Finding A Proper Ground For LED Clearance Light # MCL76RB

Published 12/01/2022

Question:

1982 Sunline 16.5 I found a ground lug I think is supposed to be attached to the frame - but very poorly. Its right next to the converter, has a heavy white wire to the lug in the converter, plus a bare wire which may attach to the converter case I cant see it. The lug is attached to a SS bolt into the floor which I assume goes through a frame rail. Its very loose, and tightening the nut only compresses the plywood floor. Climbing underneath to see whats happening is super difficult for me due to age and disability. Theres an aluminum underbelly that rests right on the frame rails. Id like to squeeze a lock nut in between frame and aluminum, and tighten it securely to the rail. Ill have to have someone do it for me of course. Is this a good approach?

asked by: Jim M

Expert Reply:

Yes, but first you need to verify what that white wire attaches to in the panel. If that's the neutral which white wire normal indicates then they should absolutely NOT attach that to the frame. In an RV the ground goes to the frame, and neutrals go to their own bar. Attaching the neutral to the frame can allow power to travel through the RV frame and seriously hurt someone. If that is not the case you will have no issues squeezing in a lock nut in between the frame and the aluminum underbelly on your 1982 Sunline 16.5. All metals conduct electricity, and aluminum is a very good electrical conductor. If the aluminum object is in contact to the ground, it will indeed conduct electricity to the ground (lock nut) and will power The LED Clearance or Side Marker Light w/ Reflector # MCL76RB.

If you have any further questions please feel free to reach back out to me and I will be more than happy to further assist you in your towing endeavors.

expert reply by: Noah E