Recommendations For AC/DC Panel and Converter Along with Wiring, for a Scamp  

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Helpful Expert Reply:

First off, congrats on the Scamp, those are great little fiberglass units that last for years. Generally speaking we suggest that electrical wiring, for safety purposes, be done by licensed electricians or certified RV Techs. But as for the items and why, let me begin with the AC/DC distribution panel. I recommend the Progressive Dynamics Mighty Mini AC/DC Panel and Converter/Smart Charger, # PD4045KA at 45 Amps. There is also a 60 Amp version, # PD4060K, but the 45 amp version is well suited for your little Scamp.

When talking about shore power, primarily from the power pedestals at campsites, there is typically an option of either 50 amp or 30 amp AC power. For some of us, I am including myself, it needs to be remembered that when talking amps there is a change from the 30 amp 120VAC input at the pedestal, to the 12VDC conversion then available from the distribution panel. The amps rating available increases greatly when converting from your AC power inlet to 12VDC.

This Mighty Mini, # PD4045KA, will take the electrical power being input from your electrical cord, be it plugged into a generator or "shore power" from the pedestal at the campground and provide up to a full 45 amps of charge to your battery bank (This is listed as converter output, your onboard battery charger). It will also have a AC distribution of up to 7 branch circuits each rated at 30 amps. Although just like at your house, your total on one circuit be up to a certain value but you cannot max out all 7 circuits at the same time because cumulative the value is greater than max of the unit. But for your Scamp you won't be using all 7 circuits anyway. And these will use the same type of breaker that is found in residential homes. I suggest that the campers air conditioner unit is on its own circuit.

For DC distribution, you will have 2 each 30 amp circuits available, these are fused. And 10 each 20 amp. This will be used for your water pump on your sink, toilet if equipped etc. and lights or any other items that you want to operate from 12VDC power.

If you have your 30 amp plug in place and it is in good repair/serviceable, great; one less item to replace. However, if you need to replace that inlet, I suggest, the SmartPlug RV Power Inlet and Connector - 30 Amp, # SM27FR in black. ( # SM77FR - white, # SM87FR - Gray, # SM67FR - SS.)

If you are replacing your outlets, which is probably not a bed idea as inexpensive as they are. Just source those locally at your hardware store, along with the needed breakers and wiring for AC. The AC distribution side of the Mighty Mini is similar to the distribution box at your house, once properly installed, the outlets are wired similarly. For your DC side, I suggest using at least a 10 gauge wire such as, # 10-1-1. If you were wiring something larger than a 13' Scamp I suggest increasing to an 8 gauge due the length of runs you would be making. But that isn't needed for a your Scamp. We have a selection of fuses, I created a link below to the options available such as the Standard Fuse Kit - 5 Amps to 30 Amps - 60 Pieces, # PT52FR.

Please note the linked product review videos below and few help articles that thought you may appreciate reviewing.

expert reply by: Michael R

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