LPT50CA Transfer Switch

[RedHotSoup]

Having problem with transfer switch, no generator electric in coach. Good voltage (120VAC) at LPT50CA generator terminals but no voltage on load side. Shore power (from power cable) works fine, voltage at power cable input terminals as well as coach side load terminals. Having difficulty finding the Lyght LPT50CA transfer switch. Most RV parts sites offer the LP50BRD as a substitute. The -BRD is somewhat different in appearance and in the way cables are attached. The -BRD also indicates the coils are powered by DC current, guessing produced by the transfer switch control board inside the unit. Has anyone installed the replacement LPT50BRD and if so are there any snags along the way? Thanks for the expert advice forthcoming.

2002 Alpine 38FDDS

[Old Scout]

Not familiar with the BRD model but I did replace my old Lyght 50 amp AC model xfer switch with a DC current powered Lyght model a few years back. Dont remember the source but it was internet. Back then, I think they looked/worked about the same. Advantage of DC current over AC is that DC powered contactors wont hum/chatter like the AC as they get older.

PS...PPL in Houston has the Lyght 50 amp MRD model with DC coils for $166....probably other sources but PPL is pretty good about quick shipping and has good prices.

PSS...RV Power Parts Plus had the BRD model for $144--not sure what the BRD vs MRD is....

[Tom and Patty]

I installed a Parallax T/S that had a bus bar for all the connections, throwing out the old Todd T/S that had at least 9 wire nuts inside.

It was about $250-300 IIRC but it is very well made IMO

[RedHotSoup]

What was the source for your DC current? Did the transfer switch produce the DC necessary?

[Old Scout]

The Lyght 50 amp has full buss bar connections so no wire nuts. Not sure of the physics but appears the DC current is created internally to power the coils--no extra 12v leads to the bats were required.

[Jim&MaryJo]

I had the -BRD installed. The original unit was humming and I could not cure it by cleaning contacts.

It does make its own DC power. It took a tech about an hour to install.
Tech told me he had to run cables a little differently, but there was sufficient cable length to avoid splicing in any extensions.

I was told by the supplier that the -BRD has replaced the orginal -CA model.

[RedHotSoup]

Thanks Jim, that’s the information I was looking for. I was concerned about additional DC wiring and also about the need for cable splicing. The old -CA transfer switch installation was kind of tight with limited cable stress loops. It looks like the LPT50BRD will be a good replacement fit. Ordering the replacement LPT50BRD today, will keep you posted on my replacement installation. Appreciate all the help everyone extended.

[ronmc]

I had to extend the 3 generator cables. Used #5 cable and splice reducers(home Depot). It took little over an hour.