Total electrical/power shutdown while driving.

[Brandan]

My wife and I purchased a 2000 Tradewinds 7350 recently. While driving from California from Oregon we kept experiencing a total loss of electrical power to the dash/instruments and anything that was 12 volt related to the chassis/engine (300 turbo cat). It would happen at random times, usually at night, and when it happened everything would shut down. The first thing that would happen is the dash warning lights would start flashing, the buzzer would sound, and then everything, including the engine, would shut down...even the emergency flashers! After turning off the key for a few seconds, and restarting, everything would work normally. This happened several times. We noticed that this would happen more frequently when the air brake was engaged, but would also occur without it.

The engine and transmission temperatures were normal and there were no error codes showing up. We checked the oil and transmission fluid levels and all were good. Has anyone else experienced this problem? Or does anyone have any idea what could be causing this? Any and all help is appreciated.

[bdpreece]

Start looking for loose/dirty/corroded ground connections particularly the main grounds from the battery compartment to the frame and also the main engine ground post to frame.

[RVhauler]

and also battery condition

[Brandan]

Checked and cleaned all of the grounds and checked the battery condition. Problem still persists. Called Freightliner and found out that there is a 135 amp auto- resetting breaker in the back by the starter that supplies 12 volt power to the front power stud and that it occasionally goes bad and causes this problem. I have ordered a new one and will keep you posted as to the outcome, good or bad. Thanks!

[Brandan]

Per Freightliners recommendation I replaced the 135 amp fuses (turns out there was two of them) and cleaned and tightened all of the electrical connections I could find. We have been on the road since May and have not had any electrical issues whatsoever (except for the generator, which is on another post). Thanks for the help!