Shore power cord only?

[adventureduo]

I just read in our AT manual (must have missed this part) that we should NOT use a standard extension cord for our shore power when charging the trailer.

I've had a regular extension cord plugged into the thing since we bought it with no problems to speak of. Is this just a general guideline or something i need to switch ASAP?

When i bought the trailer, i was just told a extension cord to plug in the port.

Just want to make sure im not going to screw up two Lifeline batts!

thanks guys

 

[UK4X4]

As a guess......it probably means not a $1.25 chinese ones

which melts with 1 amp...

But a good sized conducter extension cord which can handle the ampage if the batteries are flat.

For maintaining charge ....the chinese version would suffice..

 

[jbs]

I saw this in my manual too and I interpreted "standard" as 16 gauge. Especially for a longer run, this is not sufficient for much current load. I got a 25ft. 10 gauge cord, which I think is OK.

 

[IH8RDS]

My RV is the same way. If you need a durable extension cord you can pick one up at a local RV shop. The few times that I had to use a extension cord I could actually feel the heat off the cord. Definate fire hazzard.

 

[adventureduo]

Ok, i think we're good then. We aren't getting any heat whatsoever from our cord. It's a average cord (not a cheapo) and its probably 15 feet long. Just wanted to make sure. Good thread for other trailer owners out their i suppose.

 

[Gregny]

I think most cords are 14ga the heavier are 12ga. I'd say use the 12ga if possible .

 

[Mike S]

I believe that the (expensive) marine shore power cords have a built-in fuse. They are designed for powering both 12V and 110V power suckers on a larger craft. A simple 'smart' charger is not pulling more than a few amps when running, and the draw drops as the battery charges up.

I use a good quality standard extension cord to power my on board charger that tends the twp 105 AH marine batts in my trailer.

M

 

[Bergger]

I saw this as well and asked Mario about it. He said a standard extension cord is fine for the Adventure Trailers. The manual is a bit generic on certain topics and the section you are refering to is more accurate if talking about large RV's.