"Big Ugly Switch" in kitchen question - Montana Owners Club

homendn · 07-30-2006, 03:01 AM

Good Morning!!

Did a quick search for switches, kitchen switches, 3295RK Switchs, etc on a couple of relevant topics. I am sure I missed something. So - quick question here. Based on an extensive string about voltages, and power boost systems, I went a got a digital multimeter and started checking plugs in the coach. Got a really nice 120 volt reading all around. The trailer is plugged into the house with an extension cord and adapters on the shore power cable.

I wanted to check the voltage drop when different appliances were started so started with the microwave. It wasn't working!!!!! Got my attention right away!

Long story short, the "Big Ugly Switch" on the side of the cabinet housing the microwave is a two function switch. Down powers the micro and up powers the fireplace/heater.

As my grandchildren are fond of saying "Whats up with that??" Is this for real? Why would they do something like that??

Or -------- Maybe the thing is wired wrong? Just need some info and appreciate any that you can give.

Dave

jrgwdenner · 07-30-2006, 03:24 AM

I would guess that you're not supposed to use your fireplace at the same time you use your microwave. We are always aware of using too many appliances, etc, at the same time. Just a thought 'cause I don't know anything about electricity.

CountryGuy · 07-30-2006, 03:36 AM

Judy, think you are right on that. I believe this came up many many moons ago on the forum, some people NOT happy, but that is the way they wired it, all on same circuit (or whatever) and to use both the fireplace and the microwave at the same time was toooooooooo large a draw, therefore the switch. A hassle, I am sure, maybe one of those "art of living in a RV" things, like the noisy water pumps!

Carol

Bill and Ann · 07-30-2006, 03:57 AM

For us the switch was a NO BRAINER. I rewired the switch so the micro is active all the time and we don't use it if the fireplace is on. Simple solution. Now we don't have to reset the micro clock everytime we use the fireplace. We just flip the switch to turn the fireplace on.

TheCoachPotatoes · 07-30-2006, 04:33 AM

Bill and Ann,
What a great idea!! Really is a nuisance to keep resetting the clock. Al rewired the switch in bath area so that the switch for the commode and fan is inside the commode room. This after I turned lights on in middle of night!!! A lot of their electrical switches are not too convenient. Would like a switch when you first come in the door. Also there should be 12volt over bathroom sink. Al is planning on working on all of this as he has time. Sure would help if we were retired! Lots of projects......so little time. Bill, didn't you say you would come and help us when we were at the Northeast Rally??? Ha!

homendn · 07-30-2006, 04:40 AM

I see now!! OK - so I went out and put my new digital toy in the socket and WOW!, the micro drew 16 volts and the little heater drew 18. That would be enough to trip the house circuit if they both were on at the same time me thinks ..............

I am no electrician either but I know one and both switch ideas sound great to me. The bathroom light thing is a PITA too ...... Thanks for all the information!!!

Dave

Bill and Ann · 07-30-2006, 08:39 AM

Nita: If Al does our floor, I'll do the wiring.

RVWheels · 07-30-2006, 01:30 PM

homendn,
The "big ugly switch" was one of the things that was "added" or changed by Montana due to the comments made here on the Forum.

RVWheels

TheCoachPotatoes · 07-30-2006, 02:31 PM

Bill and Ann,
How does this sound? Al will do his own wiring and will supervise your flooring project! Ann and I will offer moral support!!

Bill and Ann · 07-31-2006, 02:22 AM

Moral support? Is that what they are calling it now?

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