6-3
SECTION 6
ELECTRICAL
6 ELECTRICAL
POWER CENTER
(Converter)
The power converter changes 110-volt AC
current from the auxiliary generator or the
shoreline into 12-volt DC current for use by 12-
volt equipment.
Certain circuits, however, remain unchanged
for use by items which require 110-volt current,
such as the air conditioner, the refrigerator in AC
mode, the microwave oven, etc.
Current drawn from the coach batteries passes
through the power converter unchanged,
although it is routed through a series of protective
breakers located on the power panel.
Further Information
Refer to the converter manufacturer’s
information provided in your Owner InfoCase for
additional information about your power
converter system.
Charging Section
The converter charges coach batteries while
110-volt external power is connected. The
converter will automatically “sense” the
condition of the RV battery. If it is below “full
charge”, the Charging Section will start charging
the batteries.
If the coach batteries have been extremely
discharged, they will accept charge at a relatively
high amperage rate. If they are only slightly
discharged, they will charge at a lower amperage
rate. The rate of charge will decrease as the
batteries reach “full charge”, then will continue
“trickle” charging at a very low amperage rate. If
your battery does not charge as described above,
it is possible the battery is defective.
Thermal Overload
A thermal overload will “break” the 110-volt
AC power to the converter section of the Power
Center if the power converter becomes
overheated. This can result from operating above
its maximum limit for an extended period of time
or by obstruction of ventilation to unit.
NOTE: The power converter section will
automatically route 12-volt lights and
motors to battery power in this event.
The thermal overload will reset itself after a
period of time, and the lights and motors will
again resume operation from the power converter
section. If the breaker trips again shortly after
reset, take immediate steps to correct the cause of
overheating. A portion of the coach 12-volt load
(lights or motors or both) should be turned off to
reduce total load. Also, inspect the power
converter section to make sure ventilation is not
obstructed.
110-VOLT CIRCUIT BREAKERS
The breaker panel protects all 110-volt
components in the motor home from either an
overload on the circuit or a short in the wiring or
component itself. When an overload or short
develops, the breaker will open preventing
damage to the system.
Shut off the equipment (example: air
conditioner) and allow a brief cooling period.
Then reset the breaker by moving the switch to
“Off” and back to “On”. If the breaker is
continually tripped and no overload is evident,
have the system checked for a short in the wiring
or the appliances.
The 110-Volt circuit breaker panel is located
behind the cabinet door under the refrigerator or
near the galley.
CAUTION
Do not block the converter cover vents in
any way. The converter generates heat
while operating, and needs unrestricted
air flow for proper cooling.
