09 Electrical Features
General Information
There are two electrical systems in your Wayfarer motorhome. These are the 12-volt DC (VDC) system and the 120-volt AC (VAC) system. Most standard appliances require the 120-VAC system, while the majority of the lighting systems used in the Wayfarer use the 12-VDC electrical system.
The electrical power for the 12 VDC system is supplied by the batteries of the Wayfarer. Those batteries are charged by a power converter. The alternator also charges the batteries when the engine is running.
(NOTE: The house batteries switch does not have to be on while the engine is running to receive a charge from the alternator).
The electrical power for the 120V VAC is supplied by the 30AMP shore power cord (Figure 72.2) when the Wayfarer is connected to an external power source or when the on-board electrical generator is in operation.
The inverter can also supply 120V VAC electrical power (to limited outlets and limited appliances). The items on board the Wayfarer that are powered by the inverter are limited to Televisions and the Refrigerator.
CAUTION: Failure to turn off all of the 120V VAC appliances when starting the or stopping the on board electrical generator may damage the transfer switch and/or electrical appliances.
To connect the Wayfarer to an external source of 120V VAC electrical power, it is first recommended that the main 30AMP circuit breaker be placed in the "OFF" position (Figure 73.2). This is done to prevent any power surge upon connecting the motorhome to the external power source.
Unwind the power cord from the electrical compartment located in the in an external compartment (Figure 72.2).
The standard, flexible power cord supplied with the Wayfarer is designed to handle 30AMPS (Amperes). Make sure that the pins in the male end of the plug are oriented correctly so they match the power cable and they are in good condition (i.e., aren't bent or damaged).
If there is a circuit breaker switch at the "plug" end of the power cord (Next to the receptacle), that breaker should be turned "OFF" before making the connection (Figure 70.1). Insert the plug into the mating outlet and then turn the circuit breaker "ON".
Close and lock the electrical compartment door to protect the contents and keep them dry. Closing the compartment door also protects your electrical system from being tampered with while away from your motorhome. Close the cover on the power box, if so equipped, to avoid any unintentional disconnection and to keep the contents clean and dry.
Next, switch the main breaker inside your motorhome to the "ON" position so that the appliances and outlets in your coach receive the 120V VAC electricity needed for use (Figure 73.2).
NOTE: Do not attempt to use any electrical adapters to convert the provided 30AMP power cord, as this will damage electrical components inside of the motorhome.
Electrical Features
When properly connected, the 120 VAC system provides power to all the 120 VAC circuits and outlets when the main breaker is turned “On.”
Circuit Breaker Boxes
For the Wayfarer motorhome, the 120VAC and 12VDC breaker boxes are located in the bedroom (Figure 75.1).
The circuit breakers and fuses are installed to protect the electrical system of the Wayfarer motorhome from any overloads. Do not attempt to change the electrical circuitry or to add appliances yourself.
Please consult an authorized Tiffin Motorhomes Dealership or Tiffin Motorhomes incorporated in Winfield, Alabama to determine whether any changes you desire are appropriate and acceptable.
Tiffin Motorhomes' qualified staff of electricians can readily determine whether any changes sought (e.g., solar, radio, amateur radio, satellite television receiver, personal computer system and the like) are possible or not and can advise you on how best to achieve these enhancements if at all possible.
Please note that the 12VDC fuses and breakers are located in a separate compartment adjoining the 120VAC breakers (Figure 75.2).
Fusing is provided for the following 12VDC CIRCUITS; Refrigerator power, radio power, HD antenna/satellite booster power and thermostat power.
When the ignition is on, the chassis batteries and the house batteries will automatically merge to charge batteries when the motorhome is in operation.
NO SWITCH IS NEEDED
Battery Distribution Center
Your Wayfarer motorhome is equipped with a 12VDC battery distribution center located in the motorhomes battery compartment (Figure 76.3).
The center has a 200AMP main coach disconnect/breaker which will turn off all 12V battery power to the motorhome. There is also a 250AMP and 60AMP fuse which distributes the 12VDC power to components within the motorhome.
