INFO: I am looking for 50A power -which used Winnebagos/Itasca's have it?

lemosley01 · 06-27-2011, 08:25 AM

Hello everyone,
we are shopping for a used gas class-A RV; our budget is 50K (that is really the ceiling), which generally puts us into the 2003-2005 model year ranges.

50A service is on my list of requirements; which Winnebago/Itascas have 50A service? The brochures aren't clear.

For example, I see the 2003 Winnebago Brave and Adventurer both have an optional 50A power cord, but 30A is standard. Does this mean that the coach is a 50A coach and all you would need to do is purchase a 50A power cord?

Thank you

Luv2go · 06-27-2011, 08:36 AM

Unfortunately the short answer is no. 50A service requires a new breaker panel, transfer switch (if equipped) and upgraded wiring from the cord junction box/transfer switch to the breaker panel.

Good Luck in your search!

Campingman · 06-27-2011, 08:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lemosley01

Hello everyone,
we are shopping for a used gas class-A RV; our budget is 50K (that is really the ceiling), which generally puts us into the 2003-2005 model year ranges.

50A service is on my list of requirements; which Winnebago/Itascas have 50A service? The brochures aren't clear.

For example, I see the 2003 Winnebago Brave and Adventurer both have an optional 50A power cord, but 30A is standard. Does this mean that the coach is a 50A coach and all you would need to do is purchase a 50A power cord?

Thank you

No, what it means is 50 amp was an option that you could order when the rig was new. You should be able to get into the 2006-2007 year range for $50,000. Look on E-bay just to get an Idea of whats out there for sale.

Mark

lemosley01 · 06-27-2011, 08:45 AM

Thanks for the info.

Campingman - I've been watching Ebay closely as well as the ad services, but haven't found 2006-2007s in that range. In the auctions, some start at 50K, but they go up from there. I'm also trying to limit my range to around 1000 miles from home (Charlotte, NC).

Do you have any advice to pass on?

TurtleKent · 06-27-2011, 08:50 AM

My 02 Adventurer had the optional 50amp service, not just a 50a cord but actually 50a throughout. It's a factory option, just like a car, you would have to look at the build sheet of the motorhome, or the motorhome itself, to see if it is included. The brochures list 50a as an option. Some options are found on almost all models, other options are more rare. Good hunting.

Hikerdogs · 06-27-2011, 03:58 PM

Unfortunately 50 amp power wasn't standard in the Adventurer until 2007. It was an option as far back as at least 2001. We ordered our 2001 Adventurer with the 50 amp service. It certainly is a plus and we would never get another coach without at least that much power.

DancinCampers · 06-27-2011, 06:33 PM

If you have the coach s/n Winny should be able to tell you which. But I would also double check the cord and breaker box before buying.

mrschwarz · 06-27-2011, 08:12 PM

Actually, the equipment in a 30-amp Winnebago can support 50 amps. At least, mine did. If you are competent with electricity, you can convert it, but it is much more involved than getting a new cord. Do a search on this site. There are several threads that discuss it.

lemosley01 · 06-28-2011, 07:15 AM

Thanks for the information. I'll be sure to verify each time.

Dunnpe · 06-28-2011, 09:38 AM

My 03 Suncruiser had the option and the original owner made the decision to have it installed. Now I see that is a very desired option to have. I just figured that everyone would take that option if given the option. I have actually had every heavy use appliance running when on 50amp shore power along with both compressors in the AC so I know it was just not the 50 amp chord.

lemosley01 · 06-28-2011, 12:53 PM

Yes, I've had some salesemen tell me 'you don't really need it' or 'how often will you need it', as they try to sell me the coach they have that is 30A.

Of course, I'm sure if they have a 50A coach, the tune will change 'you should never buy anything without 50A hookups'.

mrschwarz · 06-28-2011, 06:44 PM

Most of the time you can get away with 30 amps. If you're someplace hot and running both compressors, there's not a lot left for anything else. The EMS that Winnebago uses will keep you out of trouble unless you are running a hair dryer, blender, and toaster all at the same time.

lemosley01 · 06-29-2011, 07:21 AM

You're from Texas, and I'm in the South - 'always hot' is understood.

I'm sure I can get by with it, especially with EMS systems to handle load balancing - people did just fine without EMS and 20/30A for years - but I'm looking at desirability at resale as well.

I figure if I am so picky about it, there are a lot of other people who will be as well.

DriVer · 06-29-2011, 07:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lemosley01

I'm sure I can get by with it, especially with EMS systems to handle load balancing - people did just fine without EMS and 20/30A for years - but I'm looking at desirability at resale as well..

lemosley01, When you get a 50A coach you are actually getting a 100A service with 2 - 50A legs. Now that's something that is undeniably a big plus.