Automatic Transfer Switch

[leeines]

I lost all AC power in my '07 Monaco Knight two nights ago. I suspected the RV Park power and checked the circuit breaker. No problem there! I traced the problem to either the surge protector I installed, prior to the transfer switch or the transfer switch. Next morning I popped open the transfer switch box and discovered one terminal on the bus between line and load wiring showed signs of melting and the two wires on either side of the terminal showed burnt insulation.
I will replace the switch, IOTA Engineering ITS 50R and the wiring soon. I jury rigged the wiring to allow AC power to the coach again while I wait new parts.
Anyone out there have similar problems? What causes this? I did check to see that all terminal lugs were tight.
Are there solid state transfer switches available and is one recommended?
Thanks in advance to all who can advise me.
Thanks,
Lee O. - Currently in Eagle Nest RV Resort, near Polson, MT

[RV Wizard]

Loose connections is most likely reason the wiring insulation melted. As long as the gage of the wire is rated for the amperage draw, there should be no issue of overheating, if the connections are clean and tight.

[leeines]

If the lugs for the wires were tight, yet the terminal strip and wires showed evidence of high heat with insulation melted and the plastic under the terminal strip showing signs of melting what else besides loose connections could cause this?
Could a problem with the coils for the solenoid connections cause this problem?
Thanks in advance for any comments.
Lee O.

[RJay]

Corrosion on the conductor or terminal, or not enough surface area of the wire in contact with the terminal.