Community Forums

didjelvis · 07-23-2021, 01:30 PM

We have purchased a 2004 Monaco Escaper by Damon Corp in pretty rough shape. I would assume when you have shore power plugged in, it would run everything electrical without batteries. It does run all of the electrical outlets, and the front A/C unit (which may have been replaced). To get the ceiling lights to come on, I have to switch the batteries from store to use (little switch right inside the front door) turn the ceiling lights on at the same location, and everything works. it also makes it so the rear AC works, which looks like original equipment. Is there something wrong with the Automatic transfer relay switch? or do I need to look elsewhere? A diagram or schematic of this system would be super helpful.

BigSkyBob · 07-23-2021, 01:54 PM

In simple terms, it appears to be working as designed. When on 120 VAC the outlets will work. When you connected the batteries that fired up the inverter to provide 12 VDC to operate the lights that are 12 volt.

TonyMac · 07-23-2021, 02:26 PM

"I would assume when you have shore power plugged in, it would run everything electrical without batteries."

Nope. You have two separate but joined electrical circuits, 120vac and 12vdc. Both must be complete circuits to work, and, unless you do some magical electrical boofoonery, the batteries complete the 12vdc circuit. The two circuits are joined by a converter that supplies 12vdc from 120 vac to basically charge and top-off your batteries, and an inverter that supplies limited 120vdc to certain low amperage circuits from 12vdc.

DFord · 07-23-2021, 10:49 PM

The switch you flip to get the ceiling lights to come on is a convenience feature that allows you to turn them on when coming in after dark. Yes, you have to leave them turned on at the fixture so you can control them with the switch by the door.

moisheh · 07-24-2021, 01:15 AM

Monaco coaches were never built by Damon??????

153stars · 07-24-2021, 05:13 AM

AC units use 12vdc as control power plus thermostats, most home HVAC units use 24vac transformer instead and electronics boards actually run on their own small dc power supply . The RV already has DC so they use it. Absorption fridge ,Water heater, furnaces all need 12vdc.

kketterling · 07-25-2021, 12:05 PM

A little history, became part of Thor Industries in 2003, Damon Corporation was merged with Four Winds International to form Thor Motor Coach.

Might try your question via the IRV2 under owners then go to Thor Industries, just in case things work differently then in a Monaco coach.