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120-Volt AC Panel Board
The AC panel board section contains the 120 VAC branch circuit
breakers for your RV. One of the breakers controls the 120-Volt
power to the 12-Volt converter section. This breaker may also
control another branch circuit. Check the label next to each
breaker for what each branch circuit breaker controls.
The 120-Volt circuits may be turned on by setting their breaker
handle up to the ON position, or off by setting the handle down
to the OFF position. To reset the tripped breaker, move handle to
OFF then ON.
The system incorporates a GFCI breaker that implements an
auto self-test functionality. When turned off, this breaker requires
external AC power to be present before they can be turned back
on. If AC power is present and the breaker refuses to stay on
consult an electrician or certified RV technician.
Fuses and Breakers
•
Breakers
The distribution panel was designed to use a 30amp120-Volt
main breaker with branch circuits. Double breakers may be used
for the branch circuits. Should a breaker become faulty, replace
with the same type breaker only. Use only approved 120-Volt
circuit breakers and 12V fuses.
NOTE
When replacing circuit breakers, be sure to replace
with the same type and rating as the original.
• 12 VDC Fuses
Each 12 VDC circuit in the distribution panel was designed for a
maximum 20 amp automotive style fuse. Should one need to be
replaced, be sure to replace it with the same type and amp rating
as originally supplied. Replacing it with either a higher or lower
amp fuse could result in the panel not functioning properly.
• REVERSE Polarity Fuses
The converter is equipped with reverse polarity fuses. Should
these fuses "blow" either during the manufacturing process or
while connecting the battery, replace with the same type and
rating fuse as originally provided.
5-8
Automatic Micro-Controller Operation
The power converters 3-stage switch mode is fully automatic. The
converter senses which mode it needs to be in by checking the
condition of the battery. The three modes include:
• Absorption Mode: During this mode the converter output is in
the 13.6 VDC range. This is the normal converter function mode.
This mode provides the 12 VDC and the current required by the
trailer.
• Bulk Mode: In this mode, the output voltage of the converter will
switch to 14.4 VDC range for a maximum of four hours. If the
converter cycles between "Absorption and Bulk modes", there
could be a shorted battery cell or other issues.
• Float Mode: If the trailer has not been used for a period of time
and the shore power has been left plugged in, the converter
will automatically go into float mode with a voltage of 13.2.
When the converter senses a demand, by turning on lights, the
converter automatically returns to absorption mode.
120-Volt Electrical System
•
Shore Power
When your trailer is hooked up to external AC power, the
converter system automatically charges the trailer batteries with
the battery disconnect switch in the ON position and, if the 7-pin
wiring harness is hooked up and depending on your vehicle, your
tow vehicle battery as well. The speed and degree of charge
depends on how much power is used for lights and appliances
as only the surplus goes to charging the battery. If you are
making an extended stay, then you should keep your trailer
hooked up to a 120-Volt current, if it is available.
While you are connected to external AC power, the wiring is
protected by circuit breakers in the breaker panel. The circuit
breaker panel for the 120-Volt system is located in the converter.
In the event of a failure of a120-Volt circuit, first check your
trailer circuit breakers and the breaker for the outlet into which
your trailer shoreline cord is plugged. If a breaker continues to
trip after you have reset it several times, your circuit may be
overloaded with appliances or there may be a short in the circuit.
Try lessening the load on the circuit. If that does not solve the
problem, consult an Airstream Service Center.
The 120-Volt electrical system provides power to operate the air
conditioner, microwave, converter, and 120-Volt receptacles for
portable appliances. The power is carried through the 120-Volt
city power flexible cord to the 120-Volt distribution panel and
then is distributed to each appliance or receptacle. All wire,
components and wiring methods conform to federal and state
requirements.
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