How to Wire a 50-Amp Generator into a 30-Amp RV
In certain circumstances, you may want to plug an RV rated for 30 amps into the 50-amp outlet of a generator. However, the amperage must be stepped down to 30 amps, or you will damage the electrical systems of the RV. The easiest way to do this is with a 50-male-to-30-female connector, universally referred to as a "dogbone" connector because of its appearance. The dogbone adapter is a short, heavy-duty wire joining a 50-amp plug and a 30-amp outlet, and works by connecting only one of the 50-amp outlet's two positive 120-volt legs to its own 30-amp outlet.
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Instructions
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Insert the male end of the 50-male-to-30-female dogbone adapter into the 50-amp outlet on the generator fascia.
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Fire up the generator before plugging in the shore power cord. This is always good practice.
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3
Insert the male end of your RV shore power cord into the 30-amp outlet at the free end of the dogbone adapter.
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Tips & Warnings
Although a 50-amp supply is technically available, 240 volts is not. Because your RV is still protected by its 30-amp circuit breaker board, no circuits or appliances can be exposed to excessive current.
Among the most common reasons such a device might be useful is when the 30-amp outlet on the generator is broken. This is typically caused by overheating the receivers when the RV creates too great a demand and the 30-amp circuit breaker does not trip.
The dogbone adapter should be constructed of heavy-duty materials.
