It's time to come clean....

[The Danes Are Coming]

OK, here goes - I have not been honest with you all. I have been pretending long enough and I have decided that it's time to own up and admit is :

My abilities are impaired when it comes to RV electrics. That's it - the whole world knows and I am proud........

There are so much stuff that I would like to change, improve and modify, but since my knowledge is limited I don't get around to do it.

Example 1: I hate my florescent lights in the ceiling and would like to change them to regular 12V light fittings or even LED lights. Example 2: I would like to add another cigarette lighter type outlet. These just to mention a couple of examples.

I was wondering - is there anything out there like "RV electrics for dummies"? Does anyone know where to find tutorials about RV electrics? I am keen to learn but can't seem to get started.

I have the utmost respect for electrics in general and I have no desire to compromise safety in any shape or form and I therefore need to acquire knowledge before starting any projects whatsoever.

Your assistance is much appreciated.

["007"]

Its always good to acquire some knowledge of your coach's electric system, here is a link that will get you started and can expand as far as you want to.
Here is another for basic systems in your coach.
Here is another to make you an expert.
As you can see there is allot of reading and links you can save for reference material.
Now for the easy part check this link for a easy upgrade of your lights if they are florescent.
You can always go to the Quick Tips link below and see what others have done to their coachs also.
Do not be over whelmed it takes time to gain the confidence just unplug the 110 cord, you can always change a 12v fuse.

[dajudge]

It's very easy dane. All lights are 12 volts, no danger of getting electrocuted!!!! At least, i don'think so. If you were close to my location i could teach you in no time at all. The only problem i see, is if your flourescent are recessed, this might be a problem. You may just have to change to a different flourescent bulb. I can't imagine why you need so much light. Gonna do surgery or something ?????

[Batman_777]

Sometimes it's best to let the professionals do the work... When in doubt... Don't

Fluorescent lights are 110v

There was once a cartoon about this

[dieselclacker]

Fluorescent lights are 110v quote from Batman



Huh?

Dieselclacker

[KIX]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Batman_777 Sometimes it's best to let the professionals do the work... When in doubt... Don't Fluorescent lights are 110v There was once a cartoon about this

Not so in an RV. They have a 12VDC (volt direct current) ballast that further reduces voltage to the bulb to excite the gas in the bulb.

In a stick house the flourescent fixture will have a 120VAC (volt alternating current) ballast that reduces voltage to the bulb.

Of course, Batman, your personal Batmobile may be differrent.

[RV Wizard]

The Diplomat should have all 12 vdc lighting but could have 120 vac lighting in the kitchen. I have seen both in the middle & upper end coaches. You do want to respect electricity and understand how you can become a conductor to be safe.
Anyone can learn about and service electrical systems safely with a little knowledge and training. To modify and alter these systems may take a bit more training and experience depending on severity.

[GaryKD]

Hi Great Dane,

Finding a company that you trust to work on your coach may be difficult. Newmar has started servicing all brands of coaches. Consider contacting them. I have my coach serviced there once a year. The factory techs are very good. They work with you quite well. Let them know what you want to do and they can provide an estimate of the cost. You may be surprise how reasonable the cost is. They have camp sites so you can stay in your coach at night. The person to contact is Phil Stilley at 1-800-731-8300, ext. 3195. or PSTILLEY@newmarcorp.com.

There is plenty to see and do in the area, time during the day passes quickly.

[Jackm]

Amazon.com: RV Electrical Systems: A Basic Guide to Troubleshooting, Repairing and Improvement (9780070427785): Bill Moeller, Jan Moeller: Books

This is a well-respected book on the subject.

Jack