Recently Susan and I relocated to Round Rock, Tx., specifically to the Old Settlers RV park. A City Park with Full Hookups split with 30 and 50 amp sites. Be aware this is a no-frills park, with sites just big enough for a Alfa with slides out, without the awning. Upon setup, nothing abnormal was notice, plugged in and life was good. As we were leaving I notice this:
What I did not take was a photo of the plug looked like. When I remember to take additional photos, it was in the replacement process. The photo showing the damage to the plug, was a sight to see.
If you notice very closely, the Red wire (Leg 2) had come completely out of the terminal. The Green wire (safety ground) was burnt through the insulation.
As this was a Sunday, we knew we needed a replacement; we located a Camping World in New Braunfels. We arrived just as they opened and of course had to spend time looking around. Our destination was the Elks Lodge in Kerrville, Tx.
So, it was time for replacement of the damage plug and cord.
In replacing the plug this time, I had some wire sleeves, which I installed over the stranded wires. This allowed a firmer connection.
So, what is the take-away from this experience? Always look closely at both plug and receptacle.
What can cause a burnt plug – receptacle?
Loose connection, wire to terminal, inside the plug or the receptacle.
Loose connection, wire to terminal, circuit breaker.
Bad plug - receptacle.
Not being inserted all the way.
What can you do to prevent this?
Prior to plugging in, look closely at both the plug – receptacle.
Are the blades clean, is it a tight fit when plugged in. Is it inserted all the way?
Has your plug been replaced? If yes, have you opened the cover and ensure connections are tight.
Is the insulation of the cable pulled away from the strain relief? If it is a molded plug to cable, then replace it.
If it is a replacement plug, remove the strain relief, remove the cover, using black electrical tape (Not Cheap tape), wrap a few layers around the cable.
Cost: Less than $30
Time: 1 hr.
Out of the way of our travels? No
Safe Travels and Journeys
DaGirls Rv
Susan, Tilly, Dakota and me
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