Community Forums

Mody n Domy · 06-07-2015, 06:50 AM

My 50 amp plug has pulled away from the cords protective sheathing exposing the insulated wires inside. What would be the best way to protect the plug sheathing separation? I was thinking of installing heat shrink tubing if I can find some that would fit over the end of the plug. If there would be a better solution I would like to know before I disconnect the cord from the surge protector so I can slide the shrink tubing over it all the way to the plug end.

Bumps · 06-07-2015, 07:01 AM

Can you Plasti-Dip it a dozen or so times? Then peel away the dried dip from the face of the plug (and its connectors)? Maybe start with a couple wraps with good electrical tape for support? \ken

Jim T. · 06-07-2015, 07:13 AM

Most all motorhome dealers with retail stores will have a replacement plug connection for your 50amp cord. Cut the old one off, strip back the wires & attach the new end. Buy the yellow one because it comes with a handy handle! Just ensure that you reattach correctly. Directions are included.

Jim & Shirley & Abbie (Scottie)
2013 Newmar Canyon Star 3911
2005 Dodge Grand Caravan

**CLIFFTALL** · 06-07-2015, 07:16 AM

I wrapped it with electrical tape until I was able to get a new end and replaced it as mentioned above.

doc · 06-07-2015, 07:26 AM

I have used that yellow replacement plug on a 30 amp trailer we had. I just didn't think the plug contacts were as long as the original. Why don't you measure them on both types and see. I never was sure and have long since sold the trailer.

ctpres · 06-07-2015, 07:34 AM

I had same problem Just let cord sit in full sun on a hot day. Wrap other end around tree or post. Then start several feet away from plug pulling insulation towards plug working your way back to plug. Back up a couple feet and repeat.

Jim T. · 06-07-2015, 07:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by doc

I have used that yellow replacement plug on a 30 amp trailer we had. I just didn't think the plug contacts were as long as the original. Why don't you measure them on both types and see. I never was sure and have long since sold the trailer.

Owned 3 class As since 1990, 2 30amps, 1 50amp. One of the first things I did with each of them was replace the OEM plug. NEVER had a problem! The handle makes it SO much easier to plug & unplug.

BTW, I think the brandname is Camco. Hope you can get one from your local dealer's store, but if you can't, CW (Ugh) carries them.

Jim & Shirley & Abbie (Scottie)
2013 Newmar Canyon Star 3911
2005 Dodge Grand Caravan

nothermark · 06-07-2015, 08:08 AM

When the sheath pulls back it's because the molded plug did not capture it properly as they made it. I like the idea of letting it get warm and working the sheath back toward the cable end but once I knew it was moving I would load the gap with RTV, finish working the sheath closed and let it cure for a day or two.

If you are living in the unit and need to have it plugged in use a piece of something you can tie to the sheat 6 inches or so below the repair and then tie off the other end to pull up and relieve the strain on the repair while it cures. You want a solid seal to keep water out when you are done.

hdossett · 06-07-2015, 08:20 AM

I had the same thing a few years ago. At one park I was having problems getting a good connection and thought I was my plug, so I ordered a new one to replace it. There was not a problem whit the plug itself, it must have been a bad post.

Anyway, I liked the handle on the replacement plug!

Mody n Domy · 06-07-2015, 09:14 AM

I dont think the yellow cord end would fit through the opening that the cord goes through I can barely fit the standard plug through. I'm not sure if RTV would hold up very long we full time and move quite often. Thanks for your input I think I will try to find heat shrink electrical tubing I have seen it where the tubing has a heat activated adhesive to make it water resistant. This would bond the plug to sheathing.

Jim T. · 06-07-2015, 10:38 AM

You can get a 3M Tape that will shrink with heat source applied. Go to big box store or electric supply store.

Jim & Shirley & Abbie (Scottie)
2013 Newmar Canyon Star 3911
2005 Dodge Grand Caravan

wa8yxm · 06-08-2015, 06:16 AM

If it is an original plug and the plug is still in good condition.. I might use GOOP to re-join and then after it sets RESCUE TAPE (This silicon tape you can get in assorted places)

if it's a replacement plug..Shorten the cord an inch.

NOTE: this retraction of the outer sheath is very common.. The cause is UV radiation (Sunlight in short).