When the 200 amp 12 VDC main circuit breaker is shut down or electrically tripped, it must be manually reset. This breaker protects the slide-outs, the AC ignition, the electric step, the 30-amp ignition system, and the 12 VDC disconnect system. As needed, manually reset the circuit breaker or breakers.
Be careful when working around these connections as an accidental electrical short to ground (i.e., momentarily connecting the “positive” or “hot” terminal to any part of the chassis) can be hazardous and harmful.
To access the battery distribution center, open the access panel on the steps (Figure 76.2). When access to the batteries are no longer needed close and securely fasten the access cover to place the steps back into service (Figure 76.1).
Battery Inspection and Care
The motorhome batteries which constitute the 12VDC system are located inside the motorhome entrance step well (Figure 77.1).
To access these batteries, open the access panel on the steps (Figure 77.2). When access to the batteries is no longer needed, close and securely fasten the access cover to place these steps back into service.
When batteries are not used for extended periods of time, they will gradually lose their electrical charge. Therefore, it is necessary periodically to recharge the batteries to increase the operational lives of the batteries. It is also necessary to check the external condition of the batteries on a regular basis.
Look for cracks in the battery case and cover. Check the vent plugs and replace them if they are cracked or broke. Keep the batteries clean. If any accumulation of dirt or acid residue around the battery terminals may provide an electrical path for battery discharge. The areas around the terminals should be cleaned periodically
One can use an old toothbrush and a sparse amount of of diluted solution of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and water (distilled,or deionized is preferred; tap water is acceptable) to clean and neutralize any acidic build up around the battery terminals. If there is any foaming on the top of the battery, this indicates that acidic residues are being neutralized. Rinse the cleaned areas thoroughly with distilled or de-ionized water (tap water is okay as well). Dry the battery cables and terminals to prevent corrosion; to protect those terminal further, use a plastic ignition spray on the terminals. Do not use grease on the terminals, especially on the metal to metal connections as grease may act as an insulator and keep the battery electrical power from entering the cables. Motorhome batteries will either be standard AGM batteries or optional Lithium batteries as shown in (Figure 77.2).
If the batteries are not going to be used for an extended period of time, they can be removed or the battery cables can be disconnected. IT IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED that this service be performed by a qualified service technician as this process is complicated and needs to be followed in precise steps.
The service technician will mark the positive and negative cables respectfully so they can be properly reconnected when you are ready to put your Wayfarer back into service. These batteries will require periodic recharging to maintain their full charge.
Following manufacturers recommendations as found in the Owners Information Package, periodically check the batteries to make sure there has been no change in their physical appearance.
120 Volt (VAC) AC Receptacles
Your Wayfarer motorhome is equipped with several 120V VAC receptacles (Figure 79.1) located throughout the interior of the motorhome.
These 120V VAC receptacles are of the "three prong" variety which the third prong being a grounding pin that provides adequate grounding to one from any electrical shock.
For these receptacles to work properly, do not use an adapter, cheater or an extension cord which defeats the function of the grounding pin.
For the same reason, never remove or bend away the grounding prong or pin from any three prong AC plug so that it would fit a two prong AC receptacle (i.e., an ungrounded AC receptacle). Your Wayfarer motorhome does not contain any two prong 120V VAC receptacles.
Never operate the Wayfarer if there is an electrical short present, as an electrical short may deliver an electrical shock to anyone coming in contact with the exterior of the unit.
If you should feel even the slightest of electrical shock, immediately disconnect the unit from the 120 VAC power source and locate the electrical fault (i.e., typically, it is a break in the grounding circuit).
Do not reconnect the 120 VAC power until after that electrical fault is fixed— the grounding circuit must be continuous from the frame to the distribution panel, to the power cord, and to the earth ground so that electrical-shock protection is realized.
USB Receptacles
The Wayfarer is equipped with USB ports (Figure 80.1) conveniently located in the front dash as well as the living and bedroom areas.
