Community Forums

Ellis9 · 05-03-2021, 04:07 PM

I have a nasty sounding noise coming from my electrical components by the inverter & breaker panel area. You can easily hear it outside as well. It definitely happens when connected to shore power, but not sure if it does when disconnected, as it's intermittent. It is also getting more frequent. I do need new house batteries-as in getting zero volts across both batteries disconnected.

This is on a '99 Southwind 32'

If the sound file doesn't work, I'll try to fix it.
EDIT: it looks like clicking on the .wav downloads it, but it works.

Thank you

Outbound · 05-03-2021, 04:20 PM

Sounds like your transfer switch contactors are getting due for replacement, I would tighten lugs and also clean/file contacts.

Ellis9 · 05-03-2021, 06:48 PM

Thank you. Is the transfer switch easy to identify? If I need to replace it, what do I use for specs on a new one? I mean if I can't get an exact replacement, does it need to the converter or are there standard transfer switches?

mlpeloquin · 05-03-2021, 07:08 PM

Find your transfer switch on your RV. Then get the manufacture and part number. Look up the specs for it and replace it with the same or one that meet or exceeds the specs of the original. It is best to get the same one since the mounting holes will be an exact fit. Meanwhile do as stated, file the contacts and spray with DeOxit. Do unplug and make sure your generator is off! You can find DeOxit on Amazon. I also use it on the power connector as well as the power post when the socket looks like it has been getting hot. It will remove the oxide and lubricate the contacts. If your power cord had oxide on it, spray it with DeOxit and in real time watch the oxide be remove.

Ray,IN · 05-03-2021, 09:31 PM

Inverter/charger is trying to charge dead/shorted batteries, may soon die too.

gnvrvin · 05-03-2021, 09:56 PM

Disconnect from shore power
Do not run generator
Find transfer.switch and tighten all wire connectors
Blow out contacts to lessen dust

Reconnect.to shore.power
Still noisey?
Disconnect.from.shore.power
Start generator
Hows.the noise
Shut off generator

Try shore power again

Still noisey? Try deoxit.clean contacts

Personally if you need to replace the transfer box I would find a replacement that utilizes DC relays
60hz buzz will be a thing of the past

Let us know what you find out,
Greg

Lowflyer1 · 05-04-2021, 05:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ellis9

Thank you. Is the transfer switch easy to identify? If I need to replace it, what do I use for specs on a new one? I mean if I can't get an exact replacement, does it need to the converter or are there standard transfer switches?

That sound is not like I had when my transfer switch went bad. Mine was much higher frequency buzz. In my situation it was easier to replace the shore side contactor (circled in red). The cover was also cracked but did not contribute to the noise. Once I had the old one out, I found a moth inside between the contacts.
Another thing I discovered in the process while working on this issue: The "Smart EMS Load Meter" up front would most often show 30 amp although hooked up to 50 amp. Apparently the moth was enough insulation to block at least some of the other leg.
After the contactor replacement, it now shows correctly as being hooked up to 50 amps every time.
Attached couple pics of the transfer switch I have.

homerbw · 05-04-2021, 06:30 AM

The sound you hear could also be Electronic Climate Control Energy Management Unit located under your refrigerator. Your transfer switch is behind the 12 volt fuse panel under your refrigerator.

Ellis9 · 05-04-2021, 09:48 AM

Thank for the reply’s.

I’ll see if I can take a pic of what is making the noise. Very hard to access or see what’s going on, plus being intermittent. If i can get to the transfer switch, I’ll tighten/clean it. Is the climate control unit connected to the fridge?

homerbw · 05-04-2021, 01:24 PM

Mine was mounted to the floor. Once they start chattering it is not likely you will be able to fix it even with a new unit. The problem starts at the thermostat which is most likely going bad. The good news is it doesn't chatter all the time and when we stay in dryer climates it stops for longer periods of time.

Ellis9 · 05-05-2021, 09:24 AM

I haven’t heard it since disconnecting the house batteries. But , it’s parked in the drive and I haven’t been out there much. What is the likely cause if it did stop with batteries disconnected? It may be a couple weeks before I can get a couple 6v batteries for it.

Ellis9 · 05-05-2021, 03:13 PM

I have two nice sealed 12v batteries that cam out of a power wheelchair. I believe there nice deep cycle batteries. What’s your thought on installing them in parallel for the house batts - if only temporarily?
I realize they likely won’t the capacity of 2 6v, but we rarely boondock.

twinboat · 05-05-2021, 03:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ellis9

I have two nice sealed 12v batteries that cam out of a power wheelchair. I believe there nice deep cycle batteries. What’s your thought on installing them in parallel for the house batts - if only temporarily?
I realize they likely won’t the capacity of 2 6v, but we rarely boondock.

As long as they can be charged by your RV equipment, they should work.

One overcharge can ruin a sealed battery.