I have made many electrical changes

[FrankR]

I really like Airstream trailers, but the electrical is poorly designed and executed.The 12 volt system is redesigned and I have removed all fuses, changed to manual reset circuit breakers, removed fuses for all exterior lites and installed a 2 battery selector switch. The converter has been recessed into the floor into an aluminium box for noise and to shed heat from unit. A photo shows some changes.. Frank

[PeterH-350LE]

Frank, I noticed that the fuse (20amp) running my main interior lights (12 bulbs) tends to get extremely hot, when turned on for a while.
I cleaned the contacts and replaced the fuse.
Is there a better solution?

[FrankR]

I do not know your particular RV. Just a few conditions can cause a temperature rise at the fuses. The choises are poor or dirty fuses, poor or dirty fuse holders, too many lites of too hi wattage or amps and finally poor mechanical connections at the fuse. The fuse holders become overheated or distorted with bad removal and replacement. The fuse holder ends need to be crushed to make a VERY firm connection when fuse is installed. Suggestion........while fuse is removed, install an amp meter with at least a 50 AMP deflection and observe how many amps are being used. Any smaller meter will make fire or toast. Remove a battery cable so as to make no electrical power to coach. Have helper connect cable after meter connected. Tell how it works..
Frank

[ArtStream]

Frank, Good suggestion.

[Wabbiteer]

The ceiling lights call for #1141 Frosted 12.8V 1.44A bulbs.

Twelve bulbs times 1.44 equals 17.28 Amps - or 208 watts.

*Using the actual man'f spec is 18.4 watts each, or 220 watts.

Add line, socket and switch resistance = 19~ Amps (228/*242.88W) on a 20A (240W) fuse.

Don't be up sizing the fuse, downsize the bulbs with 12V fluorescent or LEDs...