These ports allow for easy access when charging cell phones, iPads, tablets and other computer and gaming peripherals.
Ground-Fault-Circuit-Interrupt Receptacles
In the bath area, there is a 120V VAC GFCI receptacle (Figure 80.2) which provide greater protection against inadvertent electrical shocks.
These specialized GFCI receptacles provide both overload and short circuit protection for the user. All of the electrical receptacles on the "general" branch is GFCI protected through the bathroom GFCI. Consequently, if an appliance plugged into a non GFCI outlet does not have power, check for a tripped GFCI in the bathroom.
All GFCI protected receptacles are marked as such, but only one of them may have the two pushbuttons on the receptacle as shown in (Figure 80.2). The upper pushbutton is a "test" button which can be used to assure that the GFCI is working properly. All one needs to do to test is push the test button.
There will be a momentary "click and the GFCI will be disconnected (i.e., no power is available to any GFCI protected receptacles. To reset this GFCI breaker, push the lower reset button.
These receptacles protect the user from ground faults between an electrically "hot" wire and ground. The GFCI will not reduce the shock hazard if the short is between a neutral and "hot" wire or two "hot load" wires.
GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPT RECEPTACLES (GFCI CONTINUED)
The GFCI should be tested at least once a month and/or when starting a new trip when the motorhome has not been used for a while. The 120V VAC electrical system must be "ON" for the GFCI to be tested.
To test the GFCI the reset button needs to be pushed in fully before starting the test. Push the top test button, this will cause the reset button to pop out which means that the protected circuits have been disconnected. Push the lower reset button back in until a "click" is heard. This will re-activate the protected circuit and in line plugs. If the GFCI is working properly, the reset button will remain in the "in" position.
INVERTER (1000 or 2000 Watts)
Your Wayfarer motorhome comes with a 1000W or 2000W inverter (Figure 81.1) that converts 12VDC power into 12VAC when 12VAC is not available. Check your motorhome build to determine your inverter size.
The inverter can create 120VAC to power the entertainment system (e.g., TV's, Blu-Ray Player and refrigerator) when 120VAC power is not available.
The inverter will transfer or pass 120VAC power to its loads when plugged into 30AMP shore power or when the generator is running.
The inverter switch (Figure 81.2) is located on the central control panel usually located in the bedroom of the motorhome. The switch allows for quick inverter ON/OFF control and a quick indication of the inverters power status.
NOTE: Leaving the switch on for an extended period of time will drain motorhome batteries.
Electrical Generator
Your Wayfarer motorhome is equipped with a 3.2kw diesel generator (Figure 82.1). Your generator is conveniently located in an exterior compartment in your Wayfarer motorhome. Prior to starting or stopping the generator, make sure that all of the 120VAC appliances in your motorhome are turned "OFF".
The generator can be started from either the remote start switch located on the central control panel (Figure 82.2), or directly on the generator itself.
The hour meter located on the central control panel display or on the generator itself is vital for observing necessary maintenance schedules on the generator.
To start the generator from the central control panel:
• Push the red button from Gen OFF to Display ON
• Wait until display is ready
• Push and release the green start button After the generator has been started, wait until the transfer switch has connected before turning "ON" any appliances.
Failure to turn "OFF" the 120VAC appliances when starting or stopping the generator may damage the transfer switch and/or electrical appliances.
Automatic Transfer Switch
The automatic transfer switch (ATS) (Figure 83.1) transfers 120VAC power from the 30AMP shore power cord normal power or generator power to the motorhomes main electrical distribution panel.
The automatic transfer switch has a delay of approximately 5 seconds before switching power to the 30AMP shore power cord and a delay of approximately 30 seconds before switching power to the generator. The automatic transfer switch is located on the drivers side rear most storage compartment.
If the unit is plugged into shore but no power to coach, then make sure the shore outlet has power. If power is present, this may indicate the unit is sensing an open neutral condition. Start the generator, if the power is restored, then either the shore plug or the outlet may be defective (the neutral line may be broken.)
