Looking for source for short 30A power cord

[hobo]

Trying to find a source for a short power cord simply to run from my generator in my basket to the inlet on the front curbside of the trailer.  Maybe something in the five to six foot range.  I hate using the much longer cord for that purpose as it gets in the way.  Any suggestions??

[NCeagle]

I've not seen anything under 25'.  You could easily make one any size you wanted with the two ends (about $20 each on Amazon) and some 10/3 gauge wire.

[Patriot]

hobo-  This is what I use. Made right here in Raleigh, NC and not cheap. It’s a high quality cord.

- Patriot

Edited March 13, 2021 by Patriot

[NCeagle]

I didn't think of an extension cord.  I was looking at the twist lock variety since I would be worried about it working it's way out while driving.

[Patriot]

11 minutes ago, NCeagle said:

I didn't think of an extension cord.  I was looking at the twist lock variety since I would be worried about it working it's way out while driving.

NCeagle -This is what I use for stationary or campsite use. I am not quite sure what you mean while out driving? When in transport I unplug the gen, I secure the cord.  It stores nicely.

 

Edited March 13, 2021 by Patriot

[NCeagle]

12 minutes ago, Patriot said:

NCeagle -This is what I use for stationary or campsite use. I am not quite sure what you mean while out driving? When in transport I unplug the gen, I secure the cord.  It stores nicely.

 

Yeah, it's a whole different topic, but I was thinking more of folks that want to cool down their trailer before pulling into the campsite and so run it while driving.  Maybe that's just for the big "RVs" with built in generators.  I don't know if it would actually work to run the generator in the basket while driving to "pre-cool" the trailer if pulling in late.

[Patriot]

1 hour ago, NCeagle said:

Yeah, it's a whole different topic, but I was thinking more of folks that want to cool down their trailer before pulling into the campsite and so run it while driving.  Maybe that's just for the big "RVs" with built in generators.  I don't know if it would actually work to run the generator in the basket while driving to "pre-cool" the trailer if pulling in late.

Oh I see what you mean. Cool! pun intended! 😊 

[John E Davies]

2 hours ago, NCeagle said:

Yeah, it's a whole different topic, but I was thinking more of folks that want to cool down their trailer before pulling into the campsite and so run it while driving.  Maybe that's just for the big "RVs" with built in generators.  I don't know if it would actually work to run the generator in the basket while driving to "pre-cool" the trailer if pulling in late.

It would work, but I think it would be not be prudent for many safety reasons. Plus portable generators are not designed to be running while in motion. You could possibly damage the engine, but some folks do get away with it. 

https://campergrid.com/running-rv-generator-while-driving/

In your shoes, I would try to stop nearby before arrival, and run the generator and AC while stationary, then shut it down and proceed. There is no reason you couldn’t do it during the day at rest stops too. That will give you a head start on getting rid of the thermal load. Traveling with a couple of windows cracked open helps, but not if it is dusty! I won’t tow at highway speed with any roof vents open.

John Davies

Spokane WA

[NCeagle]

Good article.  I agree.  I don't even carry or plan to carry a generator in my "generator box".  That's where I keep all my chocks and blocks and locks. 

I like the idea of putting some chill in the cabin (and batteries in your case 😉 ) whenever stopped on warm/hot days.

[Pat Maundrell]

Good question! I'd like one too. I thought I saw an Oliver Video which showed a short 30 Amp Cord with the extra 30 Amp optional outlet, however I haven't been able to find it again.  

[ScubaRx]

7 hours ago, hobo said:

Trying to find a source for a short power cord simply to run from my generator in my basket to the inlet on the front curbside of the trailer.  Maybe something in the five to six foot range.  I hate using the much longer cord for that purpose as it gets in the way.  Any suggestions??

I looked for one 13 years ago for that very reason with Hull #026. No luck, I built one. It is about three feet long and perfectly goes from the generator to the front of Hull #050, our current Oliver. 

Not being aware I was not supposed to, I have been known to run the generator while under tow, but with no apparent problems. I suppose I’ll just chalk that up as further justification of our Oliver’s name...The Outlaw Oliver.

I’m still using the same generator I bought in 2008 for the first Oliver. It has ridden in the baskets of both trailers for over 150K miles and has been on every trip we’ve ever been on. 
 

I would just purchase the parts to make my own cord. That way, it will be perfect for your application. 

[John E Davies]

The problem with a regular RV male plug is that it doesn’t have a lock ring, so all the stress is on those weak, soft plastic and brass inside parts. So traveling with one of those connected is not at all good for it, nor is it good for the generator connection! I found a good marine cord, 12 feet long. I doubt that anybody makes one shorter with the correct marine plug.

Marinco 30A 12 feet

John Davies

Spokane WA

Edited March 13, 2021 by John E Davies