How To Wire In a Power Distribution Box To Accept Power From Shore Power and a 12V Inverter?

Question:

Working on a custom cargo trailer to camper conversion. Looking for the simplest way to set up the power system. I will have a mix of ac/dc power needs. I am looking to purchase an inverter/charger. My understanding is that this progressive dynamics serves primarily as a power distribution box and will not work as an inverter. Thus my question. I will run my batteries and shore power to the inverter/charger first and then into this distribution box then out to all the appliances and items needing power?

asked by: Jeremy G

Expert Reply:

You are correct that the Progressive Dynamics RV Power Control Center # PD4135K is only a power distribution box and charger for your batteries.

If you are going to run power to the Progressive Dynamics distribution box off of a shore power cord and an inverter you will need to also use a Automatic Transfer Switch # F30ATS. The transfer switch will allow from power to come from 2 different sources. When you disconnect your shore power or if the power were to go out it will automatically begin to pull power from the inverter.

To simplify the amount of components, you can use the Go Power Industrial Pure Sine Wave Inverter Charger # 34280055 as it will take the place of the inverter, charger and transfer switch. This is compatible with standard deep cell batteries, AGM and lithium batteries as well. This will allow you to also use a residential sytle breaker box rather than the RV style box having the charger built in. I have linked a copy of the instructions below as they have a complete wiring diagram that will help you fully understand the wiring for this device.

expert reply by: Bud M