Breaker box options

[PA BAMBI II]

We are looking to get the wiring hooked up in the trailer. Last summer she was gutted and I redid all of the wire runs- 120 and 12 volt- with new wire.

I have a 20 amp line for each the microwave and AC and a few 15 amp lines for "regular" receptacles.

Can anyone recommend a breaker box for the Airstream? My electrician friend told me to just go with one from a big box home improvement store...can anyone give me specifics on what they used for a new breaker box?

Thanks!

Ben

[lewster]

Hi Ben,

I usually don't reveal my sources, but there is a perfect 120VAC/12VDC power center for your needs made by Progressive Dynamics. It even has one of their 3 stage converters integrated into it. It is called the 'Mighty Mini' and you can find it here: Mighty Mini All-In-One System AC/DC Power Distribution Panel and Inteli-Power Converter

Have fun!!!

[Minno]

Hi Ben,

I also highly recommend the Progressive Dynamics unit Lewster pointed you too. It's fairly compact, easy to install and wire, and will handle all your power needs. The converter has a jumper you install for AGM batteries, so it'll charge them properly if you go with AGMs. We've been using ours for 6 years without any issues.

You can buy a home style breaker box and use that, but then you still need to buy a converter and a 12 volt fuse panel. If you go that route, be sure to buy a tri-stage converter.

Chris

[dbj216]

I wish I had researched the Progressive Dynamics product. I went with a standard home style breaker box. It has room for 8 circuits of which I used 4 of them. It takes quite a bit more room. And I mounted a 12v fuse panel on top of it. It all works, but not the most elegant system around.

David

[lewster]

This is one of the power center arrangements that I use (minus the covers) when re-wiring an entire trailer. It replaced the old Parallax converter, breaker box and fuse panel.

[mnmhays]

Originally Posted by lewster

Hi Ben,

I usually don't reveal my sources, but there is a perfect 120VAC/12VDC power center for your needs made by Progressive Dynamics. It even has one of their 3 stage converters integrated into it. It is called the 'Mighty Mini' and you can find it here: Mighty Mini All-In-One System AC/DC Power Distribution Panel and Inteli-Power Converter

Have fun!!!

I wish I had found this when I replaced my Argosy converter. Definatly a must when I get to the Sovereign! Thanks Lewster!

[KrisE MN]

Taking your word and buying one. You're all to blame if my camper blows up <eg>

[lewster]

Now you know why I don't give specific advise if I'm not directly involved in a project. Not worth the liability exposure. :-))


Lew Farber
RVIA/RVDA Nationally Certified Master Tech
Master Tech Energy Systems, Inc.
AM Solar Certified Installation Center
Lifeline Batteries**Magnum Inverters
541-490-6357

[KrisE MN]

I don't have that good a memory considering everything I am buying. besides...the judge says there's too many lewsters out there. ��

[HiJoeSilver]

Unless you rerouted all the 120v and 12v so the wires terminate in the same area the combined PD center may be more work than you want. You can just get the smallest breaker box at the big box that will give you enough slots, as described it'll probably be a 100A box that's just a bit bigger than the original and will hold about 8 breakers.
On a trailer the ground stays separate from the neutral. Don't forget to ground to the frame.