notify the park and let their maintenance person check it out.
In the meantime, if you have a 50/30 adapter, you can plug into the 30 amp outlet since it checked OK.

[NCFischers]

I'm glad the checklist helped you out. I agree that the pedestal has a loose wire.

[Jay Bird]

If you do not have a surge protector, suggest you get one. As you can see you have experienced a problem with the pedestal on your first time out. Surge protector is good insurance.

[CORattler]

+1
I never use the Monty without one ... of course mine is hardwired.

quote:Originally posted by Jay Bird

If you do not have a surge protector, suggest you get one. As you can see you have experienced a problem with the pedestal on your first time out. Surge protector is good insurance.

[Countryfolks]

An EMS would be even better, especially for this kind of problem.

[srclink]

Thanks everyone. I didn't mention it in my original post, but (again after much reading of the MOC over the past 5 months) I had already bought and am using a Surge Guard. The problem has been reported to campgorund management and we're staying on the 30A connection until it is resolved.

[Bill-N-Donna]

Wow, great catch!