Surge protector/transfer switch

[Tom Webber]

I have a 2006 Monterey.  We had a lightening strike today right at the unit or very close. The surge protector/transfer switch worked but is now fried. Anyone have an idea where to purchase new one quickly at a reasonable price?  I see Camping World sells the same model as I have on line for $615. 
I have a mobile rv tech coming Monday to bypass the switch but I guess I should purchase a surge protector until I get the new unit installed. I guess no lights or TV until Monday.
Any thoughts are appreciated.

[Joel Ashley]

Don’t know what your deductible is, but consider calling your insurance agent.

https://www.google.com/shopping/product/2111833552654174090?q=surgeguard40350rvc&client=safari&hl=en-us&biw=1112&bih=732&tbs=vw:l,ss:67&prmd=mvin&prds=num:1,of:1,epd:3147496794601319472,paur:ClkAsKraX9wuLSIcNeVnZuXL4awOQXY_-TEcyrcLtcP87suf_25BW9uf1c3Y0ZtFwx6Y3rJFplqDD4u5tqzPwPGvQG01ED7BmGauFV6XX6gwIt_BN5qBBJxfixIZAFPVH73uUgWre5UTD31ebYZCBk2cxjuIjg,prmr:1,cs:1

https://rvpower.southwire.com/products/transfer-switches/50a-hardwire-model-40350-rvc-automatic-transfer-switch/

[Bill Sprague]

On lesser motorhomes it is common to not have an automatic transfer switch.  Instead you plug the power cord into the shore power post or generator.  Cord ends are far cheaper than $600.  For surge protection, there are basic portable versions that are in the $100 range at Amazon. 

So, if it were me and I wanted to save some money, I would have the RV tech do the bypass with new cord ends. 

https://www.amazon.com/Camco-PowerGrip-Replacement-Transform-55255/dp/B000PGVZ30/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=50+amp+rv+plug&qid=1557065382&s=automotive&sr=1-3

https://www.amazon.com/MICTUNING-Female-Replacement-Receptacle-Ergonomic/dp/B07DJ79R75/ref=pd_bxgy_3/145-4398850-6441645?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B07DJ79R75&pd_rd_r=76b7079a-6f3f-11e9-9381-ffdfe42e5ee6&pd_rd_w=4ICGD&pd_rd_wg=Yc4as&pf_rd_p=a2006322-0bc0-4db9-a08e-d168c18ce6f0&pf_rd_r=QY6EM6ACRJVC7BFSHTTA&psc=1&refRID=QY6EM6ACRJVC7BFSHTTA

[Mike Shumack]

Anyone have an idea where to purchase new one quickly at a reasonable price?

I don't think "cheap and reasonable price" is possible when you add "RV" to the equation.

My coach came with the Surge Guard 40250-RVC transfer switch. It looks like that model was replaced with the 40350-RVC. It's not cheap (IMO) at $730 but it is a good unit. I would not want the cheapest device in my coach. It serves an important function. Of course if you can find a similar device (with proven reputation, and where you don't have to cut/modify any wiring to install it) at a better price then go for it.

I see they have another unit that has more functions, the 40450-RVC. I couldn't find a price for it - but if it was just $50 or so more, I would be inclined to get that one.

BTW- I have read about a number of meltdowns inside the transfer switch due to loose terminals. So anyone that has not checked the wire terminals screws (in the last 5+ years) inside their transfer switch, it would be a good idea to do so.

[Jerry Emert]

A little off track but...I'm at the Ramblin Pushers Maintenance Rally in Goshen IN now.  I attended a presentation by Mike Sokal on the electrical systems.  He is pretty famous in the RV electrical world. He discussed transfer switches and the fires that often occur.  He also said that contacts should be tightened but he also pointed out that the contacts are supposed to be torqued to 25-35 inch pounds using a torque screw driver.  He noted that this value is noted on the inside of the TS cover.  I've seen many posts saying to tighten these screws every year or so but not about the torque value.  25-35 inch pounds isn't much!  Just thought I would "share!"  Happy Camping.

[Tom Webber]

Joel I was able to purchase a transfer switch/surge protector on eBay for $572.00 no tax and free shipping. Should receive between Thursday and Monday. It was the same model that took the lightening hit. I will keep in mind the torque requirements. In my opinion not the place to skimp on cost.

[Fred Brooks]

   Hi Guys,
  If you replace the Surge Guard 40250 RVC with the replacement 40350 RVC, you will also have to change the remote monitor. Keep in mind a 700.00 sacrificial surge protector is far cheaper than 5000.00 in repair bills after a lightning strike has wiped out every pc board in your coach. I think we all lose sight that our coaches have to exist in such a hostile envoirment.
  Blessings & Joy, Fred Brooks

[Mike Tomas]

that contacts should be tightened but he also pointed out that the contacts are supposed to be torqued to 25-35 inch pounds using a torque screw driver.

Meh. With all my mobile News Van Engineering (I managed a fleet of 7 vehicles) I just placed one Internal Tooth Lock Washer at the top of the screw right up at the head and spades and everything else below it. Several years later when I had to replace the relay or add a spade to the barrier strip, I'd find the screw had to snap a little to break free to turn. I put them on everything Electrical screw like in all the vans. Worked Great. None of them ever came loose. They stayed tight.

[Mike Shumack]

Fred, my 40250 has an internal shunt (the black doughnut thing) that reads the current and sends that info to the Aladdin. It looks like that could be easily be moved to a new Transfer switch.

Mike, these wire terminal screws don't have "heads" they are just a slotted screw-stud, but the lock washer idea is good for other screws throughout the coach.

[Bill Lampkin]

Those little doughnuts are actually a current transformer (CT). The output is a small voltage that is proportional to the current flowing in the wire. They must be reinstalled in the same orientation as they were removed, otherwise you will get negative current values on your Aladdin. Mark one side of the CT as 'top' or some other nomenclature and reinstall the same way.

[Mike Shumack]

Yes. Thanks Bill. I couldn’t recall the correct name.