what size of surge protector?

wyleyrabbit

Well-known member
We are planning for our maiden voyage soon, but want to make sure we've got our bases covered. I think a surge protector is a good idea and probably a "must have". We have the BH 3055RL with a single air conditioner, and the usual stuff.

Now the question: Should we get the 50A version of the surge protector, or is a 30A all we need? Am I going to cause myself grief by having a 30A considering the trailer has 50A?

Thanks,
Chris
 

TXBobcat

Fulltime
Chris
With the 3055 you have a 50a system. You can use 30 am most of the time. If you want to run two A/C's you need 50amp. I would suggest you get a 50amp Surge Guard. If you can install an internal unit that would be great. I use an External and connect it to the shore power. If you need or want to connect to a 30a service you can use an 50 to 30 amp adapter and the 50amp surge Guard will still work. Only one branch of the service will be checked.

Here are a couple of URL's that may be useful for you.
http://www.surgeguard.com/34750.html
http://www.surgeguard.com/40240.html
http://www.surgeguard.com/34560.html

Here is a place you can check the prices
http://www.tweetys.com/search.aspx?find=surge+guard+50amp
 

TXBobcat

Fulltime
I will keep keep my 30 amp for those times I won't have 50 amp.

I have found that I didn't need my 30amp surge guard. Just plug a 50 to 30 amp adapter into the 30amp shore power. The 50amp unit will still protect the trailer. I gave my 30amp surge guard to a friend.

BC
 

jmgratz

Original Owners Club Member
I agree, if you have a 50 amp coach you need a 50 a surge protector to be totally protected. I have used one from Progressive Industries which you can see at this website http://www.progressiveindustries.net/ems_pt50c.htm It has saved me several times. It is not hardwired, it is portable so I just put a lock on it locking it to the pedistal. I wanted a protable one so I can move it with me if and when we change RVs. This the is 2nd RV we have used it on. It is not cheap (about $300) but just one problem will move than pay for it. This unit will protect from over or under voltage, loss of ground, out of phase, voltage spikes. This one is not just a surge protector.
 

SLJKansas

SLJKansas
Good idea about the 30 amp adapter, thanks. I'm thinking of the EMSPT50C, more money but more protection, what do you think?
 

TXBobcat

Fulltime
Well, all I can tell you is find one that you are happy with..
Jim and I purchased the one we thought would do the job and is within the price range we wanted.

However I would get one. Check out some of the older thread with a scarch and you will read about loosing all the electronic equipment in the trailer. Also I remember reading one where they had a huge surge and blew out the surge guard. Melted it but saved the trailer. The mfgr replaced it for nothing. I wouldn't want one inside to burn up like that but out on the shore power post.
 

jayc

Texas-South Chapter Leaders
I saved a few bucks by buying my TRC surge protector off EBAY, complete with a lock to protect it from being stolen. Even after paying shipping, I saved almost $100!
 
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