Surfside converter grounding

[JasonGill]

I have a ‘79 surfside with the original power converter (see photos). I’ve boondocked a few times and took along my 600 watt portable power unit plugged the shoreline power cord from the converter into one of the AC outlets of the power box. I’ve been able to power up the trailer including interior lights, fans and AC receptacles, basically using the power box as a substitute for shore power.

Now for my questions:

1. There doesn’t seem to be a dedicated wire running from the grounding screw of the converter directly to the metal trailer frame. Should there be one? The shore power supply cord has its ground wire connected to this screw.

2. The panel of the converter says 12V AC. I always thought the 12V power coming out of the converter was DC. Is this not the case?

Here’s a link to my power box.

https://www.canadiantire.ca/en/pdp/m...2014p.html#plp

[Joe MacDonald]

newer converters would be DC, some of the old ones used AC, these would not charge a battery, but would run 12v lighting.
there doesn't appear to be a DC section in that unit, and someone has definitely been playing with the wiring looking at the crimp taps that were added.

I would consider an entire new unit if you are going to do a lot of camping with services.

Joe

[oldwave]

Looks dangerous. A new converter would be a wise choice. Progressive dynamics would be a great choice. If you call bestconverters.com they can advise you.

[Darwin Maring]

What you have there is a transformer to make the 12VAC. Even though it looks rusty, that thing should last forever and I dont think it is dangerous. As far as 12VAC, I see no use for it and go along with others and recommend a new unit that will give you the DC power you need and to charge your battery if you have one. If you do not have a battery or need 12VDC then I would just leave things alone.

[oldwave]

What’s dangerous in my opinion is inadequate grounding. I have personally been shocked back in the old days with wet ground and a similar system .

[Darwin Maring]

Originally Posted by oldwave

What’s dangerous in my opinion is inadequate grounding. I have personally been shocked back in the old days with wet ground and a similar system .

You are absolutely correct about that.