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WDW · 05-29-2023, 05:28 PM

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I’ve experienced the outer jacket pulling away from the 50 A power plug. I can’t explain why, and for the moment, I’ve wrapped the coated exposed wires in black tape.

Is there a reason to replace the plug if I can seal the area with some shrinkable material?

Is it possible to just use one of the Amazon available replacement plugs? And will that be as good of a connection is what I perceive this pre-molded one to be?

SouthTX · 05-29-2023, 05:50 PM

I've used those replacement plugs and they work very well. Easy to install if you follow the instructions exactly. Measure - don't eyeball - and it is easy to do.

If the original installation pulled out of the keeper it may have also started to pull the wires out of the clamps. Probably won't, but it could start a fire or pop a breaker at the worst possible time. Simple fix and I'd do it. Just wrapping it with tape won't secure the cable and it will only get worse.

brobox · 05-29-2023, 05:56 PM

As SoTX said, replace it. Use one of the replacement plugs that has the handle built in to avoid the problem you just had. I replaced the factory plug on a previous MH because it was so hard to remove.

Turbojack · 05-29-2023, 06:02 PM

Order 2. Then you will have a spare for you or someone around you.

Never say never, but I think your cord cap is OK as long as it is not getting hot when in use

RVFunlovers · 05-29-2023, 06:56 PM

I used a replacement plus on my old Monaco motorhome. That was just 30 amp but what you are describing is what happened to my plug. It was a fairly easy replacement.

When you are pulling max juice (near 50 amps on each leg) if those connections are not solid they can produce heat.

Good Luck.

alank · 05-29-2023, 07:06 PM

The original plug has the wires welded to all the prongs, then the plug is molded around the prongs and wire. Most likely, the outer insulation has shrunk and become shorter to the extent that it pulled away from the molded plug. This is a pretty common occurrence with all types of extension cords with molded ends. I have some smaller ones in my shop that are exactly the same. Electrically, the plug is probably just as good as new, it just doesn't look so good. It's your choice as to if you want to change it, but if it doesn't get hot during normal operation, it's probably fine.

KenZ71 · 05-29-2023, 08:15 PM

As others have said if the plug is not warm while under load most likely it is OK.

But why risk it? Something is off. I replaced my plug with this
MICTUNING 125 250V 50Amp Heavy Duty RV Replacement Male Plug with Ergonomic Handle Yellow https://a.co/d/18SEZjC

If not comfortable doing the swap could ask around at a campground or call out a mobile mechanic.

SailorSam · 05-29-2023, 08:47 PM

I didn't see in the OP post whether the problem is at the power post end or at the RV end...
IF the problem is at the RV end AND the determination is to replace it. It is worth considering upgrading to to a SmartPlug. You will need to replace both the plug and the receptacle on the RV. Smartplugs are more robust and easier to use. No twist lock and retaining ring, simply push on. Electric contacts are larger reducing potential for over heating. All Smartplugs include a reverse polarity indicator which apparently the latest electric code requires.
https://smartplug.com/why-smartplug/

Old-Biscuit · 05-29-2023, 08:52 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by alank

The original plug has the wires welded to all the prongs, then the plug is molded around the prongs and wire. Most likely, the outer insulation has shrunk and become shorter to the extent that it pulled away from the molded plug. This is a pretty common occurrence with all types of extension cords with molded ends. I have some smaller ones in my shop that are exactly the same. Electrically, the plug is probably just as good as new, it just doesn't look so good. It's your choice as to if you want to change it, but if it doesn't get hot during normal operation, it's probably fine.

THIS ^^^^^

Happened to my OEM 50A Cord

I wrapped it and used it until I got a replacement plug
Replacement hasn't done the same shrinking BUT I really made sure the replacement plug 'captured ' the outer sheaf tight.

Gary.Jones · 05-30-2023, 08:29 AM

The great thing about 50 amp service is that the plugs are large and relatively easy to work with. Find a good replacement and figure a good way to roll the copper wire (twist it tight) so you can get a good connection to the electrical terminals.

Gary