transfer switch

[Len Silva]

If your coach is 50 Amp/240 Volt, then you need a three pole switch in order to transfer the neutral.  Those can get very expensive.

The switch that Grant posted the link to is a two pole and would only be suitable for 30 Amp/ 120 Volt service.

For economy and simplicity, you can't beat the plug in system, safe and foolproof.  There is no reason the plugs cannot be located inside the coach with a few precautions.  Both the incoming power and the generator source should be protected by breakers as close to the source as possible.  I also believe that it is not approved to locate the transfer or other electrical controls in a clothes closet.  Most any other compartment should be OK.

[BillC]

Thanks everybody for your info, the auto switch has given me problems before and i dont have a problem goin out to plug in the gen set so for now I think i will wire in the plugs and give that a try for a few years. I will post what brand the auto switch is when i get it out .  thanks again  Bill C

[travelingfools]

Cody's method is the simplest.  But- it always seems that when you least expect it, the power will go out in the campsite during a major storm that doesn't let up for hours. Either you go out in the rain to switch the plug in the bay, or wait the storm out hoping you don't need power for those few minutes or hours.
I would suggest a simple switching like I have.  I have four 50amp circuit breakers inside the bus with a slide plate that only allows two breakers to be used at a time-two for land line and two for generator.  So switching from land line to generator involves turning the two land lines off, sliding the plate over to uncover the generator breakers, then just turn on the generator breakers.  No leaving the comfort of the bus, or getting wet, etc.  And the breakers are standard Square D breakers that were bought at Home Depot, so replacement on the road is easy, if needed.  Good Luck, TomC

Tom, Is that something you made ? If so, could we see a pic ? Ive seen something similier but with a rocking metal bar that pushes one breaker off when the oppasite one is flipped on.

[TomC]

Yes I made the slider plate and used a 4 breaker box for the main.  I hope the pict is clear enough.  The right most box is the main box, the next left is the general circuit breaker including a 30 amp to the inverter, the inverter box is the next one with a single row of switches, then the 12v fuses.  Good Luck, TomC

[gus]

I should have mentioned that my Honda EV6010 has both 30 and 20 amp output circuits so I actually use two sockets and plugs.

I thought this was a weird setup when I first got it but now see the many advantages.

I can hook up at an RV park which has no 50a service just as easily as if it did. The 20a circuit is to only one AC that I don't use much anyway but it is there if I need it. If I ever need more stuff on that circuit I can easily change my box wiring.