What is Usually Involved to go From 30 Amp to 50 Amp Power Setup on RV

Updated 06/29/2026 | Published 06/25/2026

Question:

I have a 2021 Forest River Sunseeker 3010DS. I would like information on converting the unit from 30amp to 50amp, the estimated time required to do this install and a rough cost. Thanks for your attention to this request.

asked by: Paul B

Expert Reply:

Hey Paul, to go from a 30 amp setup to a 50 amp on your 2021 Forest River Sunseeker 3010DS is a major update/overhaul to your electrical system as basically everything has to be replaced to handle the higher amperage. Everything from the shore power cord, to the distribution panel/transfer switch, and then rewiring the interior with 6 gauge wire. It is strongly recommended you find an electrician to do it all safely. A rough cost would be hard to estimate.

Take this with a grain of salt but converting an RV from 30-amp to 50-amp service is a complex upgrade. Professional conversions typically cost between $2,000 and $6,000+, depending on labor and parts. DIY costs range from $300 to $800 in raw materials, but this involves highly advanced electrical work that risks voiding warranties or causing fires if done improperly. The fire thing might sound hyperbolic but it actually it actually is a legit concern if you don't do everything right.

expert reply by: Jameson C

Paul B.

6/26/2026

Thanks for the response. Most of this I was aware of so maybe I didn't ask my question clear enough. Does etrailer do these conversions? What would be the process to get your companies estimate for time and cost? How far out would it need to be scheduled? On my unit the run requiring replacement of 10ga wire with 6ga appears to be very simple and If I'm correct that is the only wiring that would require replacement (distribution panel as well of course). I would leave the 30amp transfer switch in place as I do not plan to replace the generator, and have it supply only one leg of the distribution panel for select items (front AC, converter/charge circuit primarily and a few outlets that are already segmented). Hopefully this provides a little clarity. Thanks again

Jameson C.

6/29/2026

@PaulB We don't do that conversion here generally. That would be something we would refer out to an electrician. Especially now that our one installer who was an electrician no longer works here.

Paul S.

6/27/2026

As an electrician with 40 years experience i share etrailers concerns. A 50 amp service involves 2 120 amp legs each fused at 50 amps so everything from the service pedestal to the panel needs to have the ampacity to handle 50 amps including the transfer switch, wiring and panel. A 30 amp transfer switch only isolates one of the hot legs leaving the potential to have power from both the utility service and the generator present at the panel at the same time.