Chassis Electrical; Coach Electrical; Converter/Inverter - Thor Motor Coach 2011 Avanti Owner's Manual

Table of Contents

The basic utility systems in your unit can be classified under two general titles, Electrical,

and Propane. This section outlines these systems, describing their function, operation,

and simple maintenance. This section is not intended as a service guide. Should a problem

arise, we recommend that you contact your Thor Motor Coach dealer.

The electrical system in your motorhome is designed and built in accordance with the

latest codes, standards, and regulations effective at the time of construction. It consists

of two types of systems, alternating current (AC) 120 Volt service and direct current (DC)

12 Volt service. Because of the many model variations and options, it is not possible to

provide wiring diagrams in this manual. We recommend that any electrical work be done

by a Thor Motor Coach dealer or a qualified RV electrician.

The chassis electrical system is separate from the coach electrical system, except for the

emergency start which may provide power from the auxiliary batteries to the chassis

battery. The chassis system gets its power from the automotive battery, providing power

to all of the dash controls and their functions. If any chassis electrical system should fail,

first check the fuses at the circuit panel under the interior dash on the drivers' side. These

are automotive type fuses, which are available at many service stations. The dash fuses

will be located either under the dash on the drivers' side, or in the Battery Control Center

(BCC) in the compartment behind the drivers' front tire.

Replace fuses or bulbs only with those of equivalent size and

type as marked on the fuse or bulb. Incorrect sizing will not match

component circuitry causing a possible electrical hazard.

The direct current (DC) system supplies all the power to operate the 12 Volt devices in

your vehicle. It is made up of four parts:

1. Auxiliary Coach Batteries

2. Chassis Batteries

3. Converter/Inverter

4. Battery Control Center (BCC)

The system has been designed to provide adequate power during travel, dry camping or

campground use.

When shore power is unavailable, the coach batteries power all house 12 Volt devices. The

coach batteries are of the golf cart variety and are capable of being deeply discharged.

With a large reserve rating, the batteries are able to provide limited use for several days

before needing to be recharged. Because of the large power rating, the batteries must be

recharged for a minimum of 24 hours to reach a full charge.

Never expose batteries to open flame or electrical spark. Chemical

action in the battery generates hydrogen gas which is flammable

and explosive. Do not allow battery electrolyte (battery acid) to

contact skin, eyes, fabric, or painted surfaces. Wear eye protection when working with

batteries.

Charging of the batteries comes from one of two sources, the engine alternator or the

converter. When driving, circuitry in the BCC (Battery Control Center) directs charging

current from the chassis electrical system to the coach battery bank. When power from

either the campsite or generator is present, the converter charges the batteries while

also providing power for the house circuits. The converter is an electronic device with

an output rating of 70 amps DC (Direct Current) for units equipped with 50 amp AC

(Alternating Current) service. It is connected directly to the coach batteries through the

battery disconnect in the BCC. All of the converter's output, minus the house power

needs, is available to charge the batteries. These units are equipped with a three-stage

charger, to control the demand for charge directed to the batteries.

Chapter 7 - Technical Systems