If there is no power to coach from shore or generator, then check the generator circuit breaker. If the circuit breakers are not tripped in the generator or the coach, the transfer box may need to be replaced.
For more detailed information on the automatic transfer switch, please refer to the specific owner’s instructions found in the owner’s information package.
CIRCUIT BREAKERS
The circuit breakers (Figure 84.1) are located in the main 120VAC distribution load center located in the bedroom.
When the circuit breakers are shut down or electrically tripped, they must be manually reset. As needed, manually reset the circuit breakers as shown in (Figure 81.1).
The panel has a main 30AMP breaker which turns off all incoming power to the panels branch breakers. All branch breakers are labeled as to their function. This panel also has 12VDC fuses, which are labeled as to their function.
CONVERTER
A converter is provided as a standard feature on the Wayfarer as part of the main 120-volt power distribution system (Figure 9-11) located in the bedroom breaker/fuse box. This converter takes 120 VAC power and transformers that into 12 VDC power when 120 VAC is available.
The converter will create 12 VDC to charge the house batteries when 120 VAC power is available from either the shoreline or generator power.
FUSES
The electrical circuits protected by the under dash fuse block (Figure 84.2) include; headlights, panel light for dashboard, tail lights, turn signals, cruise control, engine computer, accessory fuses, heater and dash air conditioning.
Additionally, there is another chassis fuse panel which works in conjunction with the chassis fuse panel and provides comparable protection for the above-listed circuits.
For further information, consult the chassis owners manual located in the owners information package.
Located beneath the access panel on the dashboard are two additional fuse panels, the panels protect the following electrical systems; mirrors, optional satellite jacks, camera, optional power windows, dash trim, lighter, map light, optional power seats and radio.
Should there be any electrical failure of these components or systems, the first troubleshooting procedure should be to check the fuses and have available replacements to use on any blown fuses as may be needed.
As an aid to extracting/installing fuses within the fuse blocks, the Wayfarer owners is encouraged to buy an inexpensive fuse puller from an electronic, automotive or hardware store. This tool makes the removal or installation of fuses much easier and prevents inadvertent damage to nearby fuses or the fuse block itself.
SEVEN-PIN TOWING CONNECTOR
Your Wayfarer motorhome is equipped with a standard 7 pin connector near the towing hitch at the rear of the motorhome (Figure 85.1).
The connector supplies the necessary circuitry to control a towed vehicle, trailer or other like item.
The wiring schematics of the connector are shown in (Figure 85.2).
Make sure that any cable from the vehicle to be towed is wired correctly to mate properly with the connections shown in the connector. If in doubt about proper wiring, have a qualified service technician prepare and install the necessary cable to mate with the 7-pin connector on the motor home to assure proper operation subsequently when any vehicle is actually towed by the motorhome.
When the towed vehicle, trailer or like item is uncoupled from the motorhome and the cable is disconnected from the 7 pin connector, be sure to close the spring hinged cover plate on the connector.
This will protect the contact pins from being damaged by dirt or debris. In a similar manner, protect the cable from similar damage weather or debris; one such method could be to place the connector end in a heavy gauge plastic bag and secure the bag tightly around the cable with a stout elastic band or tape. Then mount the secured cable in a manner to keep it from both mechanical damage and water intrusion.
When the towed vehicle, trailer or such item is again coupled to the motorhome via the tow hitch and the cable is again connected to the 7 pin connector, make sure the connection is tight and solid so that the connection wont jar loose during use.
Once secured, check the tail lights, turn signals and brake lights to make sure that the item being towed is mirroring the actions of the motorhomes. (i.e., left turn signal on tow item matches left turn signal on motorhome, right turn signal on item being towed matches right turn signal on motorhome, etc).
Should a conversion adapter to convert the round 7 pin connector to a flat four pin connector be needed, such an adapter can be purchased from any RV, automotive or truck stop after market store.