Coast Resorts Open Roads Forum: Tech Issues: Inverter on Generator wiring?
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 > Inverter on Generator wiring?

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1995brave

San Antonio, TX

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Posted: 09/30/23 06:47am Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

Mine came with a second ATS built into the inverter. I'm in the process of changing over to Lifepo4 batteries and a 2000 watt inverter. I picked up a second ATS just for the inverter and wiring it right after the generator ATS. My Lithium charger will be wired at the same location.

time2roll

Southern California

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Posted: 09/30/23 08:43am Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

A transfer switch to isolate the power sources is required.

What inverter are you installing? Some do not like to be wired in to an electrical system.


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Veebyes

Bermuda & Maryland Eastern Shore

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Posted: 09/30/23 09:31am Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

I was in the same situation. My method of solving the problem was more basic.

I ran a short line from the generator input with a female plug at the end. From the inverter I ran a line from one of the output sockets with a male plug at the end.

The ATS is easily reached so when the inverter is used i simply plug it in. There is a remote switch inside to turn it on.

Unplugged there is no way to backfeed and fry the inverter.


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pianotuna

Regina, SK, Canada

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Posted: 09/30/23 09:36am Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

Hi,

I chose manual plugs.

Never back feed.

What is the make and model of the inverter?


Regards, Don
My ride is a 28 foot Class C, 256 watts solar, 556 amp-hours of Telcom jars, 3000 watt Magnum hybrid inverter, Sola Basic Autoformer, Microair Easy Start.

Veebyes

Bermuda & Maryland Eastern Shore

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Posted: 09/30/23 02:48pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

I was in the same situation. My method of solving the problem was more basic.

I ran a short line from the generator input with a female plug at the end. From the inverter I ran a line from one of the output sockets with a male plug at the end.

The ATS is easily reached so when the inverter is used i simply plug it in. There is a remote switch inside to turn it on.

Unplugged there is no way to backfeed and fry the inverter.

wa8yxm

Davison Michigan (East of Flint)

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Posted: 09/30/23 03:53pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

Just remember to disable the converter when on Inverter power.


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timelinex

AZ

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Posted: 10/01/23 10:40pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

Alright everyone, I finished all the work today. I replaced my non-lithium converter with a new 60a lithium compatible one that I put by the batteries. I installed a Bluetooth shunt to monitor use. Then I installed the inverter by the batteries and put it on the wall.

I decided against tapping into the generator wiring with a manual switch. After opening the junction box, I decided to hook everything back up and skip this idea. Many reasons. I saw its some very heavy gauge wires leading out, which are a pain to work with. I would also need to custom fab a way to attach the switch to the box....or take out the box completely whoch would leave some ugly marks that I would have to fix as well. Lastly, while the switch is good, getting all that heavy gauge wire in there would be a major PIA.

I concluded that for right now, plugging in my shore power into the inverter will do. Then when I get some more time and motivation (not anytime soon with 2 young toddlers running around!), just go and do it the right way as it won't even take that much longer than this half baked solution (adding another ATS).

The only thing I want to do sometime soon is move all my battery connections to a nice Bus Bar and replace a few of the battery wires with thicker replacements. some of the factory ones and ones that came with the equipment are definitely too thin for the potential amps (Dont worry, still nothing under like 6ga).

I appreciate all the feedback here. It has helped me prevent some mistakes and ultimately guided me to the best outcome for the day!

* This post was edited 10/02/23 08:04am by timelinex *

Cptnvideo

Arizona - most of the time

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Posted: 10/01/23 11:59pm Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

You're welcome to come look at my setup. We'll be in Surprise until the end of October.
See signature in first post for equipment.


Bill & Linda
Arizona
2019 Dodge Ram Laramie 3500 dually 4x4 diesel
Hensley Trailer Saver BD5 hitch
2022 Grand Design Solitude 378MBS
1600 watts solar, Victron 150/100 MPPT controller, GoPower 3kw inverter/charger, 5 SOK 206AH LiFePo4 batteries for 1030 ah

timelinex

AZ

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Posted: 10/02/23 08:05am Link  |  Quote  |  Print  |  Notify Moderator

Cptnvideo wrote:

You're welcome to come look at my setup. We'll be in Surprise until the end of October.
See signature in first post for equipment.


I appreciate the offer, but between 2 little kids, work and getting ready for our next trip....Time is scarce!

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