Dear Dave,
The detachable power cord that came with my camper has a locking ring that is very difficult to attach to the shore power connection on the camper without wanting to cross thread. I have reached out to Forest River and was basically told that was just the way it is due to the cheap plastic and that the threads are so fine. Was wondering if you have any suggestions for resolving this issue. It usually takes several attempts to get it on without cross-threading and I don’t want to damage either the cord or the connection on the camper. Thanks, John
Dear John,
I have fought those things forever, as well. Seems those and the garden hose fitting are my worst enemies. I have known of some owners that replace the entire connection and cord for a more course thread that was easier to attach. However, doing that was during a complete remodel and a little expensive.
Let’s see if anyone has a solution for this to help us both out. Anyone?
Dave Solberg is a leading expert in the RV industry and the author of the “RV Handbook.”
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my trailer just has a 30A connection, with a NEMA 6-30L on the side, that has a bayonet lock ring that seems to work just fine. The other end of the cord is, of course, the usual TT30.
Occasionally use a litte PTFE spray lube on the threads. For example, [3-IN-ONE ® RVcare Window & Track Dry Lube] It is plastic safe and won’t attract dirt. It is advertised as a product to keep RV slide windows from sticking. And use the technique identified by Bob p to reverse turn until you feel the thread ends click into place, then turn carefully to tighten – – and avoid over tightening. You only need to snug it up enough to prevent the the shore power cable from falling off.
I’m with Joseph Testa. Smartplug is the only way to go. They are not cheap but just do it and you will never look back.
Make sure the threads on both sides are clean. With power off, I clean with an old toothbrush, a wee bit of dish soap and water. Then rinse carefully. Still I’m not gonna lie, they are a pain. Someday I may go with the SmartPlug mentioned by others.
The same as Bob😊
I always turn mine backwards (left) until I hear a distinct click where the threads have aligned then slowly turn right to make sure they are mating together. It works every time.
I gave up on those junky spin rings, and replaced it with Smartplug https://smartplug.com/ took sometime to cut off the end of the cord and replace the RV side but best investment ever, no more useless spin dials. Push it clicks in place and done.