Power Inlet Needed To Add Shore Power To An Enclosed Trailer

Question:

I am wanting to add shore power to my enclosed trailer. I will not be doing a 12v system. Only a 120v. I was looking at getting a 100a 6 space panel. I was going to order a 30a plug, but was thinking with the 100a panel I could go to 50a plug if I decide I need more electricity someday. I was wondering if this would be ok to do that way. Also, do I need to ground the panel to the trailer frame? I will be running on grid power sometimes and other times off honda 3000. Let me know if my panel would be ok and I will start ordering the stuff I need to get started! Thank you.

asked by: Jeremy

Expert Reply:

If you're only wanting to setup AC service in your enclosed trailer then you could choose pretty much any 30 or 50 amp power inlet you wanted and then just run the appropriate gauge wire between the inlet and your panel. You can definitely install a 50 amp inlet and then just use a 50 amp to 30 amp adapter whenever you're at a site with only 30 amp service.

You could use the Mighty Cord Replacement RV Power Inlet - White # A10-50INVP or # A10-50INBKVP for black. You'd need a minimum of 6 gauge wire between the inlet and your panel to safely handle 50 amps and you will need to run a ground line from the panel to the frame of the trailer.

If you're wanting the top of the line power inlet then I recommend going with the SmartPlug RV Power Inlet - 50 Amp - Black # SM56FR. While SmartPlug equipment is quite a bit more, it offers better conductivity and a far more secure connection. Twist-lock style connectors are much cheaper but tend to generate heat and end up burning out.

These inlets come in the following colors:

White # SM89FR
Gray # SM29FR
Stainless Steel # SM79FR

If you have any other questions then let me know and I can help find the right products for you.